Lawrence Park will expand by 16 acres following Kalispell City Council’s approval Monday night of the purchase of a plot of land adjacent to the city park from Knife River for $1.

According to City Manager Doug Russell, the Missoula company decided the land was being underutilized and felt it would be better used as a public space. Russell said issues with seasonal flooding will prevent the added land from being used as open park space, but he envisions a system of nature trails through the forested area.

Though the land is currently in need of some improvements, Russell said there are no plans for immediate work on the property. He hasn’t yet come up with a time frame for when the area will be open for public use.

The property, according to Russell, has also previously encountered problems with trespassers camping out in the area illegally.

Lawrence Park is currently a 118-acre city park off North Main bordered by the Stillwater River. Amenities include a walking path, play equipment, a climbing boulder, picnic areas, a disc golf course and natural open areas.

Knife River will share up to $500 in the closing costs with the city.

Reporter Mary Cloud Taylor can be reached at 758-4459 or mtaylor@dailyinterlake.com.