HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-23-09, J & D Family Minor Subdivision Park Plan Review
BozemanRecreation&ParksAdvisoryBoard
P.O. Box 1230·Bozeman, MT·59771
Park Plan Review
PLANNER: Dave Skelton
FROM:Subdivision Review Committee
J & D Family Minor Subdivision
SUBJECT:
REVIEWED ON:October 23, 2009
COMMENTS:
As a minor subdivision there is no parkland dedication requirement at this time. The
purpose of the review is to plan for future parkland in anticipation of the remainder of
the parcel being developed or sold. The undeveloped portion is zoned B-2 (community
business) and R-4 (high density residential). Assuming 12 units per acre for the high
density residential, the resulting parkland dedication requirement projects to
approximately 1.7 acres. The applicant’s proposal shows a linear park of 5.9 ±
acres. It also shows two greenway connectors to the west border of the development.
The initial question raised was should the parkland be a linear or a neighborhood park.
The importance of a trail along Baxter Creek connecting with the north/south trail
proposed in the Valley West Subdivision to the north was emphasized. Whether this
trail is on the east or west side of the creek can be examined at a later date, with the
alignment of the trail and safety of the crossing of Babcock being a principal concern.
Additionally it was suggested that an variance be made to allow a long block between
Fallon Street and West Babcock (approx ¼ mile)
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The committee feels that given the importance of the continuity of the trail corridor
along Baxter Creek and the proximity of neighborhood parks proposed in Norton East
and Valley West, and Bronken Fields to the North, and the less than 2 acre dedication
requirement, the land would be best put to use as a linear park. We envision a trail that
would occasionally expand into nodes where amenities such as benches or play
equipment could be installed.
We favor the idea of a long block, as it will cause fewer street crossings of the trail.
The east/west greenways will provide bike/pedestrian access to the west. A bridge
across Baxter Creek would provide bike/pedestrian access between the R-4 zoned and
the B-2 zoned sections of the parcel and is recommended. We would urge the
developer to request and the commission to grant this variance.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandy Dodge, RPAB Subdivision Review Committee