HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-12-24 Public Comment - K. Keenan - Application # 23306From:Kelly Keenan
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Application # 23306
Date:Tuesday, November 12, 2024 6:15:53 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Bozeman City Planning Department,
I am writing as a concerned community member regarding the recently proposeddevelopment, “Range 5,” which is planned for the 20 acres just south of a local communityfarm (Application # 23306). Currently, this land is used for farming, producing alfalfa withminimal irrigation, and it features a grove of mature trees that serves as essential habitat forlocal wildlife, including nesting owls and raptors. This area of farmland, surrounded mostly byother agricultural plots, contributes significantly to the rural character, ecosystem, andagricultural economy of our valley. I drive up and down this road often, and appreciate howremoved it feels from the city environment.
While I support thoughtful, sustainable development and recognize the need for growth, thisproject raises several concerns that could negatively impact the surrounding farms and thecommunity we strive to create. I would like to highlight these concerns and ask for the city’scareful consideration of the development’s potential impact.
Key Concerns:
1. Inconsistent Density with City Growth Goals: Bozeman’s growth guidelines aim tofocus density within the city center and taper development toward rural edges. However,this development introduces high-density housing directly next to agricultural land,intensifying urban encroachment in a traditionally open, low-density area.
2. Traffic and Safety on Stucky Road: With an estimated addition of 500 to 1,000vehicles from this development, local infrastructure will struggle to accommodate theincreased traffic. Stucky Road is currently a narrow, two-lane road with no shoulders,posing a hazard for vehicles, cyclists, and farm equipment. Expanding this road orimproving access routes could help mitigate safety issues and traffic congestion.
3. Impact on Local Farm Experience and Viability: A nearby farm invites thecommunity to experience the beauty of locally grown flowers, berries, and farmproducts. The construction of a dense, three-story apartment complex immediatelyadjacent to these fields will disrupt this environment. Concerns include increased noise,potential runoff affecting soil and water quality, and blocked sunlight essential for cropgrowth.
I ask that you consider these concerns during the public comment period. I believe that athoughtful, collaborative approach can protect the agricultural heritage of Gallatin Valleywhile accommodating responsible growth. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and forconsidering adjustments that could lessen the impact of this development on surroundingfarmland. Protecting our valley’s farms benefits all members of our community, both now andfor future generations.
Sincerely,
- Kelly
----------------------------------Kelly F. Keenan
303-621-4166kelly.f.keenan@gmail.com