Long-awaited access being built

Public access to scenic Lake Five near West Glacier finally is going to become a reality this year.

After more than six years of legal and administrative delays, construction is expected to wrap up in late summer or early fall on the long-awaited access.

The fishing access — reached by an 800-foot gravel road off Belton Stage Road — will be built on a 10-acre parcel donated to the state seven years ago.

The access will become a reality because a settlement between Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and Lake Five property owners finally ends a marathon of environmental assessments, appeals and litigation.

This wasn’t an easy process, but in the end the public will benefit by being able to enjoy this beautiful lake.

WHITEFISH MOUNTAIN RESORT found a way to turn a lemon into lemonade and save its summer season.

After the resort’s main scenic lift to the summit of Big Mountain was closed indefinitely when a soil slump put one of the lift towers out of alignment, resort officials regrouped to offer Chair Two instead for scenic rides and lift access for mountain bikes.

Seasonably warm weather this week (finally!) has melted much of the snow at the summit, making way for lush vegetation and wildflowers on the slopes.

With summer finally at hand, visitors and locals alike should head up and partake of the resort’s many amenities, including the unique Walk in the Treetops, Zip Line tours and Alpine Slide.

IF YOU'RE HEADING to Whitefish, make a mental note to put away your hand-held cellphones.

The Whitefish City Council recently voted to ban drivers from using hand-held devices within city limits.

The new law takes effect in mid-September and tourism promoters have asked police officers to “use a light hand” in enforcing the cellphone ban until promoters have had a chance to publicize the change.

Whitefish doesn’t stand alone in its quest to make the roadways safer by banning hand-held cellphones.

Missoula, Billings and Butte are other Montana cities that have passed similar laws.

We all know that cellphone use and driving can be a dangerous combination. It’s too bad cities have to regulate what really should be common sense.