HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-18-24 Public Comment - J. Allison-Shamblin - Fowler Trail systemFrom:janel allison-shamblin
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Fowler Trail system
Date:Tuesday, June 18, 2024 11:43:47 AM
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There are good reasons to support designating parks or open space in the Fowler corridor that
would benefit people for many, many years to come and is an easy and cheaper way for the
city to manage the land. The NW side of town doesn't benefit as much from streams and trails
such as the Gallaghator, Sourdough, Peets Hill, and Story Mill... This is a great opportunity to
create a landmark that preserves trees, wildlife and a streamway as well as benefiting 1,000s
of residents at little or no additional cost... in fact, it will likely SAVE the city and tax payers.
Ways we can accomplish this:
Follow the template that already exists between Durston and the gravel trail that leads to
Babcock:
1. Two Lanes (no median; except where it could save trees)
2. One paved shared-use path on the West side for cyclists & pedestrians
3. Sidewalk on the East Side using existing width boulevards
4. Minimize connector streets as much as possible to preserve shared use safety
1. One shared-use path only necessitates one crossing for bike/ped at Babcock & Fowler
which:
a) adds value to the existing crosswalk for neighbors
1) flashing light activated by pedestrians/cyclists (like path to the M)
b) increases safety
c) saves money
2. Minimized road width helps preserve adequate buffer for trees & waterway:
a) canopy root ends need to be 30 ft. min. from edge of construction
b) PLIU zoning designation preserves trees for park or natural area
c) abide by SLPP 200 ft. buffer for ditches
3. To make sure this project proceeds thoughtfully, it needs ecology experts on the design
team going forward:
a) Connect the Parks Department
b) Connect Sustainability Citizen Advisory Board members
c) Connect all those engaged with the Bozeman Climate Plan