Missoula’s Latest Park Project Has a Spooky Twist

A slight new splash of green and maybe a spooky encounter is on the way for Missoula’s northside. Inland city planners cleared the way for a new public park on land purchased from the Resurrection Cemetery Association. But FEAR NOT, this site was never used for actual burials, so none of the spirits will be disturbed in the process.

“Forbidden Ground”

The city recognized that it had the chance to redevelop this unused cemetery land into a desperately needed park where residents could meet, play and even get their hands dirty. Park access can be limited in this part of town, so the relocation makes sense. Also, the land was wasted, waiting for a new future, why not allow it to be a happy community space or perhaps a place for the kids?

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Thanks to Missoula’s City Council’s approving a project funding request. The land had been designated for burials, but since it had never been used, it was the perfect candidate for redevelopment. This enables existing operations at the cemetery to continue undisturbed and allows residents in the north side to contribute a new public space for enjoyment.

While some may scoff at the idea of a park growing out of cemetery land, it’s a practical idea. You don’t get a park with a built-in ghost story every day. But let’s face it, Missoula wouldn’t be Missoula without a dash of folklore. I can already hear someone tell a story of a ghost swing.