HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-24-21 Public Comment - B. Kuhlemeier - Canyon GateSeptember 24, 2021
Ross Knapper
Development Review Coordinator, Community Development
20 East Olive St.
Bozeman, MT 59771
rknapper@BOZEMAN.NET
RE: Canyon Gate Development Project No: 21337
Dear Mr. Knapper,
I am writing to you as a concerned Bozeman resident to express my opposition to the proposed zoning of
the Canyon Gate development (Project No 21337). While it is understood that the land located on the
corner of Story Mill Road and Bridger Drive would eventually be developed, the current proposal is not
in the best interests of any of the nearby residents and surrounding communities nor does it align with the
current character of the area.
I urge the City to maintain the original intent and natural beauty of the established community, zoning to
align with the current development patterns for the area which would be R-1, R-2, and R-3. Small scale
mixed use should be limited to B-2 (not B-2M) along Story Mill so it is compatible with existing adjacent
developments. This would maintain the character of the surrounding areas and the intent in which people
have created their homes and chosen to live in the area specifically for. The reasons for my opposition are
numerous and include, but are not limited to, the wildland-urban interface, habitat corridor, and traffic &
safety concerns of the residents.
Wildland-urban interface & habitat corridor
Using the recent wildfire in the Bridger Mountains just up the canyon from the proposed development,
the wildland-urban interface should be considered. Today, the communities of Legends I & II,
Creekwood, Headlands, and others have abundant wildlife that use the quiet and safe communities as a
corridor to nearby wildlands and open spaces. High density development will put the wildland-urban
interface at risk, further pushing habitat out of their homes and the surrounding areas.
Traffic & safety
The proposed roadways and traffic flows are in direct conflict with the safety of so many young children
and active residents in the neighborhood. The proposed plan appears to ignore the original roadway plan
of the subdivision, re-routing roads directly to Story Mill, which will result in tremendous traffic and
safety impacts, especially if you consider the ever-increasing traffic to and from Bridger Bowl. There has
been a distinct increase in motor traffic and train delays in just the last few years. This proposal begs the
question of proper infrastructure for the health and safety of its residents and community members.
In conclusion, I hope that you will consider my concerns and know that mine are representative of an
overwhelming majority of the immediate subdivision as well as the surrounding communities. I ask that
we limit the zoning to R-1, R-2, R-3, and maintain the landscapes and zoning that have been established.
Sincerely,
Barbara Kuhlemeier
1724 Midfield Street
Bozeman, Montana 59715