Funding approved for next round of amenities at Somers Beach State Park

The State Parks and Recreation Board voted unanimously Tuesday to release the remainder of the $2 million available for the further development of Somers Beach State Park, which opened last year.

After a brief presentation by Hope Stockwell of the Parks and Recreation Division at Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the board approved the cost associated with proposed amenities to the park, which have already undergone public scoping and comments.

According to Stockwell, this is the second round of developments for the site after the state acquired the property in October 2021. The proposed improvements include paving the road entrance and the existing parking lot, adding double vault latrines, adding two host sites, the creation of a small administration building, adding three rustic cabins on the park’s west side and completing more dynamic beach work.

If funds are still available, the agency will potentially add a hand launch site for non-motorized watercraft and a picnic area.

After looking at funding and public comments, the agency is nixing the installation of flush toilets, an entry station, a playground and hiking or biking trails.

The money was authorized by the 2021 Montana Legislature and public donations made through the Montana State Parks Foundation and the Flathead Land Trust, according to the final Environmental Assessment.

A timeline for the project has not yet been released.

Reporter Kate Heston can be reached at kheston@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4459.