Helena Seeks Public Input on 2026 Open Lands Projects

The City of Helena will host an open house at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15 in Room 426 of the City-County Building and online via Zoom at us02web.zoom.us/j/82900219404 to present final proposed Open Lands major projects for 2026 and accept public comment. City staff will outline the recommended projects and the environmental analysis that accompanies each proposal.

The recommended projects under consideration include Deford Trail Improvements, Oakes Street Park Trail Relocation, Nob Hill Park Trail System Improvements, and North Benton Trail Improvements. Residents may review the project descriptions, environmental analysis, and public comment submitted to date at beheardhelena.com. Public comment can be submitted on the Be Heard Helena project page or by emailing parksandrec@helenamt.gov now through Feb. 2.

These projects focus on trail alignments, safety, and park trail networks within the city limits. For Lewis and Clark County residents who use Helena’s green spaces for commuting, exercise, dog walking, and family recreation, the proposed changes could alter access patterns and local trail maintenance responsibilities. The environmental analyses posted online provide the technical basis for design choices and are available for community review before the comment period closes.

City staff have opened multiple channels for participation for those unable to attend in person. The Zoom link above provides remote access to the Jan. 15 presentation and comment session, and more information is available by contacting the City of Helena Parks and Recreation Department at 406-447-8463 or parksandrec@helenamt.gov. Written comments submitted through the Be Heard Helena page or by email will be considered alongside testimony delivered at the open house.

Public engagement at this stage can influence final design decisions and scheduling for construction or phased improvements. For local neighborhoods adjacent to the named projects, the proposals will be of immediate practical concern, while for the broader community they tie into Helena’s long-standing stewardship of open lands and the role of outdoor amenities in local quality of life and the regional recreation economy. The City encourages residents to review materials online and participate in the Jan. 15 forum or submit comments before the Feb. 2 deadline.