HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-30-19 Public Comment - P. Higgins - Growth Policy1
Lacie Kloosterhof
From:Phoebe Higgins <phoeberhiggins@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, April 30, 2019 11:28 AM
To:Lacie Kloosterhof
Subject:Comments on Bozeman growth plan
Dear City of Bozeman Planning Board,
Thank you for taking steps to help accommodate Bozeman's rapid growth while
maintaining an enjoyable, walkable, town with neighborhoods for all, affordable housing
and access to our incredible outdoor amenities. Please consider the following as you
move forward with updates to the growth policy:
1. Preserve open space and prioritize infill development and increased density in
order to maintain a livable and affordable small city that does not give in to sprawl
or promote over-reliance on cars (which bring noise and pollution).
2. All new development must be walkable, bikeable, and accessible by transit. Bike
lanes and sidewalks must be extended and maintained to provide better access to
existing development as well. Increased focus on these modes of transports
lessens the need for cars and parking.
3. Establish an urban growth boundary: focus development on lands within the
boundary and preserve open space and agricultural lands outside the
boundary. Gallatin County has the best soil in the state and our agriculture
industry requires access to it.
4. Ensure that Bozeman’s growth policy prioritizes reducing climate emissions, and is
consistent with the City of Bozeman’s Climate Action Plan.
5. Plan for green infrastructure (rather than grey infrastructure) in order to preserve
clean drinking water, maintain wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities,
reduce flood risk, lessen climate impacts and improve livability (greenery is much
nicer than concrete!).
6. Plan for affordable housing so that locals can afford to stay in their homes and new
residents coming to Bozeman can afford to buy or rent. This is especially
important for folks working at MSU, our schools and local nonprofits.
Thank you for your consideration,
Phoebe and Rich Higgins
317 E. Cleveland St
Bozeman, MT 59715