Commission approves Hidden Creek amendment, cutting units from 596 to 545 and converting stacked flats to townhomes

The City of Gallatin Planning Commission approved Amendment No. 2 to the preliminary master development plan for the Crossings at Hidden Creek on Nov. 18, a change staff described as "minor" because it reduces overall residential density and makes modest site-layout revisions.

Planning staff told commissioners the amendment affects roughly 120 acres and specifically converts three stacked-flat buildings on the east side of phase 2 into 20 alley-loaded townhome units, removes rear parking in favor of alleys and shifts all phase-2 townhomes east to provide a buffer yard. The total unit count decreases from 596 units to 545 units as a result of the amendment.

Caleb Baker of Gamble Design Collaborative, representing applicant Randy Hoffman, said the revised layout increased parking and reduced density. "I think this is, I mean, it's hard to argue with reducing density and increasing parking," Baker said during the applicant presentation. Planning staff recommended approval of the amendment with no conditions, and the commission voted to classify the submittal as a minor amendment and approved it.

No members of the public spoke during the advertised public-comment portion specific to this item. The motion to accept the amendment as a minor amendment and to approve the amended PMDP passed on a voice vote.

Next steps: The applicant will proceed with final engineering and permitting steps consistent with the approved amended PMDP and any departmental sign-offs required prior to building permits or platting.