HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-15-16 Public Comment - J. Rockne - Black OliveDear Mayor Taylor and Commissioners
I am adding my voice to the discussion surrounding the proposed Black Olive development
currently moving through the Planning system.
My husband and I live at 222 S. Black Ave, just four houses from the proposed project.
First, we support infill and think Bozeman’s core will be stronger and more pedestrian-friendly
for it.
One issue concerning issue for us is the abrupt step from B-3 to R-2 zoning. With no higher-
density residential transition, the proposed project as designed will impact the character of the
South side dramatically. We realize the zoning is what it is for this project, but we would
support a decision that would mollify the transition from residential to this relatively super-high-
density project (by neighborhood standards).
Our entire neighborhood lies within the NCOD. We are rife with the homes of the many historic
names that made Bozeman. One of them, Fred Willson, designed the Blackmore Apartments,
which we as a neighborhood embrace as part of it. Its design and size are appropriate and add to
the patois of the South side. Personal architectural taste aside, I think the design and scale of the
proposed Black Olive project are a slap in the face to the simple grandeur and the aesthetic and
historic interest of the Blackmore Apartments and to Fred Willson’s vision.
Finally, I would support a neighborhood impact review as a requirement for approving this
project. Such a review would assess, at minimum, impacts on sewer and water, traffic, parking,
solar access, and viewshed. South Black is challenged for parking from downtown workers and
patrons, employees of the Federal Building, and residents and their guests who need to park on-
street. South Black also only has parking on one side of the street. Such apartment projects in
more urban settings may attract people who don’t own a vehicle or choose alternative
transportation. But one of the attractions of living in Bozeman is access to recreation – and that
often requires a vehicle. I think the Black Olive’s developer’s ideal of one vehicle per apartment
is wishful thinking, despite being a lovely concept.
In closing, I know the Commission will have the final approval on the Black Olive project. I
also know the Commission will assess the development based on the current guidelines of
planning and zoning. But just because a project falls within the bounds of the guidelines should
it necessarily be built to their maximum allowance – particularly when the zoning transition is so
abrupt? This project as proposed will disrupt the balance and character of this neighborhood in
many ways, and for a very long time.
Among the many comments voiced by members of the Design Review Board on the proposed
project was one that asked, “What is a Black Olive?” He said it’s humble and simple. The
project shouldn’t light up downtown or be a “gem,” both of which were how Mr. Halloran
described his project. It should be right-scaled and contribute to the neighborhood by bringing
quiet, safety, and grounding. I ask you accept the recommendations of City staff and the DRB
and deny this project, asking Mr. Halloran to come back with a vastly more modestly-scaled
proposal.
Thank you for your attention,
Jennifer Rockne
222 S. Black Ave.
Bozeman, MT 59715