About This Project
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 and safety. ADA ramp improvements, added bike racks, and upgraded lighting.
- Event and hospitality upgrades. A centralized audio-visual system for community events and expanded refrigeration for take-home products.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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 at ronancoopbrewery.com.
Funded through the Ronan Tourism Grant Program. The brewery's own story starts with Mission West's Cooperative Development Center, which helped launch it as Montana's first community-owned brewery.
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