A recent briefing from University of Montana administrators who are gearing up to plan expansion of the campus left us mindful of the potential for a clash with the community. Missoulians and the university alike would likely benefit from a coordinated effort to consider the needs and implications of future expansion.
UM has room to grow toward the south. The UM Golf Course, Dornblaser Field and adjacent acreage provide ample room for new academic buildings, student housing and additional athletic facilities. UM President George Dennison already calls it “South Campus,” not “golf course.”
Although the property in question is part of the university, many Missoulians see it and use it as public domain. The golf course has a fiercely loyal constituency of duffers, and many Missoulians view and use the property as open space and a park. UM is in the process of possibly acquiring Highlands Golf Course in the South Hills with the idea of maintaining whatever commitment to public golfing opportunities the community expects of its higher education system. Don't be surprised, however, if Missoulians express a decided preference for the existing UM Golf Course, not someplace else to golf. Indeed, anyone preferring Highlands probably already is golfing there, and that golf course doesn't support the diversity of public use or provide the same linkage to public open space on Mount Sentinel as the UM property does.
UM is a vital part of Missoula. The institution, its students and faculty, and the energy and activity they create are integral to our community. UM's need to grow and its overall success are matters of community - and statewide - interest.
UM can do all the facility planning it wants, but it'll be for naught if it leads to public uprising. Missoulians might battle the university and its efforts to grow, but they could hamstring the institution and diminish the quality of life in the community over the long-term.
Let us suggest that, instead of UM launching its planning effort only to risk later public backlash, the city and university combine efforts to plan UM's expansion. The mayor and Missoula City Council and university should go beyond mere consultation and formally cooperate in this planning. We'd still expect some controversy, but also see much benefit from those in town and gown gazing at the big picture together.
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