Col. Falls seeking money for trail work

The city of Columbia Falls is looking at ways to fund improvements to River’s Edge Park.

The city plans to submit a grant proposal to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Recreation Trails Program requesting support for trail building in the park.

City staff and the park’s advisory committee recommend constructing a path along the north edge of the park to allow for pedestrian and maintenance vehicle access. The route would run from the parking lot to the northeast corner of the park.

Finance Director Susan Nicosia said the path could be gravel or asphalt depending on cost and funding levels. The path would be 3 to 5 feet wide and handicap-accessible.

The grant program has three funding levels: $20,000, $35,000 and $70,000. A 50 percent match from the city would be required.

The city will ask for money at one of the two lower levels, Nicosia said.

Nine sections of path are planned for the park. The city would like to develop the trail system in the future as funding becomes available.

The City Council took a first look at the grant application Monday.

Comments on the proposed trail plan will be accepted through June 8. For more information, call City Hall at 892-4391.

Also on Monday, the council:

n Approved the second reading of a zoning text amendment to allow for welcome signs at the entrances to the city.

n Approved a resolution of intent to sell a vehicle to another political subdivision. The fire department is selling a command vehicle that is no longer needed.

n Voted to approve the Northwest Drug Task Force agreement for 2010-11.

n Set a workshop meeting for Monday, May 24 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. The council plans to discuss ideas for future planning and improvements to the city.