HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-30-24 Public Comment - O. Genteman - Project Name_ 205 N Church_File #24-308From:Olivia Genteman
To:Sarah Rosenberg; Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL][SUSPECTED SPAM] Project Name: 205 N Church/File #24-308
Date:Friday, August 30, 2024 9:08:36 AM
Attachments:205 N Church Development Action.pdf
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Hello,
Please see the attached file for my official public comment in regards to 205 N Church; Filenumber: 24-308.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Olivia Genteman
618-799-6590
Dear To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed demolition of the home located at
205 N Church and the subsequent construction of a duplex with a third separate unit on the site.
While I understand the need for additional housing,I believe this development is ill-conceived
due to its location and the potential negative impacts on the surrounding community.
The proposed site for the triplex is situated in a neighborhood already experiencing significant
congestion,particularly during peak times due to traffic related to the next door church and
Hawthorne Elementary School.The increased density from the new building will exacerbate
existing traffic issues and strain the neighborhood’s infrastructure.Although N Church is one of
the wider streets in Bozeman,the surrounding streets and back alleyway are narrow and often
crowded.The influx of vehicles from up to three tenants/families (with four additional proposed
parking spaces in the back)will likely lead to gridlock,making it increasingly difficult for
residents to navigate their neighborhood.Furthermore,this alleyway is especially concerning;
during winter,it is poorly maintained and can narrow to less than 15 feet with snow piled high.
Adding multi-family housing in this area will compound traffic problems,creating hazardous
conditions for students and increasing the likelihood of accidents.The proximity to the school
already limits parking for current residents,and the extra vehicles from the new proposed
building will worsen this issue.Residents often struggle to find parking during church services,
weekends,and weekdays during the school year.The proposed development’s lack of adequate
parking provisions will further strain existing resources and diminish the quality of life for current
residents.
Additionally,I have discussed this proposed development with several neighbors,many of
whom share similar concerns.However,it has come to my attention that some residents have
not received proper mailed notice regarding the proposed demolition and construction.This lack
of notification has prevented many community members from voicing their opinions or
participating in discussions about the project.Ensuring that all affected residents are adequately
informed is crucial for a transparent and inclusive decision-making process.
On a more personal note,the property owner has not communicated with the current tenants
about the impending demolition.Yes,this is just a proposal and not fully “sealed”,but this
oversight places these tenants in a difficult and distressing position,potentially leading to
sudden housing displacement without adequate notice or support.Treating all individuals with
empathy and respect is a fundamental aspect of ethical development practices.A lack of
consideration for the renters'situation not only disregards their well-being but also undermines
the moral integrity of the development process.
In summary,while the intention behind developing new housing is commendable,the new
proposal at this location is likely to lead to increased traffic congestion,safety hazards near the
school,worsened parking issues,and concerns over inadequate notification to residents and
renters alike.A single-family home or a single,two-unit structure would be a more suitable use
of this lot,aligning better with the existing neighborhood dynamics.
I urge you to reconsider this proposal and explore alternative sites or solutions that better serve
the needs of our community without compromising its current well-being.
Thank you for considering my concerns.I hope for a decision that prioritizes the best interests of
our neighborhood.