Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1259963
SiG MT 56 GREAT FALLS S H O P E A T S T A Y P L A Y E X P L O R E & P EST 1883 GREAT FALLS W O R T H A V I S I T eople love Great Falls for a lot of reasons. A great view of the big Montana sky, outstanding education, world-class healthcare, miles of trails and fun food and drinks options are just a handful of what makes Great Falls a great place to really live. But perhaps that which stands out most is the ability of Great Falls' community partners – volunteers, private businesses, non-profits, government bodies and the like – to make change happen when it's most needed. With about 80,000 residents in the Great Falls area, it is large enough to enjoy a cohesive and efficient corps of community partners, but small enough that everyone can get involved, work together and make a difference. Community partnerships are the backbone of Great Falls. One of the most active partnerships is the Great Falls Development Authority (GFDA), a regional economic development partnership created in 2002. Economic development involves practically every facet of a community and region. GFDA works to grow and diversify the region's economy, create higher wage career opportunities, and improve our competitiveness. e partnership brings together public and private leaders in industry, local government, healthcare, housing, education, utilities, transportation and tourism to work in unison. Great Falls is proud to play a key role in defending our country. e Montana Defense Alliance is a partnership that lobbies to keep existing defense missions and pursue future missions. A partnership that is making a noticeable difference is the Downtown Development Partnership created in 2012. e Downtown Development Partnership leads downtown revitalization efforts, bringing together partners to promote and improve downtown Great Falls, forge alliances, celebrate successes, and support the many new local businesses, restaurants and developments. By Soren Chargois M O N T A N A S ' M O S T A F F O R D A B L E C I T Y A view of Great Falls' Central Avenue downtown at dusk. Everyone is welcome in Great Falls.