HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-13-26z Public Comment - M. Pearson - Fwd_ Fowler Housing DevelopmentFrom:Mark Pearson
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Fwd: Fowler Housing Development
Date:Monday, April 13, 2026 4:36:34 PM
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Subject: Fowler Housing Development
DATE: April 12, 2026
SUBJECT: Public Comment
Fowler Housing Development proposed
between Oak and Annie Streets
TO: City of Bozeman
comments @bozeman.net
FROM: Mark Pearson
Harvest Creek Subdivision
2942 Lily Drive, Bozeman, MT 59718
I am opposed to the City’s plan to have a residential development
that is more dense than surrounding and existing residential
developments, such as Harvest Creek Subdivision. The City of
Bozeman has a plan to place eighty-four units in greater than two-
story buildings on the relatively narrow strip of land (Fowler
Housing Development site) directly abutting the backyards of
Harvest Creek Subdivision residents. A project of this density, with
approximately eighteen units per acre, is fundamentally
incompatible with the existing and adjacent low-density residential
developments (like Harvest Creek Subdivision zoned R-1 and R-2)
surrounding the Fowler Housing Development site. The proposed
buildings are far too tall and the footprint is far too cramped for a
parcel that will only be approximately 280 feet wide (stream course
to edge of homes along New Holland Ave). This development will
result in a significant loss of privacy and property value for my
neighbors, while the inadequate parking and lack of a roadway
buffer will create a congested and loud environment. The traffic
implications are particularly troubling. The proposed density of
residential development would result in over 100 additional
vehicles adjacent to Harvest Creek, where vehicular travel would
likely increase on New Holland Ave, Farmall St, and other Harvest
Creek roads.
As a senior citizen who values the peacefulness and safety of our
streets for pedestrians and cyclists, I find the prospect of this
increased volume alarming. Additionally, I am concerned about
preservation of the water course and trees on this land. I ask that
the city pause this process and adhere to the consensus-based
engagement promised to the Harvest Creek Homeowners
Association. We need a development that reflects a lower
residential density that is compatible with Harvest Creek
Subdivision. It is worth considering the Bridger View Subdivision
model, with lower heights, significantly more green space, and
proper infrastructure that may not sacrifice the character and
livability of the established Harvest Creek subdivision. High-density
units will not fit into the character of the surrounding existing
residential development (including Harvest Creek). As mentioned
above, zoning in Harvest Creek is R-1 and R-2. I would advocate
for this level of zoning in the Fowler Housing Development site.
Also, to consider is Bozeman’s slowing growth that has created a
double digit vacancy rate (12% in latter part of 2025, BDC April 4,
2026). These vacancies exist as apartments, town homes, and
condominiums that are being constructed or have recently been
completed, all across the city and adjacent land in Gallatin County.
So, what is the rush to build more relatively high-priced residential
units? I encourage City of Bozeman to take their time, allow the
consensus process to work, and consider how new residential
developments can be in accordance with the character and zoning
of existing neighborhoods.
I am submitting this comment to the City Commission regarding
the Fowler Housing Development proposed between Oak and
Annie Streets. I am a homeowner, having lived in the Harvest
Creek neighborhood for twenty-two years.
Sincerely,
Mark Pearson