Project Summary: Improve park accessibility through a phased pilot project that brings the disability community and park planners together. The project includes an Inclusive Interdisciplinary Walk Move Audit (IIWMA), development of a Trail and Amenity Accessibility Improvement Plan, and implementation. The pilot is currently in Phase II, with disability community feedback integrated throughout all phases.
Status:
Phase I: Complete. IIWMA completed September 20th
Phase II:MSPF contracting with Summit Independent Living to develop an Accessible Trail Improvement Plan for the Harry Horn Trail, Lupine Loop, and waterfront social trail areas. FWP contracting with MCC to complete manual trail improvements identified through the IIWMA and the Accessible Trail Plan, along with deferred maintenance and upgrades such as universally designed door hardware.
Phase III (Future): Implement infrastructure project focused on waterfront access, facilities, and playground improvements.
Timeline: Summer through Fall 2026, with opportunity for longer term involvement.
Committee Member Qualifications: Located near Bigfork, interest in parks and accessibility, willingness to participate in planning activities, willingness to plan and attend event(s) at Wayfarers or in the area, develop and distribute communication materials, and willingness to connect with new supporters.
Responsibilities: This committee will oversee local outreach and fundraising efforts to promote the Wayfarers Accessibility Project, with a committee leader acting as liaison between MSPF board, staff, park staff, and other partners in regards to outreach and fundraising.
Committee Jobs:
- Establish committee and committee leader(s).
- Find additional committee members, preferably local to the region or connected to the project. Committee members do not need to be on the Board of Directors.
- Connect with potential supporters in Bigfork, Flathead area. Could be individuals, businesses or foundations. Refer to Guide for more information.
- Develop communication materials including:
- Photographing work in progress
- Press release
- Social media
- Newsletter
- Hard copy event promotions (flyers, mailers, invitations, etc)
- Plan Wayfarers outreach strategy to take place in Bigfork. Could include
- Tabling at local events (like farmers markets)
- Small events at, like a picnic with information about the project
- Friendraiser, invite-only gathering of potential supporters in a more intimate setting
- Fundraiser event in Bigfork, larger open-to-the public event with fundraising mechanisms, fun and opportunities to learn about MSPF
Interested? Email [email protected] or complete this quick form.
