HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-05-26 Public Comment - C. Johnson - Flanders Mill RPPD – Request to Advance to Commission Without Further DelayFrom:Courtney Johnson
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Cc:Douglas Fischer; Joey Morrison; Jennifer Madgic; Alison Sweeney; Emma Bode
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Flanders Mill RPPD – Request to Advance to Commission Without Further Delay
Date:Monday, October 5, 2026 10:31:33 AM
Attachments:image.pngBMC §36.04.330 Bozeman MT Code of Ordinances.pdf180213 Parking Calculations Memo.pdf260512 GHS Parking District - DRAFT CODE.docxBZM RPPD Report_20210401.pdfBZM Downtown_PBZ Report_20210401.pdf240722 Resolution for Parking District.pdf
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Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Commissioners,
I am the original applicant for the Residential Parking Permit District (RPPD) adjacent toGallatin High School, submitted in July 2024. This past week, we learned that City staff
intends to delay Commission review until December, with implementation not occurring untilFall 2027. This would take a two-block RPPD into its fourth year of review and
implementation, which is longer than it took to review and BUILD the 60-acre high school...
After more than two years of participation, confidence in this public process is being lost. I am
providing the underlying documents directly to Commission so you can review the history,applicable code, prior studies, public review, and draft ordinance for yourselves. Given the
substantial delay, I will continue to document and scrutinize this process, including throughpublic records requests where necessary, and share those findings directly with Commission.
My request is simple: please support this application to proceed to Commission for a publichearing and decision without further administrative delay.
Regard, Courtney Johnson
1. The Record Exists. Why Is Commission Review Being Delayed?
This application is now in its third year of review. Residents have petitioned, provideddocumentation, participated in meetings, coordinated with the School District and multiple
City departments, and responded to requests for information.
In July 2026, the Transportation Advisory Board reviewed the application and unanimously
(4-0) recommended that it advance to City Commission.
Instead, we were informed last week that Commission review would be delayed until
December because of additional data collection and the availability of the Parking Manager.Only after I specifically asked about implementation was I informed that this schedule would
delay signage until Spring 2027 and implementation until Fall 2027 taking this applicationinto its fourth year.
That raises several basic process questions:
What additional information is required before Commission can hear this application?
Who determined that additional data collection was necessary after TAB recommendedadvancement?
What data are being collected, and which BMC §36.04.330 designation criteria doeseach data set address? See below for reference
Why were the applicant and petitioning residents not informed of this additional review?Why was this information not collected during the previous two years?
Why does the availability of one staff member prevent the elected Commission fromhearing the application and determining for itself whether additional information is
necessary?
These questions deserve clear answers before administrative delay effectively determines the
outcome.
2. The Existing Record Goes Beyond Parking Counts
This is not simply a question of parking occupancy. Its a land use tool to delineate and supportpublic safety. The number of young children and new drivers creates a substantial risk.
The original Gallatin High School entitlement record is particularly important. The 2018parking analysis described a joint-use approach involving Gallatin High School, the Sports
Park and Meadowlark and stated that it would accommodate worst-case event parking“without infringing on adjacent neighborhoods.” The condition residents are experiencing
today is fundamentally different: daily institutional parking demand extending into theadjoining residential neighborhood, parks and trails.
The City's 2021 parking-management studies are also relevant. Those reports address parkingmanagement more broadly than simply providing individual spaces and consider
neighborhood livability, safety, resident access, transportation options, and efficient use ofexisting infrastructure. It is therefore concerning that I learned in June that the Parking
Manager responsible for a significant portion of this review was not aware of those 2021reports until I provided them.
If additional analysis is now being used to justify delaying Commission review, Commissionshould know whether staff are evaluating the full record and all applicable designation criteria,
including traffic hazards, resident impacts, pedestrian and trail activity, rather than simplycollecting additional parking counts. There is not a parking shortage. On-site parking lots and
the new Sports Park Lot are significantly underutilized daily.
3. Fiscal and Staffing Assumptions Also Require Commission Review
I have also been told that administration of this approximately two-block district wouldrequire a new full-time employee and a new City vehicle, with those costs incorporated into
resident permit fees. That deserves scrutiny.
Are staffing and vehicles allocated at that same ratio within Bozeman's existing parking
districts? Is there effectively a dedicated FTE and vehicle for every two blocks of regulatedparking? If the proposed employee and vehicle would serve other districts or City functions,
what portion of those costs is actually attributable to Flanders Mill?
There is also a basic fairness question when the financial burden is proposed to fall on
residents while the impacts being managed originate from a major institutional land use.These
are appropriate questions for Commission to consider as part of its review. They should notbecome reasons Commission review cannot occur.
4. Further Administrative Delay Will Be Scrutinized
At this point, the process itself requires greater transparency.
The Municipal Code establishes designation criteria. The City has consultant guidance. Theentitlement record exists. Residents petitioned. Multiple agencies have participated. TAB
reviewed the application and unanimously recommended advancement. A draft ordinance hasalready been provided.
Yet we are now receiving conflicting information about scheduling, additional data collection,staffing requirements, fiscal impacts, and what must occur before Commission is permitted to
hear the application. If City staff continue to delay Commission review, I will scrutinize eachadditional administrative step and submit public records requests as necessary for the
communications, decisions, data, staffing assumptions, fiscal analysis, and other recordsunderlying those delays. This is not intended to circumvent the City's process. It is intended to
understand and document it.
Public trust requires accountability, meaningful citizen involvement, fair process, andconfidence that government decisions proceed through the proper channels. From thepublic side of this process, that confidence is being lost.
5. Requested Action
I respectfully request that the City:
1. Schedule Commission review without further delay. Place the review of this RPPDon the earliest available regular Commission agenda or, if necessary, schedule a specialmeeting.2. Include the first reading of the ordinance. I have provided a draft ordinance
establishing the proposed district and modeled after the existing Bozeman High SchoolResidential Parking Permit District. The draft already addresses the proposed district,
enforcement period, permits, visitor and service-provider access, signage, enforcement,and future boundary revisions. 260512 City Commission Memo DRA…
3. Install the necessary signposts before winter. If Commission ultimately approves thedistrict, physical installation should not become another reason implementation is
delayed into the following school year.
6. Please Support Commission to Make the Decision
This application is not an attempt to solve a parking shortage. There is no parkingshortage. The RPPD is a parking-management tool intended to address the impacts of a major
institutional land use on adjoining residential streets, parks and trails. Institutional parkingdemand should be managed by the institutional use rather than transferred into the surrounding
residential neighborhood.
I was the plan reviewer for Gallatin High School. It has now taken longer to processapproximately 12 regulatory signs across two residential blocks than it took to reviewand approve the annexation and entitlements for the roughly 60-acre high school
creating the institutional use we are trying to manage.
We are not asking City staff to approve this district. We are asking City staff to allow the
elected City Commission to hear the application, evaluate the record, and make the decision.
TAB has done its job.The neighborhood has done its job.Commission should be allowed to do its job.
Administrative delay should not make that decision for Commission.
Thank you,
Courtney Johnson, AIA, NCARBOriginal Applicant, Flanders Mill Residential Parking Permit District
406.579.0582courtneyjohnsonmt@gmail.com
Supporting Documents / Attachments
For Commission’s reference:
1. BMC §36.04.330 – Residential On-Street Parking Permit Regulation Program
(Attached)2. Draft Ordinance – BMC §36.04.366 – Gallatin High School Residential On-Street
Parking Permit Regulation Program (Attached)3. 2021 Residential Parking Permit District Parking Management Recommendations
(Attached)4. 2021 Downtown / Parking Benefit Zone Parking Management Recommendations
(Attached)5. July 22, 2024 Resolution of Intent – submitted to City Clerk (Attached)
6. September 25, 2024 Transportation Board - Meeting Agenda
7. September 15, 2024 Transportation Board - Work Session Memo
8. September 25, 2024 Transportation Board - Gallatin Parking Presentation
9. September 25, 2024 Transportation Board - Minutes
10. July 22, 2026 Transportation Board - Meeting Agenda11. July 22, 2026 Transportation Board - Meeting Minutes and Approval 4-0 (attached)
12. May 7, 2018 City Commission Memo Agency Exemptions Application 18085
13. 2018 Gallatin High School Parking Analysis Memo (attached)
-- Courtney Johnson, AIA, NCARB406.579.0582courtneyjohnsonmt@gmail.com
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http://www.ctagroup.com E-mail: info@ctagroup.com
MEMORANDUM
TO: Courtney Johnson, Sr. Planner, City of Bozeman
FROM: Bob Franzen, CTA
DATE: February 13, 2018
RE: Parking Analysis for the New Bozeman High School
The following is an analysis of parking spaces required by the City of Bozeman Uniform Development
Code, compared to requirements in other regional municipalities (Helena, Billings and Missoula), as
applied to the new Bozeman High School. The intent of the comparison is to identify a reasonable number
of parking spaces for a project of this type, scale, and scope.
The number of classrooms included are based on the actual count. The number of staff used are based on
proportions of the actual staff at the existing High School. The existing High School has 70 non-teaching
staff for 2,200 students or .0318 staff/student. This equates to 48 non-teaching staff at the new high school
with 1,500 students.
1. City of Bozeman Parking Analysis per Article 25, Section 38.25.010
a. Requirements – Table 38.25.040-3, Schools – Sr High
1) 1.5 Spaces per classroom/lecture hall, plus
2) 1 Space for each 5 students, plus
3) 1 Space for each non-teaching position, plus
4) 1 Space for each 3 fixed seats of public assembly or 1 space/25sf of public assembly space
non-fixed seating
b. Reductions
1) Section 38.25.040-5 (3)
a) Transit Availability 10% Reduction
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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a. Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms 114
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 Space / non-teaching position 48 Staff 48
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats 834
- Auxiliary Gyms 400 seats 134
- Auditorium 750 seats 250
Sub-Total 1,680
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -168
Sub-Total -168
Total Required Parking 1,512
3. Proposed Parking Spaces Provided
a. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot 116
3) Service Lot 11
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 613
b. On-Street Parking within 1,000ft
1) Annie Street 68
2) Flanders Mill Road 126
TOTAL ON-STREET 194
Total Area Parking Available 807
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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4. Existing High School Parking Analysis
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 130 Classrooms 195
1 Space for each 5 students 2,200 Students 440
1 Space / non-teaching position 70 Staff 70
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 1,800 seats 600
- Auxiliary Gym 307 seats 102
- Hawk Gym 476 seats 159
Sub-Total 1,566
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -157
Sub-Total -157
Total Required Parking 1,409
5. Parking Spaces Provided at Existing High School
a. On-Site Parking Lots
1) North Lot 136
2) West Lot 296
3) CTE/Service Lot 89
4) South Lot 303
5) East Lot 31
TOTAL ON-SITE 855
b. On-Street Parking within 1,000ft
1) Main Street North Side 30
2) 11th Avenue 50
TOTAL ON-STREET 80
Total Area Parking Available 935
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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6. City of Helena Parking Analysis per Chapter 22
a. Requirements – 11-22-3 High School
1) 0.31 Spaces per student
b. Reductions 11-22-9 (50% Max)
1) On- Street Frontage
a) One for one (20’ long)
2) Transit Stop (300 feet of property)
a) 20% Reduction
3) Bicycle Parking
a) 2 bicycle spaces per parking space above minimum
4) Landscaping in Lieu of Parking
a) 10% Reduction
c. Shared Parking 11-22-7 (700’ straight line distance)
1) Sports Park
d. Helena standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
0.31 Spaces for each students 1,500 Students 465
Sub-Total 465
On- Street Frontage 1220 lf -61
Transit Availability 20% Reduction -93
Sub-Total -154
Total Required Parking 311
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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7. City of Billings Parking Analysis per Chapter 6 Section 6-1203
a. Requirements – 6-1203 J High School
1) 1 space per each employee
2) 1 space per 5 students
3) 1 space per 4 auditorium seats
b. Reductions None
c. Billings standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1 Space for each employee 158 Employees 158
1 space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 space per 4 auditorium seats 750 seats 188
Total Required Parking 646
8. City of Missoula Parking Analysis per Chapter 20.60 Section 010
a. Requirements – Table 20.60-1 High School
1) 1 space per each employee
2) 1 space per 5 students
3) 1 space per 4 auditorium seats
b. Reductions None
c. Missoula standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1 Space for each employee 158 Employees 158
1 space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 space per 4 auditorium seats* 750 seats 188
Total Required Parking 646
*To be verified with local AHJ.
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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9. Joint Use of Parking Approach (Off school hours)
a. The greatest potential parking load would take place when the Gymnasiums were filled at a
maximum capacity. According to the School District, this may happen one or two times per
year. The following approach would insure that the area parking (including on-site, overflow on-
site, off-site and adjacent on street parking) would be allowed to fill the worst-case need.
b. Alternative Approach - Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms -
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students -
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff -
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats 834
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats 134
- Auditorium 750 seats -
Sub-Total 968
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -97
Sub-Total -97
Total Required Parking 871
Joint Use Parking Approach - Parking Spaces Provided
c. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot 116
3) Service Lot 11
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 613
d. On-Street Parking
1) Annie Street 68
2) Flanders Mill Road 126
TOTAL ON-STREET 194
e. Overflow Parking
1) On-site 69
TOTAL OVERFLOW 69
TOTAL AREA PARKING 876
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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10. Joint Use of Parking Approach - Stadium (Off school hours)
a. An additional parking load would take place when the Stadium was filled at a maximum
capacity. According to the School District, this may happen one or two times per year. The
following approach would insure that the area parking (including on-site, off-site and adjacent on
street parking) would be allowed to fill the worst-case need.
b. Alternative Approach - Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms -
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students -
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff -
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats -
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats -
- Auditorium 750 seats -
- Stadium 2,500 seats 834
Sub-Total 834
Transit Availability 10% Reduction 0
Sub-Total 0
Total Required Parking 834
Joint Use Parking Approach - Parking Spaces Provided
c. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot -
3) Service Lot -
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 486
d. Off-Site Parking
1) Meadowlark Parking Lot 175
2) Meadowlark Paved Parking Lot 72
TOTAL OFF-SITE 247
e. On-Street Parking
1) Annie Street 61
2) Flanders Mill Road -
TOTAL ON-STREET 122
TOTAL AREA PARKING 855
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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11. Joint Use Parking Approach Check – During Typical School Day
Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms 114
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff 48
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats -
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats -
- Auditorium 750 seats -
Sub-Total 462
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -46
Sub-Total -46
Total Required Parking 416
12. Summary
Location Gross
Spaces
Required
Reductions
Allowed
Net
Spaces
Required
Off-Site
Parking
On-Street
/Overflow
Parking
On-Site
Parking
Required
Ratio
Spaces/
Student
Bozeman (New) 1,680 -168 1,512 - - 1,512 1.008
Bozeman (Exist) 1566 -157 1,409 - - *855 .389
Helena 465 -154 311 - - 311 .207
Billings 646 - 646 - - 646 .431
Missoula 646 - 646 - - 646 .431
Joint Use Approach 968 -97 871 - 263 613 .409
Joint Use Stadium 834 - 834 247 122 486 .570
Joint Use Verification 462 -46 416 - - 416 .277
* Actual count
a. The City of Bozeman’s minimum parking requirements significantly exceed other large
communities in Montana.
b. The Joint Use Parking Approach above completes the following goals: 1) accommodates all
parking for the worst case event without infringing on adjacent neighborhoods, 2) exceeds the
required on-site parking required for a typical school day. The overflow, on-street, and adjacent
off-street parking will accommodate the worst case parking event, by providing 613 on-site
spaces and 263 on-street/overflow spaces, totaling the needed 871.
Cc: Todd Swinehart, BSD
Chuck Winn, CoB
Kyle Scar, TD&H
Scott Wilson, CTA
Wes Baumgartner, CTA
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Courtney Johnson, Sr. Planner, City of Bozeman
FROM: Bob Franzen, CTA
DATE: February 13, 2018
RE: Parking Analysis for the New Bozeman High School
The following is an analysis of parking spaces required by the City of Bozeman Uniform Development
Code, compared to requirements in other regional municipalities (Helena, Billings and Missoula), as
applied to the new Bozeman High School. The intent of the comparison is to identify a reasonable number
of parking spaces for a project of this type, scale, and scope.
The number of classrooms included are based on the actual count. The number of staff used are based on
proportions of the actual staff at the existing High School. The existing High School has 70 non-teaching
staff for 2,200 students or .0318 staff/student. This equates to 48 non-teaching staff at the new high school
with 1,500 students.
1. City of Bozeman Parking Analysis per Article 25, Section 38.25.010
a. Requirements – Table 38.25.040-3, Schools – Sr High
1) 1.5 Spaces per classroom/lecture hall, plus
2) 1 Space for each 5 students, plus
3) 1 Space for each non-teaching position, plus
4) 1 Space for each 3 fixed seats of public assembly or 1 space/25sf of public assembly space
non-fixed seating
b. Reductions
1) Section 38.25.040-5 (3)
a) Transit Availability 10% Reduction
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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a. Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms 114
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 Space / non-teaching position 48 Staff 48
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats 834
- Auxiliary Gyms 400 seats 134
- Auditorium 750 seats 250
Sub-Total 1,680
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -168
Sub-Total -168
Total Required Parking 1,512
3. Proposed Parking Spaces Provided
a. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot 116
3) Service Lot 11
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 613
b. On-Street Parking within 1,000ft
1) Annie Street 68
2) Flanders Mill Road 126
TOTAL ON-STREET 194
Total Area Parking Available 807
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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4. Existing High School Parking Analysis
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 130 Classrooms 195
1 Space for each 5 students 2,200 Students 440
1 Space / non-teaching position 70 Staff 70
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 1,800 seats 600
- Auxiliary Gym 307 seats 102
- Hawk Gym 476 seats 159
Sub-Total 1,566
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -157
Sub-Total -157
Total Required Parking 1,409
5. Parking Spaces Provided at Existing High School
a. On-Site Parking Lots
1) North Lot 136
2) West Lot 296
3) CTE/Service Lot 89
4) South Lot 303
5) East Lot 31
TOTAL ON-SITE 855
b. On-Street Parking within 1,000ft
1) Main Street North Side 30
2) 11th Avenue 50
TOTAL ON-STREET 80
Total Area Parking Available 935
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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6. City of Helena Parking Analysis per Chapter 22
a. Requirements – 11-22-3 High School
1) 0.31 Spaces per student
b. Reductions 11-22-9 (50% Max)
1) On- Street Frontage
a) One for one (20’ long)
2) Transit Stop (300 feet of property)
a) 20% Reduction
3) Bicycle Parking
a) 2 bicycle spaces per parking space above minimum
4) Landscaping in Lieu of Parking
a) 10% Reduction
c. Shared Parking 11-22-7 (700’ straight line distance)
1) Sports Park
d. Helena standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
0.31 Spaces for each students 1,500 Students 465
Sub-Total 465
On- Street Frontage 1220 lf -61
Transit Availability 20% Reduction -93
Sub-Total -154
Total Required Parking 311
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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7. City of Billings Parking Analysis per Chapter 6 Section 6-1203
a. Requirements – 6-1203 J High School
1) 1 space per each employee
2) 1 space per 5 students
3) 1 space per 4 auditorium seats
b. Reductions None
c. Billings standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1 Space for each employee 158 Employees 158
1 space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 space per 4 auditorium seats 750 seats 188
Total Required Parking 646
8. City of Missoula Parking Analysis per Chapter 20.60 Section 010
a. Requirements – Table 20.60-1 High School
1) 1 space per each employee
2) 1 space per 5 students
3) 1 space per 4 auditorium seats
b. Reductions None
c. Missoula standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1 Space for each employee 158 Employees 158
1 space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 space per 4 auditorium seats* 750 seats 188
Total Required Parking 646
*To be verified with local AHJ.
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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9. Joint Use of Parking Approach (Off school hours)
a. The greatest potential parking load would take place when the Gymnasiums were filled at a
maximum capacity. According to the School District, this may happen one or two times per
year. The following approach would insure that the area parking (including on-site, overflow on-
site, off-site and adjacent on street parking) would be allowed to fill the worst-case need.
b. Alternative Approach - Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms -
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students -
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff -
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats 834
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats 134
- Auditorium 750 seats -
Sub-Total 968
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -97
Sub-Total -97
Total Required Parking 871
Joint Use Parking Approach - Parking Spaces Provided
c. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot 116
3) Service Lot 11
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 613
d. On-Street Parking
1) Annie Street 68
2) Flanders Mill Road 126
TOTAL ON-STREET 194
e. Overflow Parking
1) On-site 69
TOTAL OVERFLOW 69
TOTAL AREA PARKING 876
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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10. Joint Use of Parking Approach - Stadium (Off school hours)
a. An additional parking load would take place when the Stadium was filled at a maximum
capacity. According to the School District, this may happen one or two times per year. The
following approach would insure that the area parking (including on-site, off-site and adjacent on
street parking) would be allowed to fill the worst-case need.
b. Alternative Approach - Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms -
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students -
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff -
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats -
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats -
- Auditorium 750 seats -
- Stadium 2,500 seats 834
Sub-Total 834
Transit Availability 10% Reduction 0
Sub-Total 0
Total Required Parking 834
Joint Use Parking Approach - Parking Spaces Provided
c. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot -
3) Service Lot -
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 486
d. Off-Site Parking
1) Meadowlark Parking Lot 175
2) Meadowlark Paved Parking Lot 72
TOTAL OFF-SITE 247
e. On-Street Parking
1) Annie Street 61
2) Flanders Mill Road -
TOTAL ON-STREET 122
TOTAL AREA PARKING 855
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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11. Joint Use Parking Approach Check – During Typical School Day
Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms 114
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff 48
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats -
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats -
- Auditorium 750 seats -
Sub-Total 462
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -46
Sub-Total -46
Total Required Parking 416
12. Summary
Location Gross
Spaces
Required
Reductions
Allowed
Net
Spaces
Required
Off-Site
Parking
On-Street
/Overflow
Parking
On-Site
Parking
Required
Ratio
Spaces/
Student
Bozeman (New) 1,680 -168 1,512 - - 1,512 1.008
Bozeman (Exist) 1566 -157 1,409 - - *855 .389
Helena 465 -154 311 - - 311 .207
Billings 646 - 646 - - 646 .431
Missoula 646 - 646 - - 646 .431
Joint Use Approach 968 -97 871 - 263 613 .409
Joint Use Stadium 834 - 834 247 122 486 .570
Joint Use Verification 462 -46 416 - - 416 .277
* Actual count
a. The City of Bozeman’s minimum parking requirements significantly exceed other large
communities in Montana.
b. The Joint Use Parking Approach above completes the following goals: 1) accommodates all
parking for the worst case event without infringing on adjacent neighborhoods, 2) exceeds the
required on-site parking required for a typical school day. The overflow, on-street, and adjacent
off-street parking will accommodate the worst case parking event, by providing 613 on-site
spaces and 263 on-street/overflow spaces, totaling the needed 871.
Cc: Todd Swinehart, BSD
Chuck Winn, CoB
Kyle Scar, TD&H
Scott Wilson, CTA
Wes Baumgartner, CTA
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Courtney Johnson, Sr. Planner, City of Bozeman
FROM: Bob Franzen, CTA
DATE: February 13, 2018
RE: Parking Analysis for the New Bozeman High School
The following is an analysis of parking spaces required by the City of Bozeman Uniform Development
Code, compared to requirements in other regional municipalities (Helena, Billings and Missoula), as
applied to the new Bozeman High School. The intent of the comparison is to identify a reasonable number
of parking spaces for a project of this type, scale, and scope.
The number of classrooms included are based on the actual count. The number of staff used are based on
proportions of the actual staff at the existing High School. The existing High School has 70 non-teaching
staff for 2,200 students or .0318 staff/student. This equates to 48 non-teaching staff at the new high school
with 1,500 students.
1. City of Bozeman Parking Analysis per Article 25, Section 38.25.010
a. Requirements – Table 38.25.040-3, Schools – Sr High
1) 1.5 Spaces per classroom/lecture hall, plus
2) 1 Space for each 5 students, plus
3) 1 Space for each non-teaching position, plus
4) 1 Space for each 3 fixed seats of public assembly or 1 space/25sf of public assembly space
non-fixed seating
b. Reductions
1) Section 38.25.040-5 (3)
a) Transit Availability 10% Reduction
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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a. Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms 114
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 Space / non-teaching position 48 Staff 48
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats 834
- Auxiliary Gyms 400 seats 134
- Auditorium 750 seats 250
Sub-Total 1,680
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -168
Sub-Total -168
Total Required Parking 1,512
3. Proposed Parking Spaces Provided
a. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot 116
3) Service Lot 11
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 613
b. On-Street Parking within 1,000ft
1) Annie Street 68
2) Flanders Mill Road 126
TOTAL ON-STREET 194
Total Area Parking Available 807
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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4. Existing High School Parking Analysis
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 130 Classrooms 195
1 Space for each 5 students 2,200 Students 440
1 Space / non-teaching position 70 Staff 70
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 1,800 seats 600
- Auxiliary Gym 307 seats 102
- Hawk Gym 476 seats 159
Sub-Total 1,566
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -157
Sub-Total -157
Total Required Parking 1,409
5. Parking Spaces Provided at Existing High School
a. On-Site Parking Lots
1) North Lot 136
2) West Lot 296
3) CTE/Service Lot 89
4) South Lot 303
5) East Lot 31
TOTAL ON-SITE 855
b. On-Street Parking within 1,000ft
1) Main Street North Side 30
2) 11th Avenue 50
TOTAL ON-STREET 80
Total Area Parking Available 935
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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`
6. City of Helena Parking Analysis per Chapter 22
a. Requirements – 11-22-3 High School
1) 0.31 Spaces per student
b. Reductions 11-22-9 (50% Max)
1) On- Street Frontage
a) One for one (20’ long)
2) Transit Stop (300 feet of property)
a) 20% Reduction
3) Bicycle Parking
a) 2 bicycle spaces per parking space above minimum
4) Landscaping in Lieu of Parking
a) 10% Reduction
c. Shared Parking 11-22-7 (700’ straight line distance)
1) Sports Park
d. Helena standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
0.31 Spaces for each students 1,500 Students 465
Sub-Total 465
On- Street Frontage 1220 lf -61
Transit Availability 20% Reduction -93
Sub-Total -154
Total Required Parking 311
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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7. City of Billings Parking Analysis per Chapter 6 Section 6-1203
a. Requirements – 6-1203 J High School
1) 1 space per each employee
2) 1 space per 5 students
3) 1 space per 4 auditorium seats
b. Reductions None
c. Billings standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1 Space for each employee 158 Employees 158
1 space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 space per 4 auditorium seats 750 seats 188
Total Required Parking 646
8. City of Missoula Parking Analysis per Chapter 20.60 Section 010
a. Requirements – Table 20.60-1 High School
1) 1 space per each employee
2) 1 space per 5 students
3) 1 space per 4 auditorium seats
b. Reductions None
c. Missoula standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1 Space for each employee 158 Employees 158
1 space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 space per 4 auditorium seats* 750 seats 188
Total Required Parking 646
*To be verified with local AHJ.
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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9. Joint Use of Parking Approach (Off school hours)
a. The greatest potential parking load would take place when the Gymnasiums were filled at a
maximum capacity. According to the School District, this may happen one or two times per
year. The following approach would insure that the area parking (including on-site, overflow on-
site, off-site and adjacent on street parking) would be allowed to fill the worst-case need.
b. Alternative Approach - Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms -
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students -
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff -
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats 834
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats 134
- Auditorium 750 seats -
Sub-Total 968
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -97
Sub-Total -97
Total Required Parking 871
Joint Use Parking Approach - Parking Spaces Provided
c. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot 116
3) Service Lot 11
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 613
d. On-Street Parking
1) Annie Street 68
2) Flanders Mill Road 126
TOTAL ON-STREET 194
e. Overflow Parking
1) On-site 69
TOTAL OVERFLOW 69
TOTAL AREA PARKING 876
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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10. Joint Use of Parking Approach - Stadium (Off school hours)
a. An additional parking load would take place when the Stadium was filled at a maximum
capacity. According to the School District, this may happen one or two times per year. The
following approach would insure that the area parking (including on-site, off-site and adjacent on
street parking) would be allowed to fill the worst-case need.
b. Alternative Approach - Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms -
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students -
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff -
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats -
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats -
- Auditorium 750 seats -
- Stadium 2,500 seats 834
Sub-Total 834
Transit Availability 10% Reduction 0
Sub-Total 0
Total Required Parking 834
Joint Use Parking Approach - Parking Spaces Provided
c. On-Site Parking Lots
1) East Lot 168
2) Northeast Lot -
3) Service Lot -
4) West Lot 235
5) Handicapped at Entry 4
6) Northwest Lot 79
TOTAL ON-SITE 486
d. Off-Site Parking
1) Meadowlark Parking Lot 175
2) Meadowlark Paved Parking Lot 72
TOTAL OFF-SITE 247
e. On-Street Parking
1) Annie Street 61
2) Flanders Mill Road -
TOTAL ON-STREET 122
TOTAL AREA PARKING 855
MEMORANDUM (cont.)
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11. Joint Use Parking Approach Check – During Typical School Day
Bozeman standards applied to the New Bozeman High School
Requirement Quantity Spaces Required Extension
1.5 Spaces per classroom 76 Classrooms 114
1 Space for each 5 students 1,500 Students 300
1 Space for each staff 48 Staff 48
1 space for each 3 assembly
- Competition Gym 2,500 seats -
- Auxiliary Gym 400 seats -
- Auditorium 750 seats -
Sub-Total 462
Transit Availability 10% Reduction -46
Sub-Total -46
Total Required Parking 416
12. Summary
Location Gross
Spaces
Required
Reductions
Allowed
Net
Spaces
Required
Off-Site
Parking
On-Street
/Overflow
Parking
On-Site
Parking
Required
Ratio
Spaces/
Student
Bozeman (New) 1,680 -168 1,512 - - 1,512 1.008
Bozeman (Exist) 1566 -157 1,409 - - *855 .389
Helena 465 -154 311 - - 311 .207
Billings 646 - 646 - - 646 .431
Missoula 646 - 646 - - 646 .431
Joint Use Approach 968 -97 871 - 263 613 .409
Joint Use Stadium 834 - 834 247 122 486 .570
Joint Use Verification 462 -46 416 - - 416 .277
* Actual count
a. The City of Bozeman’s minimum parking requirements significantly exceed other large
communities in Montana.
b. The Joint Use Parking Approach above completes the following goals: 1) accommodates all
parking for the worst case event without infringing on adjacent neighborhoods, 2) exceeds the
required on-site parking required for a typical school day. The overflow, on-street, and adjacent
off-street parking will accommodate the worst case parking event, by providing 613 on-site
spaces and 263 on-street/overflow spaces, totaling the needed 871.
Cc: Todd Swinehart, BSD
Chuck Winn, CoB
Kyle Scar, TD&H
Scott Wilson, CTA
Wes Baumgartner, CTA
July 22, 2024
Submitted To: City of Bozeman – City Clerk and Bozeman Parking Commission
From: Courtney Johnson, 991 Auger Lane, Bozeman, MT 59718
Subject: Proposed Resolution of Intent to Establish Parking Beneflt Zone - Gallatin High School
Request: The Parking Commission to review and adopt the proposed resolution to establish a parking
beneflt zone per UDC 36.04.603 for the Gallatin High School Area. The city commission hereby confers
upon and delegates to the parking commission the authority to manage parking within a parking
management district
Project Description: Proposal for the creation of a Parking Beneflt Zone around Gallatin High School to
address the daily and event-driven parking challenges impacting the surrounding community.
Project Location: Gallatin High School, located at 4455 Annie St, Bozeman, MT 59718. The proposed
zone encompasses surrounding local neighborhoods heavily impacted by parking overfiow.
1. Introduction: This proposal advocates for the establishment of a Parking Beneflt Zone (PBZ) around
Gallatin High School to address both daily and event-driven parking challenges impacting the surrounding
community. This initiative is critically needed as the current parking provisions at Gallatin High School are
insufficient to meet the needs of students and staff, leading to overfiow into adjacent neighborhoods and
altering traffic patterns. The proximity to Meadowlark Elementary School further underscores the critical
safety needs in this area. The PBZ aims to foster a partnership between the high school and residents,
reduce noise and traffic hazards, minimize litter, and ensure safety for both elementary and high school
students in a busy vehicular area.
The necessity for this PBZ was highlighted during the initial planning phases, as the district acknowledged
potential parking deflciencies. These issues are detailed in the High School Site Plan Application Agency
Exemptions (Application 18085, Meeting Date: May 7, 2018). This initiative aligns with the municipal
code’s directive in Division 3 – Parking Management Districts / Beneflt Zones, Sec. 36.04.601 of the
Bozeman Municipal Code:
“A parking benefit zone is an area of land within an established parking management district wherein the
parking commission may establish parking regulations on publicly owned land and on public rights-of-
way and streets for the benefit of the community.”
2. Justification: Daily operations at Gallatin High School consistently lead to parking overflow onto
adjacent streets, underscoring the inadequacy of the initial parking provisions. A total of 775 parking
stalls are provided on-site for a student body of 1,500 (not accounting for staff needs). Initially, the
parking issue was not prominent as the school was not fully occupied by all grades. However, as the
school reached full capacity with all grades (9th-12th), the parking deficiencies became more evident.
Additionally, the planned shared parking facilities with the City’s Sports Park, intended to add about 300
stalls, remain unbuilt. This deficiency is noted in the High School Site Plan Application Agency
Exemptions:
"Sec. 38.25.040 Zoning designations do not permit off-site parking for commercial parking use, including
PLI zoning. There will be one to two events per year that the High School would require parking beyond
those provided on-site, the calculation takes into account that attendees will park on adjacent local
streets (Flanders Mill and Annie)." (Application 18085, Meeting Date: May 7, 2018)
Timeline of Events:
• November 13, 2017 - New Bozeman High School Informal Review: Review of Application 17459,
discussing the proposed construction of the second Bozeman High School, including parking
provisions and the need for a shared use agreement with the City’s Sports Park.
• May 7, 2018 - High School Site Plan Application Agency Exemptions: Review of Application 18085,
where the district acknowledged potential parking deficiencies and sought exemptions for off-site
parking for event parking only. This included plans for shared use parking with the City’s Sports
Park and the need for pedestrian infrastructure like bridges or tunnels.
3. Initial Planning Phase Parking Deficiency: The significant parking challenges at Gallatin High School
were first recognized during the initial planning phase in 2018. The school was designed to accommodate
1,500 students but was only allocated 775 parking spaces.
a. Parking Provisions and Exemptions: Noted in the "High School Site Plan Application Agency
Exemptions" were specific exemptions sought under Section 38.25.040 of the Unified
Development Code to address the insufficiency of on-site parking by facilitating overflow on
adjacent streets during peak events.
b. Proposed Shared Use of the City’s Sports Park: The development plans included a shared
parking agreement to provide an additional 300 parking stalls. This arrangement was part of the
broader discussions in the "New Bozeman High School Informal Review" (Application 17459,
Meeting Date: November 13, 2017), which noted that the shared use agreement would need to be
completed prior to the approval of the Sports Park Master Plan amendment. The necessity for
safe pedestrian crossings over Oak Street, a significant cost not covered in the initial construction
phases, was also discussed but not funded.
c. Initial Planning Deficits: The initial parking management strategies for Gallatin High School,
which included strategic exemptions and innovative shared use plans, were designed to meet the
needs of a growing student population. However, delays and changes in the execution of these
plans, particularly regarding pedestrian infrastructure, have necessitated a revision and
adaptation of parking strategies to meet current and future needs.
4. Proposed Zone Details and Management Strategy: The proposed PBZ will encompass areas
immediately surrounding Gallatin High School, particularly targeting local neighborhoods heavily
impacted by daily parking overflow. Initial exemptions were only noted for events, not for daily overflow
parking needs. The development of this zone would adapt to the reality that shared parking facilities have
not yet been developed, necessitating a reliance on existing infrastructure beyond initial planning
exemptions.
Safety and Management - Parking Benefit Zone Regulations:
a. Daily Parking Management: Implement regulated parking within the designated zone to
effectively manage overflow needs.
b. Permit System: Introduce a permit system for off-site residential areas that prioritizes local
residents.
c. Enforcement and Monitoring: Strengthen enforcement of parking regulations to ensure
compliance and assess the effectiveness of the measures on an ongoing basis.
d. Enhanced Pedestrian Safety Measures: Install traffic calming devices and improve
pedestrian crossings to ensure safety amid increased pedestrian and vehicle movement,
especially surrounding Meadowlark Elementary and pedestrian pathways.
e. Clear and Informative Signage: Deploy signage that directs drivers to designated parking
areas and informs them of new parking regulations.
7. Comparative Analysis and Compliance Considerations: Refiect on the experiences from other
schools or districts that have faced similar challenges, adapting successful strategies to flt the local
context and regulatory framework. Both Bozeman High School and Montana State University have
established Parking Beneflt Zones.
8. Conclusion: The establishment of a Parking Beneflt Zone (PBZ) around Gallatin High School is a
critical response to the observed and anticipated parking challenges that have signiflcant impacts on
both the school community and the surrounding residential areas. This proactive measure is not merely a
solution to the current insufficiencies but also a strategic approach to futureprooflng the area against
increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic as the school reaches its full capacity. The need for such a zone
has been underscored by past planning phases, which acknowledged the parking deflcits and proposed
solutions that have yet to be fully implemented, including shared use agreements and necessary
pedestrian infrastructure.
Through the creation of the PBZ, Gallatin High School and the adjacent community will beneflt from a
managed and regulated parking system that accommodates daily needs and special events, thereby
enhancing safety, reducing congestion, and improving the overall quality of life for students, staff, and
residents. This initiative aligns with city ordinances and has been developed with considerable foresight,
refiecting a commitment to maintaining a balance between educational needs and community welfare.
Ultimately, by addressing these challenges head-on with a well-structured parking management strategy,
the city can ensure that the educational institutions function optimally without adversely affecting the
local community. This will not only resolve current issues but also set a precedent for handling similar
challenges in other areas of the city, promoting sustainable and community-focused urban planning.
9. Review Process per Sec. 36.04.603. - Parking benefit zones/creation/dissolution/parking
commission authority:
a. Adopt Resolution of Intent: The Parking Commission may adopt a resolution of intent to establish
the Parking Beneflt Zone. This step initiates the official process.
b. Notify Property Owners and Residents
c. Post Public Hearing Notices
d. Conduct Public Hearing: Host a public hearing to discuss the proposal, gather community input,
and address concerns. Collect any written protests from residents during this time.
e. Evaluate Protests and Feedback: Assess any protests received.
f. Finalize and Adopt Resolution: If protests are insufficient and community feedback has been
considered, flnalize and adopt the resolution to establish or amend the Parking Beneflt Zone. The
resolution takes effect 30 days after adoption.
g. Implement and Monitor: Begin implementation of the zone, including enforcement and permit
issuance. Continuously monitor the effectiveness and make adjustments based on ongoing
feedback.
Reference Code Sections
- DIVISION 3. - PARK MANAGEMENT DISTRICTS/BENEFIT ZONES
- Sec. 36.04.601. - Parking management districts/purpose/boundaries.
- Sec. 36.04.603. - Parking beneflt zones/creation/dissolution/parking commission authority.
- Sec. 36.04.604. - Parking beneflt zone regulations.
- Sec. 36.04.330. - Procedure for the establishment of a residential on-street parking permit
regulation program.
- Sec. 36.04.350. - Residential parking permits.
- Sec. 36.04.365. - Bozeman Senior High School Residential On-Street Parking Permit Regulation
Program.
- Sec. 36.04.360. - Montana State University Residential On-Street Parking Permit Regulation
Program.
Attachment(s):
1. BHS Residential Parking District Map (for reference)
2. Proposed GHS Residential Parking District Map
3. Notice Addresses
4. (Draft for Review) Sec. 36.04.366. - Gallatin High School Residential On-Street Parking Permit
Regulation Program.
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Sec. 36.04.366. - Gallatin High School Residential On-Street Parking Permit
Regulation Program.
A. The streets designated, pursuant to this section, as the Gallatin High School
Residential On-Street Parking Permit Program, and hereinafter referred to as "GHS
Residential District," shall be as follows:
1. South side of Tanzanite from Flanders Mill to Auger
2. East and West Sides of Auger from Tanzanite to Sunstone
3. South and north side of Annie from Flanders Mill to Auger
4. South side of Sunstone from Flanders Mill to Auger
B. It is unlawful for any person to stop, stand, or park a vehicle on any street within the
area listed in 36.04.366.A between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday
through Friday, from August 15 to June 15, except for legal holidays, except for the
following circumstances:
1. Those vehicles displaying a valid Gallatin High School residential parking
permit, a temporary HS visitor's permit for that location, or a HS service
provider permit;
2. An emergency vehicle, including, but not limited to an ambulance, fire engine
or police vehicle; or
3. A clearly marked business vehicle which is under the control of a person
providing a service to persons or property located in the GHS Residential
District, including but not limited to delivery vehicles.
C. These regulations will be enforced by the city police department and parking
services division.
D. The department of transportation and engineering will post signs in accordance with
the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices that indicate the general nature of
the restrictions and the hours and days when the restrictions are in effect.
E. Permits shall be issued for an annual permit year beginning August 1.
F. The amount of the permit fees shall be established by resolution.
G. Permits shall be issued by the city finance department. Permits may be issued for
motor vehicles only upon application by a legal resident within the GHS Residential
District who has a motor vehicle registered in the applicant's name, or who has a
motor vehicle for the applicant's exclusive use and under the applicant's control;
and satisfying the requirements of section 36.04.350.A and B.
H. No more than two visitor permits shall be issued annually to each single residential
dwelling unit for use by visitor vehicles.
I. Nonresidential uses may be provided with posted time limit parking as approved by
the director of transportation and engineering.
J. Annual visitor permits may be issued to nonresidential uses located within the
district for circumstances not otherwise provided for within this section.
K. Upon request by a resident or employer within the GHS Residential District, the city
police department may issue special gathering permits.
L. Residential permits shall become void if either the owner/operator of the vehicle
moves out of the GHS Residential District or the owner/operator of the vehicle sells
the vehicle. A permit holder who moves within the GHS Residential District or
purchases another vehicle and desires to transfer the permit must apply for such
transfer and pay the fee as established by resolution.
M. The GHS Residential District boundaries may be revised by ordinance.
A.
1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
C.
Sec. 36.04.330. - Procedure for the establishment of a residential on-street parking permit regulation program.
Pursuant to the powers granted to local governments pursuant to state law to regulate the
standing or parking of vehicles on public streets, the use of public streets and traffic upon public
streets, the city commission may, after holding a public hearing on any residential parking permit
proposal, create, pursuant to ordinance, areas of the city to be designated as residential parking
permit areas during specified times of the day and week if the city commission finds that the
residential area under consideration for such a designation is:
Predominantly residential in character;
An area the streets of which are regularly congested with vehicles parked by persons not
residing in the area; and
An area where limiting the parking of vehicles along the public streets better provides
adequate motor vehicle parking for residents of the area; and finds that the creation of a
residential parking permit area in the residential area under consideration would further one
or more of the following objectives:
Promoting tranquility among commuters and residents;
Reducing noise;
Reducing traffic hazards; or
Reducing litter.
Any ordinance designating an area of the city as a residential permit parking area shall describe:
The designated public street area along which parking will be limited to vehicles registered to
or controlled and exclusively used by persons residing in the area;
Hours of each day and days of each week that the residential parking permit regulations shall
be in effect;
The individuals eligible to purchase a permit;
Effective dates of annual permits;
Any special provisions or exceptions applicable to schools, churches, businesses, public park
use, etc. within the residential area; and
Visitor permit or special gathering provisions for the residential area.
Upon adoption of any ordinance by the city commission designating an area for residential
permit parking only, signs shall be erected along the streets identified in the ordinance prior to
any enforcement of the residential parking permit regulation pursuant to section 36.04.090. The
parking signs erected shall give notice of the general nature of the parking limitation and shall
indicate the hours and days when such parking limitations shall be in effect.
(Code 1982, § 10.32.350; Ord. No. 1345, § 1, 1992; Ord. No. 1376, § 1, 1993)
In January and early February of 2021, the City of Bozeman Economic Development Department
hosted a series of community engagement meetings to build trust between the city and residents,
and to solicit input from stakeholders on the remaining strategies of the 2016 Downtown Strategic
Parking Management Plan and recently approved Parking Benefit Zone (PBZ), which is adjacent to
downtown. Also, staff hoped to surface any additional parking management challenges the
stakeholders are experiencing. The engagement sessions were was undertaken at the direction of
both the Bozeman City Commission and the Parking Commission.
Parking management is a complex, and sometimes emotional, area of focus that must address
numerous interests and perspectives. The purpose of the engagement process was to inform all
stakeholders as to intent and desired outcomes of parking management, while ensuring that the
strategies used to reach those outcomes are informed by best practices and community input.
To accomplish this, two meetings for the Downtown/PBZ were held. The first meeting established a
common understanding of Values and Guiding Principles that define the desired outcome of parking
management. This objective information established the framework for discussion in 30-minute small
breakout sessions to compile community feedback, which was reported back to the entire group. This
information shaped the key findings, and corresponding recommended solutions, that were
presented at the second meeting for each focus area. Meetings specific to the Downtown and PBZ
discussions were conducted on the following dates. Because similar themes and challenges were
raised in the first two meetings it was decided that one Recommended Solutions meeting pertaining
to both programs would be most efficient and informative.
• January 28, 2021 -Values and Guiding Principles (PBZ)
• February 3, 2021 -Values and Guiding Principles (Downtown)
• March 8, 2021 – Recommended Solutions (Combined Downtown and PBZ)
This document summarizes information presented at these meetings with stakeholders as well as the
key challenges and concerns expressed by participants regarding the existing Downtown and PBZ
program format. Additionally, it documents the recommended solutions from the consultant team to
address expressed concerns and serves as an action plan for staff and the community to move
forward.
At the outset of the engagement process, the Bozeman Parking Handbook was created to serve as a
guide to document and communicate the community foundation, intention and desired outcomes of
parking policies. The Handbook will help facilitate decisions for future parking management policies
that will help achieve the desired values for the community.
Parking management entails far more than simply providing access to a parking stall. It is a
comprehensive system that integrates alternative modes of transportation (e.g. transit, biking, walking,
ride-share) to maximize opportunities for people to efficiently access different locations across the
city. How this system is implemented, and where investments are made, depends on a city’s set of
Values for managing growth and Guiding Principles that clearly state desired outcomes for managing
parking and transportation access; in residential neighborhoods and in commercial areas.
The intent for both Values and Guiding Principles is to establish a basis for consensus and provide the
city an evaluative filter for decision-making; ensuring that recommended actions and implementation
of city plans are shaped by adopted policy and best practices. City Values and Guiding Principles for
parking management were presented and discussed with stakeholders at the first public engagement
sessions on January 28 and February 3, 2021. These are listed below.
The following values prioritize outcomes for future city development in alignment with the city
Commission Strategic Plan adopted in 2018. A more detailed explanation of these values and specific
alignment with the Strategic Plan is provided in the Parking Handbook.
ENVIRONMENT
• Address City Climate Goals – Provide diverse transportation options (e.g. walk, bike, bus,
remote work, rideshare) to reduce climate impacts.
• Prevent Sprawl -Use land more efficiently to reduce over-building roads, infrastructure, and
parking surfaces.
• Build a Healthy Environment – Encourage walkable development patterns.
COMMUNITY
• Accessible Neighborhoods – Residents should be able to park on their street and have
guests easily visit.
• Strong Local Businesses -Businesses should have parking accessible to customers in order
to thrive.
CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY
• Public Fiscal Responsibility – Cover the costs of programs and services with appropriate
fees.
• Community Engagement – The city will employ transparent, upfront, clear communication
to gather input from the public to help shape policy.
• Equity – Public policy should strive to eliminate negative impacts on those least able to bear
costs.
Guiding Principles
City of Bozeman Parking Management I Downtown/PBZ Page 13
Parking management is intended to maximize public investments in infrastructure that align with the
established values. The following Guiding Principles for managing the public supply of parking are
reflective of priorities established in the Downtown Strategic Parking Management Plan that was
adopted in 2016. A more detailed explanation of these Guiding Principles is also provided in the
Parking Handbook.
1) Neighborhoods – The city will ensure adequate parking for residents and guests in
neighborhoods
2) Downtown – The city will ensure adequate parking for customers and visitors downtown
3) Role of Private Sector – The private sector (developers and employers) is primarily
responsible for providing employee parking.
4) Decision-Making – Objective and publicly available data and performance measures will
determine when new types of management or construction of additional supply is needed.
5) Efficiency -Unlock existing parking supply and promote use of alternative modes of
transportation. Create capacity through strategic management of existing supply (public and
private), reasonable enforcement, and integrating parking with alternative modes. The
amount of available supply is determined by two factors 1) measuring performance of the
existing parking supply through objective data collection, and 2) evaluating demand against
an occupancy standard determined by neighborhoods and the Parking Commission that
reflects the character of the neighborhood. This allows some areas to maximize the use of
parking areas, while others will retain more vacancies. On-street parking is a finite supply. By
maximizing the use of the supply, it reduces the need to build more stalls within the overall
system.
Information derived from the January 28 and February 3, 2021 breakout sessions was consolidated
into several key themes that were consistently expressed by stakeholder participants. The city believes
that this community input reflects important issues for consideration in managing the Downtown and
PBZ districts.
The following key findings and recommended solutions were presented at the March 8, 2021
Downtown/PBZ stakeholder meeting. Solutions were crafted to address specific concerns and
challenges derived from the community feedback gathered during the initial meetings on January 28
and February 3, 2021.
There were several consistent themes heard from stakeholders as to currently perceived challenges
inherent to the existing format. These challenges and desired outcomes shape the recommended
solutions outlined later in the Section – Downtown/PBZ Recommended Solutions.
Invest in Values – The city should invest in alternative transportation modes, but there is skepticism
that this value is not evident in practice. Stakeholders were supportive of the beneficial relationship
between parking management and alternative modes and are uncomfortable moving forward with
some solutions (e.g., paid on-street parking) without more commitment to planning and budgeting
for transit, biking, ridesharing, and other alternative modes.
Data – Concern that implementation of the 2016 Downtown Strategic Parking Management Plan by
staff and Parking Commission is not based on clear, objective and up-to-date data. Stakeholders see
the benefit to transparency that routine monitoring of best practice performance metrics can bring to
discussing (with the community) and implementing key recommendations within the 2016 Plan.
Prioritize Residential Parking – There was support for, and skepticism of, the Parking Benefit Zone
(PBZ) concept as a potential solution for managing parking in residential areas within the new PBZ
boundary. For stakeholders, the city must demonstrate commitment to manage to the priority
(residential parking) and mitigate potential spillover issues from downtown employees in the B-3
zone. The city must demonstrate that the PBZ program intent is not a tool to allow new development
to avoid parking code requirements at the expense of neighborhood livability and congestion. Data
and on-going collaboration between the Parking Commission and affected neighborhoods will be
important elements for addressing these concerns.
Prioritize On-Street Customer Parking – Stakeholders support the Guiding Principle that prioritizes
on-street parking in the downtown for customer access, underscoring the importance of customer
traffic to business (and downtown) vitality. There is concern regarding how the city defines "adequate
parking" as well as the process for implementing changes or for the possible transition to paid
parking. Data, transparency, and outreach/education need to be a part of the solution for managing
the on-street system.
Manage Employee Parking – Concern was expressed about use of the on-street system by
employees, which conflicts with customer need. Concern was also expressed that employees need
reasonable options, in the public supply, the private supply and for alternative modes (e.g., transit,
bike, walk, shared parking agreements, monthly permit parking in the garage). Addressing and
balancing this concern needs to be strategic; through an exploration of shared use options, education
and data.
The city wants to address the community concerns stated above and ensure that moving forward, the
downtown and PBZ's are managed and aligned with current city policy. Key city policies that may
challenge concerns expressed by stakeholders include paid parking, new supply, and spillover of
downtown demand into neighborhoods
These potential conflicts were presented to participants in the February and March 2021 public
engagement meetings. It is the intent of the solutions section proposed below that concerns can be
addressed effectively, and City policy can remain consistent and forward moving. Specific City values
and principles are clarified further below.
Manage On-Street Supply (Curb Space) More Efficiently
The city's goal is to maximize use of curb space in a manner that preserves on street parking for
customers and visitors, provides other options for employees, and mitigates spillover into
neighborhoods. The primary desired outcome is to maximize the cost effectiveness of city investment
is in the parking supply. Elements that would drive this goal include better data, outreach and
education, and coordinated use of PBZ's to manage downtown spillover into neighborhoods and
"unlock" underutilized existing supply as appropriate. Similarly, strategies that could transition more
parking areas to paid parking are key elements in the city's parking toolbox; that need to be
evaluated and implemented strategically, equitably, and transparently.
Manage Off-Street Public Supply More Efficiently
Building new supply is very expensive and the use of public dollars for parking needs to be leveraged
within the context of long-term priorities for use of the public supply to serve visitors. Similarly, there
will need to be greater reliance and investment in non-auto mode options for users. Parking cannot
be the only access solution for Bozeman.
To this end, the City will manage its existing off-street supply (i.e., the Bridger Parking Garage and
public lots) to their highest and best use and in a manner that is flexible to how demand for parking
changes over time (hourly, daily, and seasonally). Ultimately, new public supply will be influenced by
growing visitor parking demand.
The following solutions were presented at the March 8, 2021 RPPD neighborhood stakeholder
meeting. Solutions were crafted to address specific concerns and challenges derived from the
community feedback gathered during the meeting on January 28 and February 3, 2021.
Solutions are provided in an Immediate/Short-term (6 – 12 months) and Mid-term format (12 – 24
months) implementation format. Those charged with leading these efforts is provided under the
column "determination to proceed." Immediate/Short-term solutions address actions that require
minimal to moderate funding, presenting quick and timely solutions to some commonly expressed
community concerns. Mid-term solutions will require additional time and higher levels of funding and
longer-term community discussion, planning and decision-making.
Topic Description Determination to
Proceed
Demonstrate an
Investment in Values:
Integrate parking
management into broader
transportation planning to
improve access via all
modes to downtown.
Communicate existing investment in alternative
modes (transit, bike/ped projects in CIP, major road
projects)
City Management,
Public Works, Finance
and Economic
Development Staff
Demonstrate commitment to the City’s values of
alternative modes and sustainability by budgeting for
alternative modes of transportation.
City Management,
Public Works, Finance,
Economic
Development Staff –
Parking Commission
and City Commission
Collect Data Commit to key performance metrics and a collection
methodology. Commit to scheduled routine
collection that is transparent with the public. Refresh
and compare collected data with baseline to ground
and inform decisions.
Parking Services and
Strategic Services,
specifically GIS
Manage Employee
Parking
Identify Employee Parking Opportunities – Clearly
identify employee access opportunities that include
parking and alternative modes. Recognize that they
need to drive due to affordable housing issues that
won’t let them live nearby and walk or bike (parking
equity).
Parking Services and
Downtown Bozeman
Partnership
Communication/Education – Through a partnership
with the downtown association and business
champions, educate business owners and employees
regarding the importance of customer parking and
provide alternative parking options through shared
use of private lots and garage permits.
Parking Services and
Downtown Bozeman
Partnership
Topic Description Determination to
Proceed
Prioritize On-Street
Parking for Visitors and
Customers
When all the following conditions exist, then paid on-
street parking will be considered:
• Employer and employee education and outreach is
not sufficient to open up on-street parking for
visitors and customers
• Occupancy data determines that parking demand
is in excess of an established threshold (e.g., over
85% of the parking supply is occupied for extended
periods)
• Parking data determines that turnover is frequent
enough to accommodate for the cost of
implementing a paid on-street parking system
Parking Commission
Protect Residential If residents support it, and supply occupancy data Neighborhood
Parking in warrants it, the Parking Commission may propose the Residents and
Neighborhoods creation of a PBZ. If created, determine a minimum
block area to protect resident access to on-street
parking
Parking Commission
Maximize Use of Public
off-street supply
(Bridger Garage and
City Lots)
Continue to manage demand to the highest and best
use of existing off-street public parking supply based
on data.
Parking Services
Communicate and educate the public to:
• Create an objective understanding on current
garage/lot utilization
• Maximize the utilization of the City's off-street
supply 24/7
• Convey that the ultimate long-term intent for use
of the City's off-street supply is to prioritize and
ensure customer & visitor parking (i.e., "the full sign
never goes up.")
Parking Services
Explore Funding
Options for Future
Determine Need -Based on data, determine the need
to build or invest in new visitor parking supply.
Parking Services
Visitor Supply Determine Funding -If determined necessary, a new
330 stall garage would cost approximately $15 -$18M.
Define a strategic package of funding options (e.g., TIF,
land donation, facility operating revenues, paid on-
street fees, Special Improvement District). Other
options for expanding supply include adding an
additional deck to the existing parking structure ($4 -
$6M)
Parking Commission
and City
Commission
SUMMARY
City of Bozeman Parking Management I Downtown/PBZ Page 18
Community stakeholders provided valuable insights into the challenges they see for managing
parking in the downtown and in potential residential permit programs within the new Parking Benefit
Zone (PBZ) boundary. There was support for both the city's Values and its Guiding Principles for
parking management. Vital neighborhoods and a thriving downtown are common visions shared by
all participants.
The most significant underlying concern seems to be transparency in decision making and trust
between the public, Parking Commission and staff. Solutions offered by the consultant are directly
tied to addressing this concern, through commitment to providing access to downtown via multiple
modes, collaboration with downtown stakeholders, and clear measures (both parking and other
modes) which includes outreach, collaboration and education, and clear measures of system
performance to inform the implementation of strategies. Equally important was the city's continued
support of the values and goals contained in the 2016 Downtown Strategic Parking Management Plan
related to its role in parking, priority users in the public supply, maximizing existing parking supply,
and data collection.
The solutions offered here provide a means to both improve parking downtown and in adjacent
neighborhoods. They also directly address concerns expressed by stakeholders; providing a sequence
of actions that safeguard businesses, residents and users' access to information and options to get to,
and use, downtown. As with any plan, on-going communications and collaboration between the city
and stakeholders, and a commitment to data, will facilitate transparency and sound decision-making.
Parking is, and will likely continue to be, an emotional and controversial issue – in Bozeman and in
other cities around the country. In parking, it has been found that the inevitable outcome of growth is
change. Recognizing this reality and commitment to a plan that strategically anticipates change, with
objective information (data) and realistic and equitable solutions, is the key to whether a city falls
behind or leverages change to the advantage of business vitality and neighborhood livability.
In January and early February of 2021, the City of Bozeman Economic Development Department
hosted a series of community engagement meetings to build trust between the City and residents,
increase utilization of the Residential Parking Permit Districts (RPPD), and surface any challenges the
stakeholders are experiencing. The engagement session was undertaken at the direction of both the
Bozeman City Commission and the Parking Commission.
Parking management is a complex, and sometimes emotional, area of focus that must address
numerous interests and perspectives. The purpose of the engagement process was to inform all
stakeholders as to intent and desired outcomes of parking management in residential neighborhoods,
provide a space beyond the public meeting format for the community to engage with staff, Parking
Commissioners, and neighbors to learn and problem solve about RPPD issues.
To accomplish this, two meetings for residents of the RPPDs were held. The first meeting established a
common understanding of Values and Guiding Principles that define the desired outcome of parking
management in residential neighborhoods. This established the framework for discussion in 30-
minute small breakout sessions to compile community feedback, which was reported back to the
entire group. Information from this feedback shaped the key findings, and corresponding
recommended solutions that were presented at the second meeting. Meetings were held:
• January 28, 2021 -Values and Guiding Principles
• March 3, 2021 – Recommended Solutions
This report summarizes information presented at these meetings with residential stakeholders. It also
outlines the key challenges and concerns expressed by participants regarding the existing RPPD
program format. Additionally, it documents solutions recommended by the consultant team to
address concerns that were expressed and to serve as an action plan for staff and the community to
move forward.
At the outset of the engagement process, the Bozeman Parking Handbook was created to serve as a
guide to document and communicate the community foundation, intention and desired outcomes of
parking policies. The Handbook will help facilitate decisions for future parking management policies
that will help achieve the desired values for the community.
Parking management entails far more than simply providing access to a parking stall. It is a
comprehensive system that integrates alternative modes of transportation (e.g., transit, biking,
walking, ride-share) to maximize opportunities for people to efficiently access different locations
across the city. How this system is implemented, and where investments are made, depends on a
city’s set of Values for managing growth and Guiding Principles that clearly state desired outcomes
for managing parking and transportation access, in residential neighborhoods and commercial areas.
The intent for both Values and Guiding Principles is to establish a basis for consensus and provide the
City an evaluative filter for decision-making; ensuring that recommended actions and implementation
of City plans are shaped by adopted policy and best practices. City Values and Guiding Principles for
parking management were presented and discussed with stakeholders at the first RPPD public
engagement session on January 28, 2021. These are listed below.
The following values prioritize outcomes for future city development in alignment with the City
Commission Strategic Plan adopted in 2018. A more detailed explanation of these values and specific
alignment with the Strategic Plan is provided in the Parking Handbook.
ENVIRONMENT
• Address City Climate Goals – Provide diverse transportation options (e.g., walk, bike, bus,
remote work, rideshare) to reduce climate impacts.
• Prevent Sprawl - Use land more efficiently to reduce over-building roads, infrastructure, and
parking surfaces.
• Build a Healthy Environment – Encourage walkable development patterns.
COMMUNITY
• Accessible Neighborhoods – Residents should be able to park on their street and have
guests easily visit.
• Strong Local Businesses - Businesses should have parking accessible to customers in order
to thrive.
CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY
• Public Fiscal Responsibility – Cover the costs of programs and services with appropriate
fees.
• Community Engagement – The city will employ transparent, upfront, clear communication
to gather input from the public to help shape policy.
• Equity – Public policy should strive to eliminate negative impacts on those least able to bear
costs.
Parking management is intended to maximize public investments in infrastructure that align with the
established values. The following Guiding Principles for managing the public supply of parking are
reflective of priorities established in the Downtown Strategic Parking Management Plan that was
adopted in 2016. A more detailed explanation of these Guiding Principles is also provided in the
Parking Handbook.
1) Neighborhoods – The City will ensure adequate parking for residents and guests in
neighborhoods
2) Downtown – The City will ensure adequate parking for customers and visitors downtown
3) Role of Private Sector – The private sector (developers and employers) is primarily
responsible for providing employee parking.
4) Decision-Making – Objective and publicly available data and performance measures will
determine when new types of management or construction of additional supply is needed.
5) Efficiency - Unlock existing parking supply and promote use of alternative modes of
transportation. Create capacity through strategic management of existing supply (public and
private), reasonable enforcement, and integrating parking with alternative modes. The
efficient use of parking is encouraged by “unlocking” supply. The amount of available supply
is determined by two factors 1) measuring performance of the existing parking supply through
objective data collection, and 2) evaluating demand against an occupancy standard
determined by neighborhoods and the Parking Commission that reflects the character of the
neighborhood. This allows some areas to maximize the use of parking areas, while others will
retain more vacancies. On-street parking is a finite supply. By maximizing the use of the
supply, it reduces the need to build more stalls within the overall system.
Information derived from the January 28, 2021 breakout sessions was consolidated into several key
themes that were consistently expressed by stakeholder participants. The City believes that this
community input reflects important issues for consideration in managing the RPPD.
Below, these themes are summarized. Each theme is accompanied with a brief descriptive narrative to
better clarify each challenge. These challenges and desired outcomes shape the recommended
solutions outlined later in the Section - RPPD Recommended Solutions.
The following key findings and recommended solutions were presented at the March 3, 2021 RPPD
neighborhood stakeholder meeting. Solutions were crafted to address specific concerns and
challenges derived from the community feedback gathered during the meeting on January 28, 2021.
These priorities reflect important issues for consideration in managing the RPPD.
There were several consistent themes heard from neighbors as to currently perceived challenges
inherent to the existing RPPD program format. These challenges and desired outcomes shape the
recommended solutions outlined later in the Section - RPPD Recommended Solutions.
Visitor Pass Process is Challenging – Simplify and streamline the process to access visitor passes.
Transparent Fees – Current permit fees include the cost of citation labor without the benefit of
citation revenue. This may create higher annual permit costs.
Consistent Enforcement – Not clear when enforcement patrols the neighborhood and how
recurrent issues are addressed.
MSU Factor – Fraternity/sorority houses may foster long-term parking on street and game day
parking can be an issue.
“Efficiency” Guiding Principle: Residents of the MSU RPPD expressed concern around and
resistance to unlocking existing supply. Residents of the BHS RPPD shared anecdotes of
underutilized supply. There is significant variation within both RPPDs of areas with availability
of and lack of parking supply.
Safety – Include Safety as a Value/Guiding Principle in considering parking management solutions
with the following recommended language:
Parking Systems will be Safe - The on- and off-street public parking systems and
related programs will be managed to be safe, reliable, user-friendly, and attractive.
They will complement the quality of the areas/districts they serve for visitors, residents
and employees. Safety involves effective coordination of enforcement, lighting, secure
linkages between destinations and quality infrastructure (on-street, in lots, garages
and alternative modes).
The existing format of the MSU and BHS RPPD's creates conflicts with city Values and Guiding
Principles (as summarized above). The City recognizes that the two existing RPPD's were established
before adoption of the 2016 Downtown Strategic Parking Plan and the 2018 City Commission
Strategic Plan. To this end, the City wants to address the community concerns stated above in the
existing RPPD's and ensure that moving forward, future RPPD's are managed more in accordance
with current City policy.
Areas where the current RPPD format conflict with current values and principles are summarized
below. These conflicts were presented to participants in both the January and March 2021 public
engagement meetings. Further clarification of these issues is below.
Exclusive use of public right of way - The current RPPD program format only allows residents,
home offices, and guests to park on the public right-of-way. This prohibits non-residents from
parking within the RPPD boundaries. This is a format that does not conform to industry best practices
for use of the public right-of-way within a residential permit district. Best practice protocol would be
to (a) prioritize use of residential right-of-way for residents and their guests, then (b) manage that
priority through use of residential tenant/guest permits and time limited parking (e.g., 2 Hours). Time
limited parking would serve to discourage overspill of employees from adjacent commercial areas but
allow resident and non-resident visitors access to unused supply (simplifying resident guest pass need
to only long-term stays).
Equitable use of a public asset – The current RPPD format essentially treats the public right-of-way
as a private street, which is not the case within any other residential neighborhoods or managed
parking area in Bozeman (or most cities nationally). City codes can identify priority users within a
public-right-of way (e.g., transit lanes and stops, bike facilities, short versus long-term parking, etc.)
but should not prevent use of any underused supply to the general public. Priority parking within
public assets should be managed rather than reserved.
Maximizing public supply - A key goal of the strategic parking plan is to efficiently manage the
public parking supply. The exclusive use provision of the existing RPPD conflicts with this goal. Like a
reserved parking stall within a parking garage, which sits unused if the reserved permit holder is not
parking, it creates significant inefficiencies in the supply, encourages overbuilding parking and auto
use1, and denies access to other users.
Financial viability – The city's goals and principles for parking call for systems that are financially self-
supporting. Exclusive use provisions within parking systems reduce the ability to provide (and sell)
parking based on best practices for managing demand. As with maximizing the public supply,
financial viability goals result in increased revenue, better integration with alternative modes, and an
overall reduction in the amount of parking built over time. Also, in situations of exclusive use (as in the
example of reserved parking in a private garage) costs are usually higher to the user as they are
expected to pay a premium for the benefit of exclusivity. This is not the case within the current RPPD
format, nor the desired outcome expressed by the community.
The following solutions were presented at the March 3, 2021 RPPD neighborhood stakeholder
meeting. Solutions were crafted to address specific concerns and challenges derived from the
community feedback gathered during the meeting on January 28, 2021.
Solutions are provided in an Immediate/Short-term (6 – 12 months) and Mid-term format (12 – 24
months) implementation format. Those charged with leading these efforts is provided under the
column "determination to proceed." Immediate/Short-term solutions address actions that require
minimal (if any) funding, presenting quick and timely solutions to some commonly expressed
1 Exclusive use encourages driving given that as the stall is "reserved" there is no need to consider other modes
of access.
community concerns. Mid-term solutions will require additional time and funding and address
concerns that will result in better efforts at longer term community discussion, planning and decision-
making.
Topic Description Determination to
Proceed
Recognize the
Value of Safety
Update Parking Handbook with a new Guiding Principle
pertaining to safety with language provided in RPPD
Stakeholder Challenges above. Report back to community
on process and completion.
Staff
Visitor Pass Create a neighborhood focus group to design an improved
online visitor pass system. Evaluate options that include both
on-line and other format solutions. Examine and document
current flaws, evaluate capacity for changes in administrative
workflow and costs to potential options.
Staff
Consistency in
Enforcement
Improve communication from city on enforcement schedule,
and responsibilities.
Staff
Permit Fee
Transparency
Remove consideration of both citation labor cost and
revenue from permit fee amount. Only charge a fee amount
for the direct administration cost of managing and
monitoring permit system. All future parking citation labor
and revenues will be accounted for in a separate cost center
independent of parking management operations.
Parking Commission
New Residential
Parking Districts
The existing RPPD program should not be expanded as it
conflicts with city values/guiding principles. If new residential
parking management districts are desired, they should be
implemented under the Parking Benefit Zone (PBZ) code.
Residents/Parking
Commission
Topic Description Determination to
Proceed
Neighborhood
support and
funding
Members of the Inter-neighborhood Council (INC),
University Neighborhood Association, Cooper Park
Neighborhood Association, and Midtown Neighborhood
Association should present the request for additional
commitment of staff time and resources to a specific area in
the city with exclusive use of a public asset. Secure
commitment from neighborhood leadership that additional
cost of data collection will be applied to permit fee cost.
Parking Commission
and
Neighborhood
leadership
Collaborate with
MSU
Work with MSU Parking Services, INC Leadership, sororities
and fraternities to develop collaborative and realistic
solutions to parking issues in the RPPDs.
Staff
Collect Data Develop success metrics and collaboratively collect data
within the RPPD and with MSU
Staff
Implement Holistic
Management
Solutions with
MSU
City staff develops solutions based on data that achieves
desired outcomes. With data evaluate potential benefits of
strategies that might include varied/graduated permit fees
for multiple-permit dwellings, game day/event management,
and abandoned vehicles. Implementation approved by
Parking Commission.
Parking Commission
Community stakeholders from existing RPPD neighborhoods provided valuable insights into
challenges that they view within the current RPPD format. There was an overall general support for
both the City's Values and its Guiding Principles for parking management. There was also strong
support for the current operating format of RPPD's (i.e., exclusive use) and equally strong opinions
regarding the need for transparency in the program, keeping costs affordable and using data to
address on-going management and decision-making. Equally important was the City's continued
support of its values and the City's goals related to the equitable use of public assets, maximizing use
of its public supply, and financial viability.
The solutions offered here provide a means to both improve the existing RPPD format (recognizing
the unique factors that led to their establishment before adoption of the 2016 Downtown Parking
Strategic Plan and the 2018 City Commission Strategic Plan) and assure that new residential permit
districts will follow the Parking Benefit Zone format for residential permit districts recently adopted
into the City Code.
On-going communications between the City and stakeholders, and a commitment to data, will
facilitate transparency and sound decision-making.