Community meeting seeks input on proposed outdoor stage in Depot Park

The City of Whitefish Parks and Recreation Department hosts a community meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 6 p.m. to determine if there is community support for exploring a permanent stage for outdoor performances and events in Depot Park.  

Depot Park is a two-acre park located south of the train depot in downtown Whitefish. In 2012, the Depot Park master plan was adopted. It generally recommends open lawn areas and improving views by the removal of the once existing structures. The only permanent structure was to be a gazebo at the southeast corner of the park, and hardscaped areas within the park were to be minimized.  

In April, the city was approached by a community group interested in constructing a permanent stage in Depot Park to be used by event organizers. As a result, the Whitefish Park Board has directed city staff to initiate a robust city-wide community engagement process to determine whether public opinion has changed since the adoption of the 2012 master plan, and whether the community supports a new permanent facility for outdoor performances and events, including new structures and/or additional hardscape.  

The community meeting will be in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of Whitefish City Hall, 418 E. Second Street, at 6 p.m. City staff will present information, facilitate the meeting, and respond to concerns and questions.  

Portions of the presentation will include real-time polling, so people are encouraged to bring a mobile device. 

Visit the project website for more information at engagewhitefish.com.  

For more information, contact long range planner Alan Tiefenbach at [email protected] or 406-863-2413.