City of Missoula set to ink development agreement for Riverside Trail easement

The city approved an agreement with a team of developers on Wednesday, clearing the slate for what could become the first multi-story project to land in the Riverfront Triangle in downtown Missoula.

The agreement with Wise Enterprise Group protects a ribbon of right-of-way along the Clark Fork River for a planned extension of the Riverside Trail. The 20-foot easement would connect with West Broadway and run east behind the property, eventually connecting with the city's trail system.

“The trail easement in the development agreement is for the extension of the Riverfront Trail along the river, which includes the southern frontage of the property,” said city planner Kaitlin McCafferty. “The development agreement addresses construction and maintenance of the Riverfront Trail.

The City Council in September approved a rezone request, allowing for a wider variety of commercial and housing uses on the property while permitting taller structures in accordance with the downtown district.

Wise Enterprise, represented by WGM Group, hasn't detailed its plans for the parcel other than to say it will likely include a mix of uses, including retail and housing. A parking structure is planned at grade to serve residents of the property.

The project would be the first to break ground within the Riverfront Triangle.

“The site has been vacant for years,” the development team noted in its package. “The area is in transition with development plans for the Riverfront Triangle and the expansion of Providence.”

https://missoulacurrent.com/business/2020/09/rezone-riverfront-triangle/