HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-21-2020 Public Comment - G. Trefethen - Armory Hotel Project Application 19410From: Greer Trefethen
To: Agenda
Subject: Etha Armory Hotel Public Comment
Date: Friday, February 21, 2020 2:10:37 PM
Hello,
This is Greer Trefethen emailing during the public comment period on the Etha/Armory Hotel
project currently underway. I am incredibly excited about this new addition to the Bozeman
community and culture for three reasons. However, I was shocked and disappointed to hear
that the final three proposals on this building have not yet been approved at this time in the
construction.
First, this new beautifully and carefully designed addition to the Bozeman skyline will add a
huge and much needed boost to the employment market in this town. As a native, I am thrilled
to have had a front row seat to the growth and change this city has undergone. However, with
a seasonal student population and ever-growing younger demographic combined with the
seemingly non-stop influx of new families seeking entertainment and high-class hospitality,
we are experiencing a major worker shortage. Businesses like the Etha that are focused on
promoting and cultivating the historical and experiential aspects Bozeman have to offer are
much needed to invigorate our economic and historical longevity as a city.
Second, the clean and classic design has been thoughtfully and carefully curated to reflect both
past and future. While it is undoubtedly important for us to preserve important structures, one
of the best ways this city can accomplish that task is effectively utilizing existing spaces for
new and improved purposes. The Armory hotel promises to deliver far above average services
and experiences while paying homage to the roots from which the building and Bozeman
came.
Third and finally, besides invigorating the economy and preserving existing Bozeman history,
this project holds the potential to be a great boost to tourism. Last year alone Bozeman
International Airport handled over 1.57 million passengers representing a 17% growth from
2018! This continued year over year growth in the travelers visiting Bozeman and wanting to
experience everything our beautiful valley has to offer shows no signs of slowing down. With
that in mind, we as a city ought to fully endorse and encourage endeavors that seek to
maximize Bozeman's vast range of experiences. The Etha hotel project exemplifies the
crossroads of Bozeman's past, present and future while drawing more people to our amazing
city.
This opportunity seeks to build Bozeman's growing economy, preserve our sterling past and
build on its growing future. As a local, I am in full support of this project and hope to see all
necessary permits and provisions allocated as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Greer Trefethen
greer.g.trefethen@gmail.com
406-599-4721