Bozeman commission adopts Phase 1 of landmark project; directs code drafting in Phase 2

The Bozeman City Commission on May 13 adopted the Phase 1 report for the Bozeman Landmark Project, sending the package into Phase 2 for code drafting and design-guideline work.

The report, produced by consultant Community Planning Collaborative and staff in the Community Development Department, recommends updates to section 38-3-40 of the Unified Development Code (the NCOD provisions), an overhaul of NCOD design guidelines and creation of a new local landmark program. Community Development Director Aaron George told commissioners that "adopting this report tonight does not necessarily mean that all future recommendations will for sure happen," and that Phase 2 will draft the exact ordinance language.

Why it matters: the Phase 1 report is a policy-level framework that would expand Bozeman's preservation program beyond the existing Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District, update nearly two-decade-old design guidance and create a locally controlled process to recognize cultural, landscape and architectural resources. Those shifts could change how demolitions, rehabilitation and new development in…