Design Plan for West Bank Park Moves Forward; Public Ideas Welcome

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By KFBB News Team

Story Published: Jul 22, 2010 at 6:20 PM MDT

Story Updated: Jul 22, 2010 at 6:20 PM MDT

"I think people enjoy seeing the river, and having an opportunity to be near the water, because that's one of our greatest assets," said long-time west side resident Phyllis Hemstad, who attended Wednesday night's "Design Charette" to share her ideas.

Hemstad isn't the only one to see potential in the West Bank Park. The area is the focus of a Parks and Recreation project, funded by a tax increment district, which will pay for a master plan engineered by CTA Architects.

"We want it to be a park that people can use, good for what they need and want," said Patty Rearden with the Great Falls Parks and Recreation Department. "So the more public opinion we can get city-wide, the more we can meet the needs of the community."

The West Bank Park has already been the topic of one public meeting, and Wednesday night's "Design Charette", where the ideas discussed at those two events where presented in today's morning presentation at the Civic Center.

"There's a lot of consistency in the thought, a lot of consistency in what people want to see within the park," said Wayne Freeman of CTA Architects. "A few separate ideas, a few differing ideas and opnions, but not much."

Some of the the ideas presented at the public meetings include everything from a boardwalk, enhanced trails, and even an amphitheater -- all design features that would look out on the Missouri River's grand view.

"This is one of the finest parks in the city, we can host wedding receptions, class reunions, actual weddings, small bands can perform," said Hemstad.

Even details like parking, restrooms, and crosswalks are up for discussion, and a public survey will be sent out in the coming weeks.

And while the ideas are already pouring in, Hemstad hopes more people will join the design process.

"It's their park, it's the people's park, and that's why we're doing it," said Hemstad. "If it belongs to them, then they should come down and see how their money is being spent."

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