Ronan Tourism

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Downtown Ronan Energy Audits

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Planning for Efficient, Resilient Main Street Buildings

Energy audits that reduce operating costs and prepare downtown properties for future investment

WHAT it is

The Downtown Ronan Energy Audits project completes ASHRAE Level 2 Energy Audits for three Main Street buildings at:

  • 330 Main Street SW
  • 229 Main Street SW
  • 426 Main Street SW

Professional engineering assessments evaluate energy use, mechanical and electrical systems, and operational practices, producing prioritized recommendations for each property.

HOW it works

Each building receives a detailed audit report outlining cost-effective improvements, from low-cost operational fixes to larger capital upgrades.

The audits also prepare owners to pursue future funding opportunities, including federal and state energy efficiency programs, without disrupting existing tenants.

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WHY it matters

High energy costs strain older downtown buildings and limit business stability and reinvestment.

Reduces Operating Costs

Energy audits identify practical ways to lower utility expenses, helping downtown businesses remain affordable and competitive.

Strengthens Business Stability

Lower overhead costs support tenant retention, reinvestment, and long-term use of Main Street buildings.

Prepares for Future Funding

Audit reports provide the technical documentation needed to pursue state and federal energy efficiency programs.

Supports a Sustainable Downtown

Efficient, comfortable buildings contribute to year-round operation and a more resilient downtown environment for residents and visitors.

Energy efficiency strengthens Main Street even when the improvements are not immediately visible.

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How to Apply

The Downtown Ronan Energy Audits are led by Purpose Project LLC with technical assistance from Mission West Community Development Partners.

Funding supports planning work that unlocks future reinvestment, reduces costs, and strengthens the long-term viability of downtown buildings.

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Whitepine Grange Covered Picnic Pavilion

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Whitepine Grange Covered Picnic Pavilion

Fresh Air, Shared Tables, and Rural Connection

A covered outdoor gathering space that expands events, welcomes travelers, and strengthens rural tourism in Sanders County.

Learn About the Project

WHAT it is

The Whitepine Grange Covered Picnic Pavilion project adds a 16’ x 20’ covered outdoor pavilion adjacent to the historic Whitepine Grange Hall in Trout Creek, Montana. Designed as a flexible, multi-use space, the pavilion supports community meals, classes, reunions, fundraisers, and tourism-oriented events that benefit from being held outdoors.

Located directly along the Highway 200 corridor, the pavilion also serves as a welcoming stop for travelers, cyclists, and tour groups, offering shade, shelter, and an invitation to engage with local culture rather than simply pass through.

This project strengthens an existing rural tourism asset rather than creating a new venue from scratch.

HOW it works

The pavilion expands Whitepine Grange’s event capacity by enabling simultaneous indoor and outdoor programming and improving comfort during gatherings of all sizes. The covered structure provides weather protection, accessibility, and seasonal flexibility, allowing events to run longer and accommodate more participants.

Whitepine Grange already hosts multi-day educational seminars, agricultural workshops, conferences, bike tours, craft retreats, dances, and regional gatherings that attract visitors from across Montana and multiple states. The pavilion allows these events to scale while maintaining the site’s rural character.

WHY it matters

Whitepine Grange is a proven destination where visitors stay for multiple days, return year after year, and contribute directly to the local economy through lodging, food, fuel, retail, and services.

Expands Rural Event Capacity

The covered pavilion makes it possible to host larger gatherings and run indoor and outdoor programming at the same time, extending the season and increasing flexibility for events.

Strengthens Rural Tourism

By supporting educational retreats, workshops, and regional gatherings, the pavilion enhances Whitepine Grange’s role as a destination that draws visitors from across Montana and beyond.

Encourages Highway-Based Stops

Located along Highway 200, the pavilion provides a shaded, welcoming place for travelers, cyclists, and tour groups to stop, rest, and engage with the community.

Community-Led and Sustainable

Designed for low maintenance and long-term use, the pavilion builds on decades of local stewardship and strengthens an asset that already serves residents and visitors alike.

This modest but catalytic investment expands capacity without changing character and strengthens a destination already in motion.

Hows It Funded?

The Whitepine Grange Covered Picnic Pavilion is led by Friends of Whitepine Grange in partnership with Mission West Community Development Partners and regional tourism organizations.

Funding supports construction of the pavilion as part of a broader effort to strengthen rural tourism infrastructure, expand event capacity, and enhance visitor experience in Sanders County.

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Sanders County Fairgrounds Infrastructure Improvements

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Safer Seating. Stronger Events. A Resilient Regional Hub.

Critical infrastructure upgrades that protect one of Sanders County’s most important tourism and community assets.

Visit The Fairgrounds Website

WHAT it is

The Sanders County Fairgrounds Infrastructure Improvements project focuses on essential safety, accessibility, and durability upgrades at one of the county’s most heavily used public venues.

The project includes two priority improvements:

  • Replacement of the aging wooden catwalk between the grandstands and bleachers with a durable, all-metal stair and platform system
  • Renovation of the south bleachers through plank replacement, metal restoration, and protective resealing

Together, these upgrades ensure continued safe use during large-scale public events.

HOW it works

The project modernizes existing infrastructure without expanding the fairgrounds footprint. Replacing deteriorated materials with durable metal systems improves safety, accessibility, and long-term reliability for events that draw large crowds.

These improvements support fairs, rodeos, concerts, livestock shows, festivals, youth events, and regional gatherings that attract visitors from across western Montana and neighboring states.

WHY it matters

The Sanders County Fairgrounds functions as a year-round regional destination supporting tourism, agriculture, youth development, and community life.

Improves Visitor Safety

Replacing aging seating and circulation infrastructure reduces risk and ensures safe movement for large crowds during high-attendance events.

Enhances Accessibility

Durable, modern stair and seating systems improve comfort and usability for families, seniors, and event attendees of all age

Protects a Regional Event Hub

These upgrades preserve the fairgrounds’ ability to host fairs, rodeos, concerts, and festivals that attract visitors from across the region.

Maximizes Existing Investment

By extending the life of current facilities, the project protects prior public investments and avoids the cost of expansion or replacement.

Protecting this working destination ensures Sanders County can continue hosting signature events that drive local spending and regional visibility.

How to Apply

The Infrastructure Improvements project is part of ongoing reinvestment in the Sanders County Fairgrounds to maintain safety, accessibility, and economic impact.

Funding supports targeted upgrades that directly enhance visitor experience and protect the fairgrounds’ role as a regional event hub.

Find Out More

Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

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Ronan Co-op Brewery – A Tourism Asset  

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Brewing Community, Building Main Street

Ronan Cooperative Brewery is upgrading its space to be a stronger tourism draw, a safer gathering place, and a centerpiece of downtown revitalization.

Visit the Brewery

WHAT it is

The Ronan Cooperative Brewery (RCB) is undertaking a series of infrastructure and aesthetic improvements through funding from the Montana Pilot Community Tourism Grant Program. These upgrades will make the brewery more welcoming, accessible, and visible while preserving the historic Masonic Lodge building it calls home.

HOW it works

The project includes:

Building Preservation: Roof repairs to protect the structure and ensure long-term use.

Façade Enhancements: New illuminated signage, awnings, and outdoor seating through the Ronan Façade Improvement Grant Program.

Accessibility & Safety: ADA ramp improvements, added bike racks, and upgraded lighting.

Event & Hospitality Upgrades: A centralized audio-visual system for community events and expanded refrigeration for take-home products.

Frequently Asked questions

WHY it matters

Upgrading the Ronan Cooperative Brewery isn’t just about improving a building—it’s about strengthening downtown’s heartbeat. These changes create a safer, more welcoming space for residents and visitors, boost tourism through unique cultural experiences, and reinforce the brewery’s role as a community-owned anchor business. Every improvement helps make Main Street more vibrant, accessible, and economically resilient.

Main Street Revitalization

Activating outdoor space, upgrading the façade, and improving safety directly enhance the look and feel of Ronan’s downtown, blending historic preservation with fresh energy.

Better Access for Everyone

New bike racks and an ADA-compliant entrance make the brewery more welcoming to all residents and visitors, aligning with the city’s walkability and inclusion goals.

Preserves Tourism Impact

With more than 650 cooperative members across 32 states, RCB draws both locals and craft beer tourists. Upgrades help attract more visitors, expand reach, and create reasons to stay longer in Ronan.

Community-Owned Resilience

As a cooperative, RCB reinvests in its members and town. These improvements strengthen the brewery’s ability to serve as a cultural hub and anchor business for Main Street.

Apply Today!

Get Involved

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a supporter of downtown revitalization, or someone who loves community-owned businesses, there are ways to be part of RCB’s growth. Stop in for a pint, attend an event, or become a co-op member.

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Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

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Project Template

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Walkability Study & Pathway Development (Phase 1)

From new pathways to better lighting and a citywide transportation plan, this project is making it easier and safer to walk, bike, and roll through our community.

Take The Survey

WHAT it is

Mission West Community Development Partners and the City of Ronan are working together to improve active transportation in town. The work includes a new 3rd Avenue NW pathway, a lighting plan to make it safer after dark, and a Non-Motorized Transportation Plan to guide future investments in walking and biking infrastructure.

HOW it works

3rd Avenue Pathway Design: Plans for an 8-foot-wide, ADA-compliant asphalt path connecting schools, the Community Center, athletic fields, the Boys & Girls Club, and US Highway 93

Pathway Lighting Design: A full lighting system plan to improve visibility and safety in evening and early morning hours

Non-Motorized Transportation Plan: A community-driven plan that identifies gaps, priorities, and opportunities for sidewalks, trails, and bike routes across Ronan

Download The Plan

WHY it matters

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Safer travel for students, families, and visitors

Well-designed pathways and lighting reduce conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. This means kids can get to school more safely, families can enjoy walking to local events, and visitors can explore with more confidence.

Easier connections between neighborhoods, schools, parks, and downtown

Linking key destinations with safe, continuous routes makes it simpler for everyone to get around without a car. Whether it’s walking to the fairgrounds, biking to the park, or heading downtown for a meal, travel becomes direct and pleasant.

More active lifestyles and healthy transportation options

When walking and biking are safe, people use them more often. This helps improve public health, encourages time outdoors, and creates more opportunities for neighbors to meet and connect.

A stronger, more connected community identity

Attractive, functional public spaces signal that Ronan invests in its people. These improvements make the town feel welcoming to both residents and visitors, reinforcing pride and a sense of belonging.

Share Your voice

Get Involved

You have three simple ways to help shape this project, and every one of them counts. Add your ideas online, pinpoint spots on the map, or join us in person. However you choose to get involved, you will be helping make Ronan safer, easier to explore, and more connected.

  • Take the Walkability Survey to share your experiences and priorities
  • Use the Comment Map to pinpoint areas for improvement
  • Attend public meetings to help shape the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
Join The Conversation

Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

Subscribe to get fresh updates on local projects, events, and behind-the-scenes stories. We’ll also send you subscriber-only content and opportunities to get involved.

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Ronan Tourism. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Thompson Falls Eastward Extension Trail – Planning Project

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Connecting Thompson Falls with a Safe, Accessible Trail

A planned multi-use trail and boardwalk will link the west and east ends of Thompson Falls, improving safety, access, and community connection.

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WHAT it is

The Thompson Falls Eastward Extension Trail is a community-led project to create a safe, ADA-accessible multi-use trail connecting the west and east ends of Thompson Falls, Montana. The route will include an asphalt path and an elevated boardwalk, giving pedestrians, cyclists, and mobility device users a safe alternative to navigating MT Highway 200, the railroad, and the Thompson Falls Reservoir.

HOW it works

The project builds on a completed feasibility study and will move forward in two critical steps: permit assessment and survey work. These tasks will clear the way for future engineering and design by ensuring the trail meets all environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements.

Key elements include:

  • Asphalt trail and elevated boardwalk design
  • ADA-compliant features for accessibility
  • Safe links to downtown, parks, and key services
  • Contractor-led permitting and survey work before engineering begins
Frequently Asked questions

WHY it matters

Building the Eastward Extension Trail will create a safe, convenient, and scenic route that connects residents and visitors to essential services, recreation areas, and local businesses.

Improves Safety

Offers a protected route for non-motorized travel, reducing the need to walk or bike along high-speed roads with no shoulders.

Expands Access

Links neighborhoods to the only grocery store, healthcare facilities, parks, and downtown businesses.

Supports Economic Growth

Encourages foot traffic to downtown businesses and builds opportunities for recreation-based tourism.

Promotes Equity

Provides reliable transportation options for residents who are elderly, low-income, or without a vehicle.

Share Your voice

Get Involved

You have three simple ways to help shape this project, and every one of them counts. Add your ideas online, pinpoint spots on the map, or join us in person. However you choose to get involved, you will be helping make Ronan safer, easier to explore, and more connected.

  • Take the Walkability Survey to share your experiences and priorities
  • Use the Comment Map to pinpoint areas for improvement
  • Attend public meetings to help shape the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
Join The Conversation

Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

Subscribe to get fresh updates on local projects, events, and behind-the-scenes stories. We’ll also send you subscriber-only content and opportunities to get involved.

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Ronan Tourism. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact