HomeMy WebLinkAbout9-14-21 Public Comment - C. Omland - Canyon GateRE: Canyon Gate Development Project No: 21337
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the annex and proposed zoning of the Canyon Gate
development (Project No 21337), located at the corner of Story Mill and Bridger Drive. The current proposal
does not align to, nor enrich, the social, aesthetic or community value of Bridger Creek, Legends, Creekwood
and other nearby neighborhoods. While the city must support growth and address the challenges of housing
within the city, the current proposal consists of spot zoning and would lead to an arbitrary and hodgepodge feel
to what is currently a thoughtful and well designed neighborhood.
I strongly encourage, and request, the city take into consideration the zoning of the surrounding neighborhoods
when considering annexing and development of the proposed land. The zoning of the surrounding
neighborhoods consists of R-1, R-2 and R-3 (R-S) developments. The zoned developments make for a family
friendly environment that supports neighborhood gathering, community development and a safe social lifestyle
for the many children in the area. Any new proposal should match these zoned developments, allowing a
developer to create an R-5 zoned development will negatively impact the area and remove many of the
benefits created by the previous thoughtful development of this area. The Homebase builder is notorious for
building high rise structures (Bock M, One 11, Black Olive), none of which match the neighborhood setting that
currently exists.
In addition to the lack of thoughtful zoning, the current proposal does not take into account the impacts to
surrounding wildlife, impacts of flooding from Bridger Creek and open spaces and parks. Any development that
is proposed should have adequate planning for Bridger Creek watershed as well as necessary open space and
parks that support neighborhood development, activities for the surrounding community and common space
gathering.
While growth in Bozeman is inevitable it does not require that every neighborhood within Bozeman consist of
high density high rise buildings. While that building style and mixed commercial use is appealing to some there
are others that are drawn to quiet nights, night sky views, safe streets for children to play, wildlife corridors and
access to open spaces. It’s imperative our city planning creates and protects neighborhoods and living
opportunities with these characteristics.
I strongly encourage the city to apply thoughtful planning and thinking to any annexing of the land located at
the corner of Story Mill and Bridger Drive. Many local residents call this area home, have chosen to start and
raise a family here and would desire any development that respects and maintains the current look, feel and
community aspects that we have come to love in this area.
Thank you for your consideration.
Chris Omland
1593 Maiden Spirit Street, Bozeman, MT