Bozeman just officially gained its first new park using the Trails, Open Space and Parks bond funding. In December 2013, the Bozeman City Commission unanimously approved using approximately $600,000 funds from the Trails, Open Space and Parks Bond to purchase nine acres of land just north of Bozeman Pond Park. Yesterday the Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) sold the land to the City of Bozeman.

Recognizing the land as critical open space in an underserved and quickly growing part of town, the Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) purchased the land in December using financing from The Conservation Fund and privately raised funds. GVLT filled a unique role in this transaction by stepping up to swiftly purchase the land, which had other offers from residential developers, and aligned partner nonprofits to help create even greater public benefit. HAVEN has purchased 3 acres of the 12 acre parcel as a site for a future new shelter for domestic violence victims. Run Dog Run has agreed to create a fenced, off leash dog park on another portion of the park.

What’s next? The City of Bozeman has taken over ownership of the property as a city park. GVLT will remain an integral part of the next stages of the design and planning process and has long held a vision for trail and park connections in the area of Bozeman Ponds to provide recreation, transportation, and safe non-motorized routes to schools and other community services.

The City of Bozeman’s Park and Recreation Advisory Board has begun coordinating the master planning process. A public survey will be released in May and two public meetings will be held at City Hall on May 20 and May 27. The community is encouraged to participate and provide input about the development of the new parkland. An additional $400,000 of Trails, Open Space, and Park Bond funds have been allocated to improve the parkland for public use. GVLT, Run Dog Run, and other partners have matched a total of $130,000 privately funded dollars to create additional improvements in the park.

Current proposals for the park include a natural area, paved and natural surface trails, stream enhancements, picnic facilities, and a natural playground. It will also include a paved parking area and restroom facilities. Additional acreage will be dedicated to a fenced off-leash dog park. Trails will connect the current park with the newly acquired park land totaling a combined 24 acres, to create one of the largest city parks in Bozeman.

The public is invited and encouraged to participate in the master planning process. Kelly Pohl, Associate Director of GVLT, says “we’re excited that this project is moving forward so quickly. We anticipate that this park will be the first TOP funded projects that the public can use and enjoy.”

For questions or comments, please call Penelope Pierce at 406-587-8404 ext. 5 or penelope@gvlt.org.