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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