Columbia Heights RV park proposed

A Kalispell couple have plans to develop a 62-space recreational vehicle park at Columbia Heights.

Toby and Jessica Gilchrist are seeking preliminary plat approval for Glacier Gateway RV Resort, planned on 13.3 acres about one mile north of the intersection of Montana 206 and U.S. 2 E. Monte Vista Way borders the property.

The project is undergoing planning review as a subdivision for lease or rent. The property is zoned scenic corridor and would be served by public water and sewer systems, according to the application.

The developers seek two variances.

One variance would exempt the Gilchrists from paving internal roads at the RV park, although the private access drive would be paved. A dust control plan indicates the owners would enforce slow speeds and provide water, magnesium chloride, oils or other approved measures to control dust.

The Gilchrists also are asking for a variance to a condition requiring a 15-foot easement adjacent to U.S. 2 because there’s an existing home in that area. The Montana Department of Transportation is willing to grant an easement for a path between the home and U.S. 2, according to planning documents.

The Flathead County Planning Board is scheduled to conduct a public hearing on the RV park proposal at its Dec. 11 meeting.