Missoula, MT — As Missoula continues to experience rapid population growth, the city is taking steps to ensure its residents have access to more green space. The city has announced plans to build a new park in North Missoula, with construction slated to be completed by spring 2026.
To fund the development of this larger park, the city will sell the existing White Pine Park, located just to the south of the proposed new park site.
Donna Gaukler, Director of Missoula Parks and Recreation, explained the rationale behind the decision. “The city is looking to acquire a larger park space to the north of White Pine Park,” she said. “This new park will have more immediate access for residents, and at nearly twice the size of White Pine, it will better serve the community’s growing needs.”
The new park will be designed to accommodate the increasing population in the area, which has seen substantial growth in recent years. Gaukler emphasized that the new park will offer more space for recreational activities, including areas for sports, walking, and community gardens. Additionally, a ball diamond and community gardens are planned as part of the North Site Annex, located between the new park and the existing ball fields.
According to Gaukler, the park will align with Missoula’s recently adopted land use plan, which anticipates the city’s continued population increase in the coming decades. “The north side park, along with the North Site Annex, should meet the needs for the area’s growth,” she said. “We expect this park to be a valuable asset for residents.”
White Pine Park will remain open to the public throughout the duration of the planning and construction phases. However, once the new park is completed, the existing park will be sold to help fund the development of the larger, more accessible green space.
The new park is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to ensure that Missoula’s recreational infrastructure keeps pace with its population growth, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities and community gathering spaces for residents in North Missoula.
