What is the NorthTown and where is it?
NorthTown is a new community of single family homesites just north of the 9th St. terminus, intersecting with Scenic Dr. NorthTown is a 132 acre parcel annexed into the city and currently zoned R-2 for duplexes and single family homes. We are also proposing to use 5.6 acres of land (4% of the total) for rental apartments in 4-plex buildings. The remaining land will be phased in over many years for duplex and single family living.
Does Livingston really need more housing?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Livingston’s growth rate is estimated at 1.2%, adding approximately 86 new people per year. In addition, the known birth and death rates mean that approximately another 35 people are added annually to the city’s population. The total new residents per year is currently estimated at 121, though that number is certain to increase given the city’s proximity to the pricey and high demand in the Bozeman housing market, the expansion of new businesses (e.g. Murdoch’s and Printing for Less), retiree and second home demand, and other factors relating to the age and condition of Livingston’s current housing stock.
What does current zoning allow at NorthTown?
Current zoning (R2) allows for duplex and single family home construction. It is our right under existing zoning to build duplex and single family homes.
Won’t this development create more traffic problems?
Let’s face it. Traffic is a problem everywhere. But it is important to remember that Livingston’s traffic issues generally involve (1) the railroad and (2) peak demand hours at certain intersections. Livingston now averages a net gain of 121 additional persons annually, with that number (and traffic) expected to increase over the coming years. NorthTown adds needed residential for residents and newcomers, many (if not most) of whom, are already using Livingston roadways.
How does NorthTown complicate emergency safety issues for the city?
Three separate studies by city staff demonstrate that NorthTown does not impact or complicate safety issues for medical, fire and police emergencies.
What about open space? Won’t there be less open space because of NorthTown?
NorthTown was purposely annexed and zoned by the City of Livingston to accommodate the need for additional residential housing many years ago. NorthTown, and Livingston is surrounded by vast areas of open space for outdoor use by citizens. NorthTown itself will far exceed open space requirements under city ordinances.
Won’t site drainage be a problem given the terrain?
No. The city requires supervised engineering for site drainage, and we will build to city standards, confirmed by the city to improve drainage
Will NorthTown have a trail system accessible by all residents of the city?
Yes, NorthTown has been working with the city trails committee to plan and implement a trail system throughout the development. Trails will be accessible by all city residents.