Recreation manager outlines swim‑pond, trail projects and NRDP funding

Mr. Patricia, the recreation manager, updated the Libby City Council on multiple recreation projects funded in part by NRDP grants and local partners.

He said the Louis Park district’s functionality has been improved to align with Montana codes, that swim‑pond construction is moving ahead with several items left to complete and that opening dates remain uncertain, and that a port‑authority recreation project is on hold because of litigation involving the Lincoln County Port Authority.

Mr. Patricia described progress on trail work: the lower 4.6 miles from Lee Creek to Deep Creek have a sponsor and bridges on Deep Creek and Smurble Creek are in place; the Norg trail route from Hogan Lane to the Nordic ski course is agreed and awaiting a survey and an easement across DNRC section 16. He said the Pinder Park bike pump track is complete and already in use.

He also described NRDP funding for a two‑year recreation manager position and other project elements and said, "I still have 11,000 left in that account," which he estimated would fund another year to two years of activity. He told council the next steps include coordinating with the Libby Park District and county partners and returning to council with additional details as projects progress.

Councilors asked about summer facilities and the potential for a pump track at Skale/Skidale; Mr. Patricia described what a pump track is and possible siting and amenities but said specifics and opening dates are still to be determined.