The public is invited to take a look at the concept drawings for the proposed Lakeside Shoreline Park and comment at the library in Lakeside.
The plan, drawn by Bruce Boody of Landscape Architects in Whitefish, will be up for public viewing through Sept. 30.
The park would boast 190 feet of uninterrupted waterfront as its key characteristic, according to its creators, Margaret Davis and her husband, Bruce Ennis. Davis said her husband grew up in Kalispell and always had affection for the valley.
“Even before we moved back to this area, we’d always thought that there was a real shortage of accessible lakefront,” Davis said.
Davis said they are still trying to figure out how to transfer the property to public ownership with Flathead County Parks and Recreation. But because of the department’s financial limitations, Davis said she and her husband will take the plan as far as possible before the county takes control.
There has been some opposition to the proposed park from nearby neighbors who “aren’t too thrilled” with the idea, Davis said, but there is open communication.
After Ennis purchased the Bayshore Motel in July, the waterfront area expanded to 190 feet, including Flathead County’s existing boat ramp and public dock at Adams Street. Portions of the motel may be used for a community center and restrooms, Davis said.
The park would be for day use only, with a paved parking lot for passenger vehicles only. There will not be room for RVs or trailer-towing vehicles. Davis said they hope to open the park in 2010.
Anyone wishing to view or comment on the proposed plan can visit the West Shore Community Library at 100 Bierney Creek Road in Lakeside. The library is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and can be reached at (406) 844-3917.