The planning process, which began last May, has included extensive public input, research of historical documents, and a site survey. The proposed plan emphasizes the importance and significance of the memorials and monuments, including the Rose Garden itself.  It also allows for future monuments honoring those who have lost their lives for our safety, protection and freedom.  The plan allows for ADA access, a restroom, and a gathering space for special events such the Memorial Day ceremony.  The draft plan enhances the memorial experience in the park with walkways and contemplative spaces, and creates separate spaces for remembrances, small gatherings and casual neighborhood use.

Following public input, the draft Master Site Plan will be edited to reflect changes as needed and then be presented to the City Parks and Recreation Board and City Council for adoption. A park master plan is a general guide for appropriate park uses and their approximate location within a specific park site. The plan serves as a long-range vision (10-20 year timeframe) for future development and programming. The plan is conceptual in nature and not intended to address detailed issues related to engineered site design or park operations.  

Because of the Park`s visibility and popularity, Parks and Recreation receives numerous requests for memorial trees, benches, statues, pavers, and other improvements.  The Park is also frequently requested for weddings, public events, and special ceremonies.   Parks Department staff has decided it is time to seek guidance from citizens and park stakeholders, like veteran`s groups and the Missoula Rose Society, about a long-term vision for the park and plans for future park improvements.  

The Master Site Plan helps define the community`s vision for the park, but does not identify funding sources for park improvements.  "The City has no immediate plans to implement specific changes to the park," says Parks and Recreation Director Donna Gaukler.  "Rather, the Master Site Plan simply gives us a blueprint to follow when funding becomes available or as requests are received from citizens and stakeholders."

Memorial Rose Garden Park was established in 1944 by the city and the Missoula Rose Society to commemorate members of the armed forced killed in World War II.  It has since become the site for memorials dedicated to casualties of America`s conflicts including Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, the Persian Gulf and Korea.  In addition, there are a variety of other memorials throughout the park, including the Missoula Law Enforcement Memorial.  The Missoula Rose Society purchases and maintains over 2000 roses in several beds throughout the park.  In April 1999, the Missoula Memorial Rose Garden was designated as a "State Veteran`s Memorial Rose Garden" and the Korean War Memorial as a "State Korean War Memorial."  Both are shown on official Montana State Highway maps.