Beartracks Underbridge Transformation; New Painted Dumpsters Rolling Out March 14
BEARTRACKS UNDERBRIDGE TRANSFORMATION; New Painted Dumpsters Rolling Out March 14
What was once a dreary parking lot beneath the Beartracks Bridge has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two years, evolving into a vibrant community space filled with activity, color, and creativity for all of the Missoula community.
So far, the Beartracks Underbridge Playspace has welcomed a variety of improvements, including a basketball hoop, picnic tables, bike racks, table tennis, and cornhole boards. Adding to its now vibrant atmosphere, local artist Ann Karp of Sideways Gaze has transformed the space with stunning artwork, painting both the ground and pillars with bold, eye-catching designs that truly brighten the space.
The latest addition to this revitalization effort is a particularly unexpected one: the transformation of the Caras Park dumpsters into works of art. Karp has reimagined these everyday objects, breathing new life into them with vibrant colors and eye-catching designs. As they receive their final protective coating, the newly adorned dumpsters will officially “roll out” in mid-March, marking the launch of the 2025 Spring Caras Canopy Campaign.
This year’s campaign will raise funds to replace the pavilion canopy in beloved Caras Park. The canopy has sheltered Missoula’s community events for 28 years. The initiative will also support a fresh coat of paint for the structure and future enhancements for the Beartracks Underbridge Playspace, ensuring the space continues to grow as a hub of creativity and community. To learn more and donate go to https://www.missouladowntown.com/missoula-downtown-foundation/donate/
Community members and visitors are encouraged to walk by and witness the evolution of this once-overlooked space. Continued enhancements include the addition of colored lighting elements, a climbing bay, and a skate feature, ensuring that Beartracks Underbridge continues to grow as a dynamic and engaging community destination for all ages to enjoy for years to come.
For more information about the Beartracks Underbridge Playspace and art, please contact DMP Program Director, Amber Gagen via email at [email protected] or via phone at (406) 543-4238.