HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-12-25 Public Comment - C. LeCain - Fowler Project Comments 8_6_2025From:Cheri Ladd LeCain
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Cc:Mary McHugh
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Fowler Project Comments 8/6/2025
Date:Wednesday, August 6, 2025 4:11:34 PM
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To the City of Bozeman Economic Vitality Board,
As a resident and homeowner in the Harvest Creek neighborhood since 2003, I echo the
concerns that many of my neighbors are expressing regarding the proposed Fowler HousingProject.
1. Impact on Community CharacterHarvest Creek is a well-established and cherished family neighborhood. The proposed
development of this density and proximity has the high potential to disrupt the character,tranquility, and livability of Harvest Creek. My family of four has lived in this neighborhood
since 2003. My husband and I are professionals--as are our neighbors--who have worked veryhard to be able to afford a house here. We have all invested in this neighborhood by planting
trees and gardens, adding children's play structures, and making improvements to our houses.The last thing we want is for the character and the quality of our neighborhood to decline.
2. Overly Dense Development on a Small LotThe current proposal represents an extremely high-density residential project on a relatively
small parcel of land. This level of density appears incompatible with the surroundingneighborhood and raises concerns about long-term livability.
3. A Lot of Asphalt
The minimal green space planned for the project seems insufficient for a development of this
scale and does not align with Bozeman’s community values around open space. Thisdeficiency will likely place additional pressure on nearby public spaces such as Harvest
Creek's Monkey Park, impacting its accessibility and atmosphere for current users.
4. Inadequate Parking and Risk of Overflow
The current project design appears to lack sufficient parking for the number of units planned.Given that Harvest Creek already faces significant on-street parking challenges, there is little
room to accommodate overflow vehicles from the proposed development. This will onlyincrease congestion and create further strain on our neighborhood infrastructure.
5. Negative Impact of Noise, Light, and Reduced Privacy The proximity of the apartments, some with balconies, will significantly compromise the
privacy and quality of life of the multitude of current homeowners bordering the lot. Thepotential increase in lighting, foot traffic, and noise from adjacent parking areas will
negatively affect both quality of life and property values.
6. Traffic Flow and Access Points
I urge the city to restrict access to the development via Fowler Avenue and not allow traffic toroute through Harvest Creek. Our streets are already narrow and heavily used; increased traffic
from a separate development will exacerbate congestion and diminish neighborhood safety,especially the safety of the many children and pets in the neighborhood.
A plan with reduced apartment height, increased green space, and better integration withsurrounding neighborhoods would better serve Bozeman.
While the intention to provide housing is commendable, I respectfully ask the CityCommission to consider revisions to this project that balance growth with respect for existing
neighborhoods.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Cheri Ladd
3147 Rose St.
Bozeman, MT