Comprehensive Planning
The Comprehensive Planning section oversees the development and implementation of the City of Great Falls Growth Policy, and other neighborhood, and small area planning initiatives and projects. Through community input, analysis of demographic, economic, and social data, and the use of mapping technology, the Comprehensive Planning section creates the vision and develops the plans and policies to guide future growth and development in Great Falls.
Growth Policy
Development and implementation of the Great Falls Growth Policy is the major focus of this Section. The 1999 Comprehensive Plan received minor updates in 2003 and 2005 for the purpose of compliance with Montana Growth Policy Laws.
Downtown Master Plan
The Downtown Master Plan, adopted by the Great Falls City Commission in October 2011 as an attachment to the 2005 Growth Policy, provides a strategically focused, goal driven "blueprint" for the future growth and development of Downtown. The plan builds upon the assets and advantages of Downtown as the cultural and civic center of Great Falls, with its historic buildings, parks and open spaces and proximity to the Missouri River. As a center of employment, commerce, shopping, dining and entertainment, and host to numerous community and special events throughout the year, Downtown is uniquely situated to become the heart of Great Falls. The primary goal of the Plan is to facilitate the creation of a Downtown that is more active, vibrant, accessible and livable.
Missouri River Urban Corridor Plan (8.36Mb PDF)
In the spring of 2004, a Corridor Plan for lands adjoining the Missouri River in the core of the Great Falls urban area was completed. The Plan reviews the existing conditions along the River and provides a new vision for the corridor. The main intent of the Plan is to encourage sustainable redevelopment that allows for a more vital, accessible riverfront, while at the same time restoring and conserving the natural amenities of riverfront lands.
Medical District Master Plan (1.59Mb PDF)
The Great Falls Medical District Master Plan, adopted by the City Commission January 2007, creates a vision for the expansion and provision of future medical and health care facilities. The plan reflects collaboration between major medical providers, adjacent property owners, neighborhood councils, and the City of Great Falls, and focuses on reinvestment, redevelopment and growth within the Medical District to increase interest in the area for living, working and business investment.
Contacts:
Brant Birkeland
Comprehensive Planner
406-455-8428