Helena Seeks Public Input on Open Lands Projects This Winter

The City of Helena’s Parks, Recreation and Open Lands staff on December 4 published a set of project descriptions and public notices for recommended Open Lands major projects and associated trail improvements. The list highlights work on the DeFord Trail, a trail relocation at Oakes Street Park, enhancements to the Nob Hill Park trail system, and improvements along North Benton. City staff posted environmental analyses and links for public comment on the BeHeardHelena portal, and held a listening session to gather feedback.

City officials said feedback provided through the portal and at the listening session will be incorporated into planning and displayed at subsequent open houses, establishing an ongoing cycle of review and community input. The online materials include maps and direct comment submission options, allowing residents who could not attend the meeting to weigh in on alignments, surface materials, and other design choices. The Parks and Recreation office can be reached at 406 447 8463 for specific project questions or to request printed materials.

For Lewis and Clark County residents the projects carry immediate local significance. Trail relocations and upgrades can change access routes for walkers and cyclists, influence parking patterns near parks, and alter habitat buffers in neighborhood green spaces. Environmental analyses posted with the projects will inform whether mitigation measures for erosion, vegetation, or wildlife are needed before construction proceeds. Residents living near DeFord, Nob Hill, North Benton or Oakes Street Park will want to review the maps and comment on impacts to privacy, noise, or trail safety.

The City’s page remains a standing planning resource where project lists and contact information are maintained. Maps and comment links are available through the BeHeardHelena portal at helenamt.gov/All-News/City-to-Host-Open-Lands-Major-Projects-Listening-Session-Dec.-2025. As planning moves forward the city intends to publish updated analyses and to present revisions at open houses so community input continues to shape final designs.