The Kalispell Planning Commission meeting on July 8, 2025, highlighted significant community concerns regarding traffic safety and property values related to a proposed apartment complex. Residents voiced their worries about increased traffic on Bluestone, a road currently lacking stop signs and speed control measures.
One resident, Ms. Pruitt, expressed her fears about speeding vehicles, noting that drivers often exceed the speed limit, creating a dangerous environment for children and pets. She emphasized that the absence of stop signs and speed bumps could lead to tragic accidents, urging the commission to consider these risks before approving the new development.
Another resident, Susan Cratt, echoed these concerns, estimating that the addition of 99 housing units could bring up to 300 new residents and potentially 200 more vehicles to the area. Cratt warned that this influx could negatively impact property values for existing homeowners nearby.
The discussions underscored the community's apprehension about the proposed development's implications for safety and local real estate. As the Planning Commission continues to evaluate the project, residents are hopeful that their concerns will be taken into account to ensure the safety and well-being of the neighborhood.