HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-03-19 Public Comment - A. Sebrell - Cottonwood Road Construction PlanFrom:Andrew Sebrell
To:Agenda
Subject:Cottonwood Road Upgrade work
Date:Tuesday, September 03, 2019 8:58:05 AM
City of Bozeman
Attn: City Commission PO Box 1230 Bozeman, MT 59771
Bozeman City Commissioners,
Valley West Resident Bozeman, MT 59718
September 3, 2019
As a resident in the Valley West subdivision, I am writing to request a review of the
construction planned in the vicinity of Durston and Cottonwood. As I understand, there is to
be no left turn allowed into Classical Way. Classical Way is the singular access to Petra
Academy, Bronken Fields, and the wetland trails along Baxter Creek. As a resident I have
witnessed the large amount of traffic into and out of this area and I believe that the absence
of a left turn lane will negatively impact the quality of life in the Valley West neighborhood,
and the safety of those who use the park area between Hanley and Clifden.
During the construction phase earlier this summer, traffic was routed around the Durston-
Cottonwood intersection through our neighborhood via Bembrick and Eneboe Streets.
Traffic increased significantly on Clifden as many used this as an access between Babcock
and Durston. These roads were not designed for heavy traffic flow and many in our
neighborhood rely on the ability to park on those roads for access to residences, or for park
use. Vehicles regularly sped through the 15 mph park zone, putting the safety of the
neighborhood children at risk. Cars were continually backed up and forced to weave in, out
and around residential streets. The lack of a left turn into Classical Way will undoubtedly
lead to increased traffic through the Valley West neighborhood as northbound drivers seek
a route to access Classical Way from the north. As it is, there are already very long lines of
traffic attempting to make left turns onto Durston from both Clifden and Eneboe, often
resulting in blocked driveways and alley access for Valley West residents. Frustration is
mounting as the congestion increases and will certainly escalate as the school year begins.
Given the disproportionate impact on the Valley West community, we implore you to revise
the existing construction plan and allow for a left turn into Classical Way.
I highly also recommend extending the school zone from Durston up Clifden Dr as this is a
major walking route for children headed to Meadowlark Elementary School.
Respectfully,
Andrew Sebrell