HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-16-23 - Northeast Urban Renewal District Board - Agendas & Packet MaterialsA.Call meeting to order at 6:30pm
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B.Disclosures
C.Changes to the Agenda
D.Approval of Minutes
D.1 Approve Meeting Minutes from April 2022 and January 2023.(DiTommaso)
E.Public Comment
Please state your name and address in an audible tone of voice for the record. This is the time for
individuals to comment on matters falling within the purview of the Committee. There will also be
an opportunity in conjunction with each action item for comments pertaining to that item. Please
limit your comments to three minutes.
F.Action Items
F.1 Northeast Urban Renewal District Work Plan and Budget for Fiscal Year 2024 (Fine)
G.FYI/Discussion
H.Adjournment
THE NORTHEAST URBAN RENEWAL BOARD OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA
NURB AGENDA
Thursday, March 16, 2023
For more information please contact David Fine, dfine@bozeman.net
This board generally meets the third Thursday of the month from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Committee meetings are open to all members of the public. If you have a disability and require
assistance, please contact our ADA coordinator, Mike Gray at 582-3232 (TDD 582-2301).
In order for this Board to receive all relevant public comment in time for this meeting, please submit via
the Commission Comment Page or by emailing agenda@bozeman.net no later than 12:00 PM on the
day of the meeting. Public comment may be made in person at the meeting as well.
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Northeast Urban Renewal Board
FROM:Robin Sullivan, Recording Secretary
Jesse DiTommaso, Economic Development Specialist
David Fine, Economic Development Program Manager
SUBJECT:Approve Meeting Minutes from April 2022 and January 2023.
MEETING DATE:March 16, 2023
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:I move to approve the April 2022 and January 2023 Northeast Urban
Renewal Board Meeting Minutes.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.2 Community Engagement: Broaden and deepen engagement of the
community in city government, innovating methods for inviting input from
the community and stakeholders.
BACKGROUND:In accordance with Commission Resolution 5323 and the City of Bozeman's
Citizen Advisory Board Manual, all boards must have minutes taken and
approved. Prepared minutes will be provided for approval by the board at
the next regularly scheduled meeting. Staff will make any corrections
identified to the minutes before submitting to the City Clerk's Office.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None.
ALTERNATIVES:As recommended by the board.
FISCAL EFFECTS:None.
Attachments:
NURB 20220421min.doc
NURB 20230119 min.doc
Report compiled on: March 7, 2023
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NURB Meeting – April 21, 2022 1
Northeast Urban Renewal Board (NURB)
Regular Meeting
Thursday, April 21, 2022
The Northeast Urban Renewal Board met in regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 21,
2022, via Webex.
Present:Absent:
Voting Members:
Charlie Kees Ethan Barlow
Natalie Van Dusen Corwin Dormire
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese
Non-Voting Members:
EJ Daws
Chris Nixon
Robert Pavlic
Commissioner Liaison:
I-Ho Pomeroy
Staff:
Brit Fontenot, Economic Development Director
Robin Sullivan, Recording Secretary
Guests:
Jesse DiTommaso, Economic Development Specialist
Mary Wictor
Lucia Stewart
Pete Stein
Call to Order – Jeanne Wesley-Wiese called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m.
Disclosures. No disclosures were made.
Changes to Agenda. No changes were made to the agenda.
Minutes – March 24, 2022. It was moved by Natalie Van Dusen, seconded by Charlie Kees,
that the minutes of the regular meeting of March 24, 2022, be approved as submitted. The
motion carried on a 3-0 vote.
Public Comment. Mary Wictor, 1504 Boylan Road, stated she is listening and learning about
the district. She noted the minutes from the last meeting reference a pedestrian bridge and
East Aspen Street and she would like more information about that project.
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NURB Meeting – April 21, 2022 2
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese gave a brief overview of the project’s location and the improvements
included.
Lucia Stewart, owner of 415 and 425 East Aspen Street, thanked David Fine for working with
her over the past six months. She noted that the end of the bridge is in her front yard, only five
to eight feet from her front door. As a result, she has asked about having a privacy fence
constructed, which would be an asset for both her residence and the user experience. She
noted that in the past, she has helped pass out flyers in support of the bridge and is excited to
see the project come to fruition; however, she did not realize how close it would be to her
house.
Discussion/Action Items –
Final Recommendation to the Bozeman City Commission for the Fiscal Year 2022-
2023 Budget and Work Plan. Jeanne Wesley-Wiese noted that when the Board was initially
formed, one of the projects discussed was something artistic acknowledging the entrance ways
on East Tamarack Street and East Peach Street by the creek. She suggested that, with the
completion of the street improvement projects and the bridges that have now been installed,
really cool chain link art may be a way to create those entrances. In addition, she asked that
the Board consider funding for getting rid of the noxious weeds along the alleyways and
possibly taking steps to encourage people to enhance those areas, maybe through planting
drought resistant pollinator plants.
Brit Fontenot highlighted the staff recommendations for the budget and work plan for the
upcoming fiscal year, noting that it includes funding for the pedestrian bridge, design of a pocket
park, construction of a quiet zone, monies to monitor the feasibility of a parking structure,
maintenance of the trails and boulevards, administrative costs and bond costs. The budget also
includes $308,600 in a designated reserve for projects. He proposed that, if the Board so
chooses, it could include additional monies for weed abatement and alleyway enhancements in
the maintenance section of the budget.
Mary Wictor, 1504 Boylan Road, voiced her support for the proposed budget as well as the
ideas forwarded by Jeanne Wesley-Wiese.
Natalie Van Dusen expressed support for adding dollars to address the alleys although she is
uncertain about the mechanics of who would maintain those areas. She is also supportive of
the suggested art project and the level of beautification it would provide.
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese noted that students from the MSU Department of Architecture presented
suggestions on two different occasions for enhancing the area, and some of those ideas were
really interesting. She then acknowledged that she is uncertain how the proposed maintenance
and enhancement of the alleyways would be accomplished.
Charlie Kees voiced his concurrence with Jeanne Wesley-Wiese’s comments and proposals.
He noted that the $5,700 in the line item for trails and boulevard maintenance seems low,
particularly in light of the overall amount budgeted. He observed there are opportunities to
improve maintenance of those areas and encouraged allocating more monies in this line item.
Brit Fontenot suggested that the Board add a line item under “infrastructure” for public art and
add monies to the line item for trails, boulevard and alleyway maintenance. He noted those
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NURB Meeting – April 21, 2022 3
changes would result in a decrease in the designated reserve for projects. He asked that the
Board determine the amount to be budgeted for each of those new projects.
Charlie Kees stated he lives in the northeast neighborhood, and it feels like there’s a lack of
maintenance in general in the area.
Brit Fontenot stated the maintenance monies are used for mowing the grass, weed abatement
and weed spraying. He noted the number is low because the Parks Department takes care of
trails and weed abatement; however, he acknowledged that this area may require more
attention than is provided under that program.
Responding to Charlie Kees, Brit Fontenot stated the work is contracted out and is done on a
regular schedule during the spring and summer.
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese stated another big issue is litter from the building industries in the area.
She noted that the trails in this part of the community are forgotten on Earth Day.
Charlie Kees noted he is a landscape architect and he sees the deficiencies in how the
landscaping and public rights-of-way are maintained. He recognized the need to prioritize the
aesthetics of the area and to dedicate more monies to those projects. He proposed that the line
item be $12,000. He also suggested that $10,000 be budgeted for public art.
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese and Natalie Van Dusen voiced their agreement for that proposal.
It was moved by Jeanne Wesley-Wiese, seconded by Charlie Kees, that the Board amend the
budget and work plan for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 to include $12,000 for trails, boulevard and
alleyway maintenance, including litter clean-up, and add a line item under “infrastructure” for
public art and earmark $10,000 for that line item, thus decreasing the reserve for projects. The
motion carried on a 3-0 vote.
FYI/Discussion.There was no discussion under this agenda item.
Adjournment – 7:35 p.m. There being no further business to come before the Board at this
time, Jeanne Wesley-Wiese adjourned the meeting.
Jeanne Wesley-Wiese
Northeast Urban Renewal Board
City of Bozeman
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NURB Meeting – January 19, 2023 1
Northeast Urban Renewal Board (NURB)
Regular Meeting
Thursday, January 19, 2023
The Northeast Urban Renewal Board met in regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, January
19, 2023, in the Commission Room, City Hall, 121 North Rouse Avenue, Bozeman, Montana.
Present:Absent:
Voting Members:
Corwin Dormire Charlie Kees
Ethan Barlow Jeanne Wesley-Wiese
Natalie Van Dusen
Non-Voting Members:
EJ Daws
Chris Nixon
Robert Pavlic
Commissioner Liaison:
I-Ho Pomeroy
Staff:
David Fine, Urban Renewal Program Manager
Robin Sullivan, Recording Secretary
Jessi DiTammaso, Economic Development Specialist
Guests:
Mike Magrans, Managing Partner, Outlaw Real Estate Partners
Tom Berkley, Director of Development, Outlaw Real Estate Partners
Jeff Lucine, 45 Architecture
Call to Order – Corwin Dormire called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Disclosures. No disclosures were made.
Changes to Agenda. No changes were made to the agenda.
Minutes – March 24, 2022.Robin Sullivan stated the minutes from the March 24, 2022
meeting were approved at the April 2022 meeting, so no action is required at this time.
Public Comment. No comment was received under this agenda item.
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NURB Meeting – January 19, 2023 2
Discussion/Action Items –
Cloverleaf Northeast Urban Renewal Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Request. Mike
Magrans, Managing Partner of Outlaw Real Estate Partners, gave a brief overview of the site,
which is currently Bronken’s Distributing, a beer distributor. The subject 2.1-acre parcel is
located at the northeast corner of the intersection of East Peach Street and North Ida Avenue
and is bounded by those streets plus North Plum Avenue and East Cottonwood Street. It is in a
heavily trafficked area due to the beer trucks moving through the neighborhood in all directions
on a daily basis. The property currently houses three dilapidated 25-foot-tall metal buildings
and is severely blighted. Due to the beer delivery trucks moving around on narrow streets, the
site is noisy and unsafe. There are abandoned cars and trucks as well as discarded wood
palettes littering the site and there is a barbed wire fence along North Plum Avenue, which is
currently a dirt road. The buildings and fencing are covered with graffiti, and the site is not well
maintained. There are no sidewalks along East Cottonwood Street, North Ida Avenue or North
Plum Avenue, no curb cuts, and no street lighting. This is a perfect area for urban renewal, and
the developer is seeking tax increment financing assistance to support the infrastructure
improvement needed on the property.
Mike Magrans gave an overview of the Cloverleaf Development, which is to be a residential
mixed use development with 110 units in a mix of 1 and 2 bedroom townhouses and
apartments. Fourteen of those units are to be designated as affordable and will be subject to
covenants to maintain that affordability as part of the tax increment financing assistance. The
existing buildings are to be demolished and removed from the site. Also, North Plum Avenue is
to be realigned, and the streets adjacent to this property are to be widened and paved. In
addition, 500 feet of sewer main and 350 feet of water main are to be replaced, and 11,000
square feet of sidewalks are to be installed. Also, street lighting will be provided, creating a
safer and more pleasant neighborhood. A state of the art fiber network is to be included in the
project. Buildings are to be set back from the property line to minimize impacts on the
properties across the street to the south, and the height of the buildings is to be kept as low as
possible.
Mike Magrans stated that the four townhouse buildings are designed to contain a total of 42
units for rent, with each building having nine to eleven units. The intent is to create a mixed use
or live/work environment. The developer has three artisan spaces at the Wildlands, and it is
hoped that the artists in those spaces will be interested in living in the neighborhood. The
buildings are to be wood structures with fiber cement lap siding and other natural products.
Each of the units will be 1100 to 1200 square feet and have its own dedicated parking on-site.
A pedestrian plaza will be included, creating a sense of community. The front doors of the
townhomes will either face that interior plaza or the street. The apartment building is to be
51,000 square feet and have a total of 68 apartments for rent. The fourteen affordable units in
this project will be in that building. It is anticipated that some of the parking will be semi-
underground for this three-story building, with a total of 51 on-site parking spaces and 17 on-
street parking spaces along North Plum Avenue.
Mike Magrans stressed that this project, which is to be completed in Spring or Summer 2025,
represents a serious investment in the area, with over $45 million in the land, structures and soft
costs. The developer is seeking $2.2 million in tax increment financing monies for demolition of
the existing buildings, roads, public infrastructure and impact fees. If the total of 110 residential
units is constructed, it is estimated the project will generate $200,000 annually in taxes versus
the current $19,000 generated by Bronken Distributing. Based on those estimates, this project
has a payback of eleven years and has a return on investment ratio of 22 to 1. He concluded by
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NURB Meeting – January 19, 2023 3
noting that this project will improve the infrastructure and a terribly blighted site while adding
much needed attainable and affordable housing units.
Responding to Natalie VanDusen, Mike Magrans stated he envisions the affordable and
attainable units will be 700 square feet and will be rented at the rate set at that time, which is 80
percent of AMI for affordable units. He noted this development is intended to attract young
professionals and young families.
Responding to Commissioner Liaison Pomeroy, Mike Magrans stated the larger apartment units
will be 1150 square feet and will rent for $2,000 to $3,000 per month.
Further responding to Commissioner Liaison Pomeroy, Mike Magrans stated that one parking
space per unit is to be provided on site.
Corwin Dormire noted that three of the affordable units stem from the Wildlands project, and
those units are to be attainable at 120 percent of AMI. The remaining eleven units are to be
affordable at 80 percent of AMI.
Mike Magrans stated they feel the apartments are attainable by being smaller and more
efficient; and they will meet the City’s requirements at the time the construction is done.
Responding to Ethan Barlow, Mike Magrans stated they can request only the amount of tax
increment financing monies needed to cover the costs of infrastructure improvements; and that
is the amount they are seeking.
Further responding to Ethan Barlow, Mike Magrans stated the developer looked at some types
of commercial uses and found that any commercial use requires an extraordinary amount of
parking, thus making that type of use impossible on this site. They then looked at the type of
housing needed and determined that entry level housing is a critical need. He also noted that
everyone needs a car, particularly those who commute to work or to the mountains to recreate,
so on-site parking is essential. He acknowledged that parking for the apartment building is
pushed toward the perimeter of the site; however, the developer has exhausted all the options
they could identify without pushing parking to the streetscape.
Ethan Barlow noted this type of discussion shines a light on the constraints of the City’s code.
He stated this project is a good example of sensitivity and nostalgia, and voiced his interest in
ensuring the funkiness of the area is retained.
Mike Magrans acknowledged Ethan Barlow’s comments, but noted the harsh reality is that the
landowners want market pricing for the land, which requires a higher and better use than re-
using the 50-year-old metal buildings.
Responding to questions from Commissioner Liaison Pomeroy, David Fine stated the statutory
definition of blight must be met for the creation of an urban renewal district. He noted, however,
that the State has no program for funding; rather, the tax increment financing monies are the
only economic development tool available.
Responding to Corwin Dormire, David Fine stated that staff asks the applicant to score the
application, and staff scores it as well.
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NURB Meeting – January 19, 2023 4
Mike Magrans stated their scoring of the application was higher than staff’s. He noted,
however, he feels the team has done a good job of focusing on the City’s priority, which is
affordable housing, and the project is balanced between what’s responsible to the community
and to the developer. They pride themselves on quality and being considerate to the
community and to the neighborhood. He indicated that they are exploring ways to make the
project 100 percent renewable and electric but not reliant on gas.
David Fine stated this project is eligible for the costs related to demolition of the existing
structure, public infrastructure investments and impact fees; and the applicant is seeking 100
percent of the tax increment financing monies for which this project is eligible. He noted that
East Peach Street needs no improvements because this district already used monies to
reconstruct it. He acknowledged that this site is an urban lot without urban infrastructure,
leading to the high costs of making those improvements. He noted that, when looking at the
goals of this district, this project meets almost all of the things this district is seeking. It
remediates conditions of blight, updates the infrastructure, does not maximize the height
allowed in the district, and the developer is requiring themselves to attach a deed restriction on
the land to keep the height at the same level as existing in the neighborhood, not the four
stories or fifty feet allowed by the zone code. Also, the project provides eleven new units of
affordable housing as well as the three units committed in conjunction with the Wildlands
project. He concluded by stating this project meets the criteria set for project review.
David Fine noted this Board is advisory to the City Commission; and that body will take final
action on this application. Staff will negotiate an agreement with the developer that includes
specific performance criteria for tax increment financing assistance. That agreement will include
fourteen units rented at affordable rates, with eleven of them being affordable at 80 percent of
AMI for rental units. Also, it will include the requirement for a restrictive covenant that
affordability be continued and the building height restriction, which will run with the land. The
development agreement will also address the reimbursement of costs. He indicated that staff is
recommending a pay as you go reimbursement on the tax increment financing monies, with the
developer receiving a percentage of the actual tax generation until they are made whole.
Responding to Ethan Barlow, David Fine stated tax increment financing is a tool to use in areas
where infrastructure has fallen into decline in conjunction with private investment that generates
additional tax revenues for the community. He stressed that the amount of the payback for
those infrastructure improvements is directly related to the amount of additional taxation the
project provides to the district.
Responding to Commissioner Liaison Pomeroy, David Fine stated the bonds for this district
were issued in 2018 and will be fully repaid in 2043. He indicated that tax assessments have
been lower than anticipated for the newer developments. For this project, the developer is
being asked to underwrite the costs of the infrastructure improvements but will get those monies
repaid from the additional taxes until the $2.2 million is met.
Responding to Ethan Barlow, David Fine stated staff has not negotiated a pay as you go
financing agreement, but he indicated that generally 70 to 90 percent of the annual taxes
generated by the subject parcel will be repaid to the developer until the qualifying costs have
been fully funded.
Ethan Barlow stated he feels this is an appropriate and effective tool; however, from a district
standpoint, the payback minimizes the opportunities to fund additional projects.
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NURB Meeting – January 19, 2023 5
David Fine responded that this district’s primary expenditures in the last few years have been
investments in infrastructure improvements, particularly street reconstructions. He noted that
under this request, the developer is doing the infrastructure improvements upfront and then
seeking reimbursement rather than this Board waiting until it has sufficient tax increment
financing monies to cover the costs.
There was no public comment on this application.
It was moved by Corwin Dormire, seconded by Natalie VanDusen, that the Board recommend
providing TIF assistance to the Cloverleaf Mixed Use Development project to the City
Commission. The motion carried on a 3-0 vote.
FYI/Discussion.There was no discussion under this agenda item.
Adjournment – 7:27 p.m. There being no further business to come before the Board at this
time, Corwin Dormire adjourned the meeting.
Corwin Dormire
Northeast Urban Renewal Board
City of Bozeman
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Northeast Urban Renewal Board
FROM:Robin Sullivan
David Fine, Economic Development Program Manager
SUBJECT:Northeast Urban Renewal District Work Plan and Budget for Fiscal Year 2024
MEETING DATE:March 16, 2023
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Policy Discussion
RECOMMENDATION:Discuss Northeast Urban Renewal District Work Plan and Budget for Fiscal
Year 2024 and provide feedback to staff.
STRATEGIC PLAN:2.2 Infrastructure Investments: Strategically invest in infrastructure as a
mechanism to encourage economic development.
BACKGROUND:Economic Development staff compiled a preliminary budget for discussion
purposes and feedback from the Board. Our intention is that the Board will
provide guidance and feedback at this meeting and vote on a final budget at
the regular April meeting.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:Staff is refining final revenue projection, which could impact the amount
available for spending.
ALTERNATIVES:As suggested by the Board.
FISCAL EFFECTS:Staff is proposing a $1,281,000 budget that expends undesignated fund
balance on infrastructure and maintenance projects as attached.
Attachments:
23-24NURB Work Plan 031623.2.pdf
FY24 NURB Work Plan draft 031623.2.pdf
Report compiled on: March 9, 2023
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FY24 Budget Future Projects
Revenues:
Estimated Beginning Balance $1,000,000.00
FY21 Tax Increment $280,000.00
Delinquent Increment
State Shared/Entitlement
Interest $1,000.00
Total Estimated Revenues $1,281,000.00
Expenditures:
Infrastructure
Pedestrian Bridge/East Aspen Street Construction $405,037.00
Pocket park - North Church right-of-way design $25,000.00
Trails within district $200,000.00
Quiet Zone Construction $436,820.00
Connector trail - Depot trail to Audubon site $25,000.00
Public Art $10,000.00
Reimburse Wildlands public infrastructure $580,000.00
Reimburse Cloverleaf public infrastructure $2,000,000.00
Parking Structure $50,000.00
Front Street - Ida to East Aspen Street $118,000.00
Front Street - Tamarack to Ida Construction $190,000.00
North Ida Avenue - Peach to Cottonwood Engineering $50,000.00
North Ida Avenue - Peach to Cottonwood Construction $280,000.00
Front Street - Ida to East Aspen Street Construction $100,000.00
Subtotal - Infrastructure $926,857.00 $3,543,000.00
Maintenance
Trails/Boulevards/Alleyway Maintenance $12,000.00
Subtotal - Maintenance $12,000.00
Administration
Staff Support $3,000.00
Administrative Services $19,800.00
Professional Services $10,000.00
Bond Repayment $93,000.00
Subtotal Administration $125,800.00
Reserves
Designated Reserve - Bond $120,900.00
Designated Reserve - Projects $95,443.00
Subtotal Reserves $216,343.00
Total Expenditures $1,281,000.00
Northeast Urban Renewal District
2023-2024 Budget
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2024 - 031623 1
NORTHEAST URBAN RENEWAL BOARD FY2023 ANNUAL REPORT
and
FY2024 WORK PLAN AND BUDGET
On November 28, 2005, the Bozeman City Commission finally adopted Ordinance No. 1655 which
formally enacted the Northeast Urban Renewal Plan and became effective December 28, 2005. The stated mission of the plan and general goals are as follows: DISTRICT PLAN MISSION/VISION “This Plan is the City’s response to remedy the conditions of blight found in the August 2005 [Blight] Report. The Plan also addresses other issues important to the District. The Plan’s purpose is to
ensure the vitality of the Northeast Urban Renewal District (NURD) the vitality of the NURD for
generations to come, and to make the NURD an area in which its citizens can take exceptional pride. The Plan envisions a mixed use neighborhood that is user friendly, safe, secure and healthy. While
this Plan envisions a District with diversity of housing, businesses and amenities, it intends to maintain the unique ambiance and historic character of the District”. Nine principles were developed for the plan. Each of the principles has one or more goals associated with the plan, some of which specifically relate to this work plan while others represent general
objectives and directives. The Northeast Urban Renewal Board (NURB) goals are as follows: GENERAL GOALS:
Outdated or insufficient infrastructure should be repaired, replaced, or otherwise improved.
Provide public utilities to the area efficiently in ways that are not visually or physically obtrusive.
Encourage a land use pattern that facilitates all modes of transportation – vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian, mass transit, and commercial – for safe, efficient and convenient access for residential, commercial, and industrial uses.
Harmonize commercial and industrial development with residential quality of life.
New structures should be designed and built keeping in mind the public values of durability, flexibility, and simplicity. Thoughtful consideration of design, materials, and massing in the construction of new private buildings will add strength and character to the built environment. To the degree that the private sector can be influenced by a public partner in development, the community ought to strongly encourage excellence in urban design as a basis of partnership.
Promote sustainable building practices and design within the district.
Procure new land for park and open space.
Improve landscaping in existing public spaces.
Neither the City of Bozeman nor any of its subdivisions shall use eminent domain to take private property for private use in the implementation of an urban renewal project or similar redevelopment plan.
Encourage the City to help ensure the success of the Northeast Urban Renewal Plan by giving a high priority to the Northeast District in its capital improvements plan.
Work with neighborhoods and businesses to ensure actions taken in the district are compatible with adjacent developed areas.
Work with the City to ensure actions taken outside of the District are compatible with projects inside of the District.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2024 - 031623 2
In 2010, the Northeast Urban Renewal Board began implementing plans and projects reflecting their three funding priorities: 1) Parks, Trails and Greenspace; 2) Infrastructure and 3) Neighborhood Development Plan. Northeast Urban Renewal District (NURB) FY2023 Annual Report (July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023)
Pedestrian Bridge/East Aspen Street ($6,267) $ 170,000 This project will provide for pedestrian connectivity through a trail extension and a non-vehicular
crossing of Bozeman Creek. The project also includes sidewalk along one side of East Aspen Street between the creek and North Rouse Avenue. This will result in the improvements along yet another street within the district and will tie into the new improvements to North Rouse Avenue.
Design of the pedestrian bridge and engineering of the abutments upon which to construct the bridge have been completed and construction bids for the project have been received, with construction to be completed in FY24. As a result, a majority of the monies budgeted in this line item are carried forward to next year’s work plan.
Pocket Park – North Church Avenue right-of-way design $ 25,000
Several years ago, a trail was constructed along the North Church Avenue right-of-way between East Cottonwood Street and East Tamarack Street. Under this project, that trail is to be extended north from East Tamarack Street, with a pocket park constructed along the stream. The first step in the process is to design the trail improvements and the pocket park enhancements.
No work has been done on this project, so these monies are being carried forward to next year’s work plan. Quiet Zone Construction ($33,102) $ 225,000 The quiet zone study has identified the improvements required for quiet railroad crossings. It is
anticipated that the improvements for the North Wallace Avenue/L Street crossing will include an arm for the pedestrian crossing as well as raised medians on both sides of the railroad tracks to preclude vehicles from driving around down arms. Improvements to Griffin Drive, including upgrades at the railroad crossing, are now completed. Since improvements will be required for all
three crossings before a quiet zone can be implemented, it is important to undertake crossing improvements as monies are available. Engineering of improvements for the North Wallace Avenue crossing are nearing completion and a cost estimate prepared. Construction of those improvements will be completed in the next
fiscal year so the quiet zone designation can be implemented when the North Rouse Avenue railroad cross improvements have been completed.
Public Art $ 10,000
The Northeast Urban Renewal Board recognizes the artsy character of the area and, over the years, has identified the importance of acknowledging and promoting that character. The Board also has discussed various options to identify the entrances to the district, particularly at the
bridges crossing Bozeman Creek on East Tamarack Street and East Peach Street. Since those bridges were installed as part of the Montana Department of Transportation’s improvement
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2024 - 031623 3
project on North Rouse Avenue and are utilitarian in nature, monies have been budgeted for public art at those entrances. One possible option is chain link art in place of the chain link
fences at the bridge abutments. No work has been done on this project this fiscal year, and these monies are being carried forward to next fiscal year. Parking Structure $ 50,000 The Board recognizes the need for additional parking within the district and continues to monitor
the progress of any potential proposal to construct a parking structure. These monies cover the costs of retaining consultants to do due diligence to determine that this proposal is in the District’s best interests. While it appears the Cottonwood/Ida (or TinWorks) project has now been abandoned and there is
no firm plan for private construction of a public parking structure, monies are being retained in this line item for any potential response to a new proposal. Trails/Boulevards/Alleyway Maintenance $ 12,000 The Northeast Urban Renewal District completed improvements to the depot trail, depot park,
Aspen Street trail and North Church Avenue trail several years ago and continues to pay annual costs for maintenance of those amenities, including clean-up of litter along those trails and the newly constructed East Front Street trail extension. Also, weed abatement and enhancements in the alleyway public rights-of-way have been identified as important to the appearance and livability of the area.
The maintenance of trails and boulevards has continued this year, as it has in the past. The trees planted in conjunction with the street improvements are now in their third season, so it is anticipated that the watering bags will no longer be needed to ensure the viability of those trees.
Staff is to develop a plan for alleyway maintenance and enhancement of those public rights-of-way. Administrative Services ($18,700) $ 32,800 Costs covered under this item include staff support ($3,000), administrative services ($19,800) and professional services ($10,000).
Bond Costs ($46,000) $ 213,900
Costs covered under this item include bond repayment ($93,000) and the designated bond reserve ($120,900). Designated Reserve - Projects $ 292,300 At this time, it does not appear there will be adequate monies to fund construction of any
additional large scale projects. If the opportunity arises, one of the projects listed below may be moved forward and funded through this designated reserve, particularly if such a move results in significant cost savings.
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2024 - 031623 4
Northeast Urban Renewal District (NURB)
FY2024 Work Plan (July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024)
Pedestrian Bridge/East Aspen Street $ 405,037
This project will provide for pedestrian connectivity through a trail extension and a non-vehicular crossing of Bozeman Creek. The project also includes sidewalk along one side of East Aspen
Street between the creek and North Rouse Avenue. This will result in the improvements along yet another street within the district and will tie into the new improvements to North Rouse Avenue. Construction of the bridge and the sidewalk are to be completed during this fiscal year, thus
completing a project that has been on the Board’s work plan since the second year of the program. Pocket Park – North Church Avenue right-of-way design $ 25,000 Several years ago, a trail was constructed along the North Church Avenue right-of-way between East Cottonwood Street and East Tamarack Street. Under this project, that trail is to be extended
north from East Tamarack Street, with a pocket park constructed along the stream. The first step in the process is to design the trail improvements and the pocket park enhancements. Quiet Zone Construction $ 436,820 The quiet zone study has identified the improvements required for quiet railroad crossings. It is
anticipated that the improvements for the North Wallace Avenue/L Street crossing will include an arm for the pedestrian crossing as well as raised medians on both sides of the railroad tracks to preclude vehicles from driving around down arms. Improvements to Griffin Drive, including upgrades at the railroad crossing, are underway and should be completed in Fiscal Year 2022.
Since improvements will be required for all three crossings before a quiet zone can be implemented, it is important to undertake crossing improvements as monies are available.
Public Art $ 10,000
The Northeast Urban Renewal Board recognizes the artsy character of the area and, over the years, has identified the importance of acknowledging and promoting that character. The Board also has discussed various options to identify the entrances to the district, particularly at the
bridges crossing Bozeman Creek on East Tamarack Street and East Peach Street. Since those bridges were installed as part of the Montana Department of Transportation’s improvement project on North Rouse Avenue and are utilitarian in nature, monies have been budgeted for public art at those entrances. One possible option is chain link art in place of the chain link fences at the bridge abutments. Parking Structure $ 50,000
The Board recognizes the need for additional parking within the district and continues to monitor
the progress of any potential proposal to construct a parking structure. These monies cover the costs of retaining consultants to do due diligence to determine that this proposal is in the District’s best interests. Trails/Boulevards/Alleyway Maintenance $ 12,000
The Northeast Urban Renewal District completed improvements to the depot trail, depot park,
Aspen Street trail and North Church Avenue trail several years ago and continues to pay annual
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2024 - 031623 5
costs for maintenance of those amenities, including clean-up of litter along those trails and the newly constructed East Front Street trail extension. The budget also includes weekly watering of
seven newly planted boulevard trees along East Tamarack Street to ensure their survival. This is the second year of a two-year commitment to provide that weekly watering. Also, weed abatement and enhancements in the alleyway public rights-of-way have been identified as important to the appearance and livability of the area. Administrative Services $ 32,800
Costs covered under this item include staff support ($3,000), administrative services ($19,800) and professional services ($10,000). Bond Costs $ 213,900 Costs covered under this item include bond repayment ($93,000) and the designated bond reserve ($120,900).
Designated Reserve - Projects $ 95,443
At this time, it does not appear there will be adequate monies to fund construction of any additional large scale projects. If the opportunity arises, one of the projects listed below may be moved forward and funded through this designated reserve, particularly if such a move results in
significant cost savings. Northeast Urban Renewal District (NURB)
Future Projects
Trails within the district $ 200,000 The Board has determined its top priority projects for the upcoming years revolve
around trails within the district that enhance its livability and provide non-vehicular
connectivity. It was noted these are projects not likely to be part of any development
project but are desired improvements. At this time, there are no identified trail
segments, but expenditure of these monies should be considered as opportunities
arise. Also, a portion of these monies could be used to develop pocket parks, possibly
in conjunction with the trail segments.
Connector trail – Depot trail to Audubon site $ 25,000
The Audubon Society has acquired 32 acres of wetlands and sensitive lands lying east of this district and is purchasing an additional 8 acres. The subject site lies outside the boundaries of the district; however, a portion of the trail extension lies within the district; and these monies are for that portion of the trail only. This trail extension would provide a safe access for pedestrians
moving through the district to the enhanced wetlands area. Reimburse Wildlands public infrastructure $ 580,000
The Wildlands project includes expansion of the existing building at the northeast corner of the intersection of East Peach Street and North Wallace Avenue and demolition of improvements on the adjacent lot to provide adequate space for the expansion and relocation of the parking lot. The applicant has requested reimbursement for the public infrastructure improvements required
in conjunction with the project. The City Commission concurred in the Board’s recommendation to approve that request once the applicant has completed the projects and paid at least two years
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Northeast Urban Renewal Board Annual Work Plan and Budget FY2024 - 031623 6
of property taxes that equal the amount of the reimbursement. Reimburse Cloverleaf public infrastructure $2,000,000
The Cloverleaf project includes demolition of improvements of the existing buildings on the
current Bronken Distributing site, which is bounded by East Peach Street, North Plum Avenue, East Cottonwood Street and North Ida Avenue, and construction of a mixed use residential development project. In conjunction with that project, the developer will make the needed water main improvements, wastewater collection improvements, street improvements, installation of
sidewalks and installation of state of the art fiber to the site. The applicant has requested reimbursement for the public infrastructure improvements required in conjunction with the project plus the costs of the impact fees associated with it. The City Commission concurred in the Board’s recommendation to approve that request once the applicant has completed the project, with that reimbursement to be paid over several years at a percentage of the taxes paid for this
property, as those monies become available.
Front Street – Ida to Aspen $ 118,000
The off-site street improvements required for the TinWorks Project include only one-half of the Front Street improvements from North Ida Avenue eastward to East Aspen Street. This project will provide completion of the full street improvements. It be most efficiently constructed in
conjunction with the larger scale improvements that will come with the TinWorks Project improvements. Due to the applicant’s decision to not proceed with the TinWorks Project, this project might not be pursued. Front Street – Tamarack to Ida Construction $ 190,000
It would be financially beneficial to construct this improvement in conjunction with the improvements being made by the developer of the TinWorks Project. Also, it will result in more cohesive completion of infrastructure improvement within the district and will benefit the community as a whole. Included in the project will be extension of the fiber conduit installed with the East Tamarack Street improvements. Due to the applicant’s decision to not proceed with the
TinWorks Project, this engineering project might not be pursued.
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