Bozeman City Commission adopts Bikesville Community Park master plan after broad community support

The Bozeman City Commission on April 7 adopted a resolution approving the Bikesville Community Park master plan, voting 5–0 to convert capped landfill property to a multi‑use bike‑park and trails system.

The commission approved a conceptual park master plan presented by parks staff and partners from the Gallatin Valley Land Trust. The project is supported by more than 800 private donors and a city commitment of roughly $1.2 million, including an expected $750,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant, according to staff.

Parks planning and development manager Addie Jaden told the commission the plan balances trail infrastructure and natural‑resource protection, including protecting a core area of intact native grass and setting aside more than five acres and a 200‑plus‑foot buffer from the northern bank of Churn Creek. Adam Johnson of the Gallatin Valley Land Trust said the plan was shaped by a public engagement process that generated over 1,000 survey responses and extensive community input.

Public commenters representing local nonprofits, youth programs and conservation groups urged adoption. "Bike fill would be a huge step forward," said Molly Bowman, executive director of Bozeman Youth Cycling, who explained the park would provide progressive, skills‑building features for children and help relieve pressure on existing multiuse trails. Riley Bowman, a high‑school coach and volunteer, said a dedicated park would help younger riders build skills safely. Bill Cochran of the land trust and Joe Pugh of the Southwest Montana Mountain Bike Association emphasized the regional draw and volunteer maintenance partnerships.

Commissioners who spoke in favor cited the breadth of community partnerships, philanthropy and study of environmental concerns during the planning process. Commissioner Sweeney moved adoption; after discussion the motion passed unanimously. Mayor Joy Morrison presented the final proclamation moments earlier recognizing Equal Pay Day and then presided over the Bikesville vote.

Staff and project partners said adoption authorizes the city to proceed to more detailed site plans, permitting and construction bidding; the plan will be refined in field‑fit during the site‑plan stage and staff will post future public comment opportunities on the city's engagement website. Audubon volunteers are scheduled to conduct spring bird surveys and partners said they will continue coordination with habitat and watershed groups on revegetation and wetlands crossings.

Votes at a glance

- Approval of prior meeting minutes: passed 4–1 (one commissioner opposed) during the early agenda. - Consent agenda G1–G17: approved by unanimous roll call. - Bikesville Community Park master plan resolution: adopted 5–0. - Appointment of Grace Gilbert to the Transportation Board: approved 5–0.

The commission directed staff to refine park drawings, proceed with site‑plan review and return as required for construction entitlements and funding steps.