The Missoula Downtown Foundation invites members of the press and public to join in a celebration of the newly completed Riverfront Terrace Project. This event marks the official opening of improved ADA access to the Clark Fork River at Brennan’s Wave, an achievement made possible through collaboration and community vision.

The ribbon cutting will take place on Thursday, June 12, starting promptly at 5:15 PM at the Caras Park stage, located at 123 Carousel Drive in Downtown Missoula.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The evening will start with remarks from Mayor Andrea Davis and Rob Fleming, Missoula Downtown Foundation Board President. Their words will honor the partnership that brought this project to life and reflect on the importance of creating inclusive public spaces that benefit both the community and the natural environment.

Attendees are invited to enjoy ice cream from Big Dipper and a celebratory toast with Cranky Sam’s Brennan’s Wave beer. The celebration will transition seamlessly into Downtown ToNight, featuring live music by Blue Point and activities for the whole community to enjoy.

The $1.68 million dollar project was primarily funded by a $1.2 million dollar grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration. Project partners include the City of Missoula Parks and Recreation, the Missoula Redevelopment Agency, and the Missoula Downtown Foundation. Additional funding was provided by the Missoula Redevelopment Agency, the 2018 Open Space Bond Funds, the Park Maintenance fund, and the Missoula Downtown Foundation.

This initiative is part of the larger Clark Fork River Restoration and Access Project, which seeks to restore riverbanks and improve access for river users in Downtown Missoula. Caras Park was identified as a primary location for providing reinforced river access due to its popularity for events and gatherings and proximity to Brennan’s Wave, downtown amenities, parks, and trails.

“After years of planning and collaboration, we are thrilled to open the Clark Fork River Access to the public,” said Nathan McLeod, Senior Landscape Architect at Missoula Parks and Recreation. “This improved access in Caras Park creates new opportunities for people of all abilities to connect with the Clark Fork River and serves as a cornerstone of our broader efforts to restore the riverbanks in Downtown Missoula.”

This ribbon cutting celebrates more than a physical transformation. It represents a shared commitment to access, sustainability, and community pride in one of Missoula’s most beloved spaces.

Members of the media are welcome to attend. Interviews with speakers and project partners will be available before the event. To schedule interviews or request more information, please contact Linda McCarthy at [email protected] or Nathan McLeod at [email protected].