A proposal for a new RV park outside the western entrance of Glacier National Park goes before Flathead County Commissioners Friday.
Commissioners heard the plan from a company called Glacier Park Inc. (GPI) to build a campground with 102 recreational vehicle spaces and 25 rental cabins near the village of West Glacier on Tuesday, May 16, but held off on making a final decision so they could learn more about potential impacts to traffic.
"I think we do need to think about the health, safety and welfare of the area in terms of what the community wants. I think that needs to try to be addressed to a point, and I think we're trying to do that," says Gary Krueger, chairman of the Flathead County Commission.
Thirty-seven people attended Tuesday’s meeting and 10 West Glacier residents spoke in opposition of the plan, citing impacts to traffic, wildlife, water quality, and light, sound and air pollution. Many of these arguments were also voiced at a planning board meeting last month.
The location of the proposed campground falls in line with county growth regulations for the area adopted in 1994.
Glacier Park Inc. says it will also build a new water and sewer system, as well as a public pedestrian path, for the development. The company owns and operates several of the park’s historic lodges and hotels, as well as other shops and services.
Commissioners will meet on Friday at 9:00 a.m. to further discuss and vote on GPI’s proposal. There will be a 15-minute public comment period prior to the discussion. Written comment will also be accepted prior to the meeting.
