Georgia's Place Under a Big Sky

Reflections from the Rural Retreat in Great Falls, Montana

From June 23 through 25, The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) held their inaugural Rural Retreat in Great Falls, Montana. This retreat provided me with an enriching experience filled with insightful activities and engaging discussions with more than 400 community and economic developers from across the country, here are a few of my takeaways from the event.

Recognition of the Little Shell Tribe

One of the highlights was learning about the federal recognition of the Little Shell Tribe in 2019. It was fascinating to understand their journey and the cultural significance it holds. Additionally, we explored their food pantry, Miijim, and how it serves members of the tribe throughout Western Montana. We also learned how the Little Shell Tribe supports economic development, through both traditional business development activities, visitor attractions, and housing development. These activities are aimed at fostering both community welfare and economic growth.

Redevelopment Plans Along the Missouri River

The retreat shed light on the ambitious redevelopment efforts along the Missouri River which includes revitalizing the former Milwaukee train station. Built in 1915, the station served as the rail hub for the area. After rail traffic declined, the building became a mall and then an office building.

Today, the property has since been redeveloped into “The Station,” the area’s first “work, play, live" complex, including a food hall and a 120-unit apartment building. On the west banks of the Missouri, developers undertook one of the largest Brownfield projects in Montana history to convert a declining industrial area and urban corridor to attract new hotels, restaurants, professional office space and a federal courthouse. This development is connected to the city’s network of parks and walking trails which are adorned with plenty of benches, a playground, and even a self-serve kayak “vending machine” where trail-goers can rent and launch kayaks into the river.

Workforce Solutions: Medical Education + Housing

Recognizing the need to address workforce shortages in the medical field throughout rural Montana, the Great Falls Community came together to address critical challenges in the medical workforce by attracting Turo University Osteopathic Medical School. At full enrollment, this school will graduate upwards of 135 new doctors per year, with the goal that new graduates will stay and practice in the Great Falls area.

As a tool to enhance the area's workforce, the community also examined housing availability. By working with the local Realtors’ Association, they discovered the community had only a one-month housing supply and that demand had shifted from an even split to 40% own and 60% rent.

To help address this need, the Great Falls community commissioned comprehensive housing assessments to identify what areas of the community would be best suited for new housing developments, make the case to developers of the type of housing needed, the number of units required and the cost that the local market can bear. These initiatives are not only paving the way for sustainable development but for the attraction of new residents to help meet the workforce needs of the region.

Mural Program Adorning Downtown Walls

Each year, artists are welcomed to the community for one week to paint murals on the side of buildings throughout the downtown area. These murals provide creative focal points to more than 50 buildings, alleyways, and parking areas. This artistic initiative not only beautifies the city but also tells the stories of its rich heritage and dynamic community spirit. Each mural is a unique piece of art that adds color and character to Great Falls, making the city a more attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.

Revitalization efforts have also benefited additional properties in downtown Great Falls, including converting former bank space into an upscale restaurant and Class A office space, development of an aging office building into the headquarters of Goodwill in Great Falls, and the reimagining of a former used furniture store and horse stalls into a boutique hotel and restaurant.

Wrapping It Up

Throughout the retreat, we heard from visionaries and thought leaders from other parts of the country who each had big dreams and plans for their communities. Their consistent message: “Dream Big and Start!”

The Rural Retreat in Great Falls was an eye-opening experience that showcased the remarkable efforts being made to enhance the community’s cultural, economic, and social landscapes. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate and look forward to sharing lessons learned with Georgia communities.