Area communities receive state tourism grants

Several Northwest Montana communities will get a share of nearly $830,000 in state grants for tourism and recreation infrastructure and marketing project.

Funds totaling $829,644 will be awarded to 26 communities through the Tourism Grant Program at the Montana Department of Commerce, Office of Tourism and Business Development.

The program awards funds to projects that strengthen Montana’s economy through the development and enhancement of the state’s tourism and recreation industry. Eligible projects include arts, culture and heritage preservation; visitor facility upgrades and construction; and niche product development.

- Conrad Mansion Museum in Kalispell was awarded $12,000 to preserve the integrity of the historic home through the replacement of worn carpet and carpet runners.

- Lakeside-Somers Chamber of Commerce will receive $2,500 to complete upgrades on an outdoor tourism information center and to install a wire/pulley system above the highway for banners/signage.

- Heritage Museum in Libby was awarded $26,704 to complete the restoration of the “fire box” for the original boiler of the 1906 Shay No. 4 steam locomotive.

- Kootenai Cross Country Ski Club in Libby will receive $43,144 to construct a multipurpose visitor and event center.

- Miracle of America Museum in Polson was awarded $10,288 to replace clapboard siding on the 106-year-old Green Mountain School House and to enhance the playground.

- The city of Whitefish and Whitefish Legacy Partners will receive $20,000 to add to the wayfinding network throughout the developed Whitefish Trail bike path system.