Downtown Public Comment CombinedKalispell City Council
From: Citizens for a Better Flathead <citizens@flatheadcitizens.ccsend.com> on behalf of Citizens for a Better Flathead
<citizens@fIatheadcitizens.org >
Sent: Monday, August 07, 2017 8:01 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Public Hearing for Kalispell Downtown Plan
� O1
alispell City Council,
The Kalispell Planning Board will hold for public hearing a request by the City
of Kalispell to amend the Kalispell Growth Plan -It 2035 by including "The
Downtown Plan" as a neighborhood plan within the growth policy.
The Downtown Plan sets the framework for the design and redevelopment of
Kalispell's historic downtown and courthouse corridor.
Citizens supports The Downtown Plan to foster the revitalization of the city's
historic core. We believe in rerouting Highway 93 to create a new human -
scale streetscape and reduce traffic flow for a pedestrian and bike -friendly
area that encourages the growth and sustainability of businesses within the
corridor. We believe in keeping the historic character of downtown while
preserving it for future generations through smart form -based coding. And
we believe in a strong public art program that reflects the creativity and
excitement of the city's heart.
• Click here to view the meeting agenda.
• Click here to view The Downtown Plan.
• Click here to view "Kalispell Courthouse Couplet: Traffic Engineering
Report" prepared for the Montana Department of Transportation by
Robert Peccia & Associates as presented to Kalispell City Council in
February 2017.
• Click here to view
the Daily Inter Lake's article.
• Click here to view the Flathead Beacon's article.
• Click here to e-mail your own comments.
This is a good opportunity to speak to your civic leaders and your opinion to
be heard!
Citizens for a Better Flathead
Citizens For A Better Flathead, P.O. Box 771, Kalispell, MT 59903
SafeUnsubscribeTM citycouncil@kalispell.com
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From: blems@aol.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 9:28 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Cc: gkrueger@flathead.mt.gov
Subject: Amended downtown plan, Planning Commission
Public Comments:
The three lane option for Main St from the Flathead County Court House to just south of Hwy 2 intersection
is appropriate, prudent, and enhancing for the City of Kalispell.
Given the shift of big box retail and other commercial uses to the north side of Kalispell and the development of the 93
by-pass, retaining the historic core of the city will add value to redevelopment efforts in the B3 zone. With an
infrastructure of streets, sidewalks, schools, churches, cultural institutions, trees, and parks; the city center's existing
assets should be maximized.
Ironically, the presence of the Court House smack dab in the middle of Main St encouraged the preservation of
Kalispell's older neighborhoods. It certainly is an effective traffic calming device! With its restoration and the
sympathetic development of the Flathead County campus, it is a great anchor for the downtown of the county seat.
I was amused that the County Commission sought to weigh-in on Kalispell's transportation planning. The county's track
record for forward -looking traffic planning is not a good one. With issues facing the county such as Reserve, Evergreen,
Rose Crossing, Willow Glen, Whitefish Stage, and elsewhere; it needs to work proactively on anticipating future county
transportation needs and opportunities for efficient development.
The Main St median strip should not be landscaped unless there are alternate places designated for parades and winter
snow removal. Downtown Kalispell is the best parade venue in the valley. Flexible snow removal options for city crews
are also important.
Margaret Davis, homeowner, 160 Charlotte Ave, 59901 and Lakeside
Kalispell City Council
From: Tracey Johnson <bookeepgc@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:56 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Kalispell Parking
Hi Mark,
You might remember me from baseball days (back when it was good:) (Brett's Mom).
I'm certain that this is not the way you want to receive ideas for the city - however, I'm not organized enough to present my ideas to the board, so I'll
throw them at you, and if they are good, perhaps you'll use them, if not - no worries!
I'd love to see a section of Main Street closed to traffic completely, and opened up for better browsing, social events, First Night, etc. Encourage
businesses that attract window shoppers to fill the first floor spaces and restaurants - rent discounts for the first two years, maybe? I think we would
increase our tourist shoppers, as well as residents. The additional space in front of the business could become cafes.
In the meantime, I'd love to see the section of Main Street where the parades are held, to be closed to parking for the event. As it is, people hurry to
park their cars right in front of the crowds watching the event! The Christmas parade includes people sitting in parked cars with the engines running
(to stay warm!), while everyone on the sidewalk asphyxiates! Once avid parade goers, we stopped attending because of this (well, maybe the political
entries and the business advertising was a factor as well).
There's my two cents worth of opinions!
Have a great day and keep up the terrific work keeping our city on track! You'll always have my vote.
Regards,
Tracey Johnson
�iOODALE
&BARBILTI
September 21, 2017
Mayor Mark Johnson
201111 Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Re: Proposed Highway 93 Lane Reduction
Dear Mayor Johnson,
I'm writing to you about the impact the proposed lane reduction will have on the Kalispell Center
Mall and all of downtown retail.
Prior to that discussion, I would like to thank you for your participation in the grand reopening of
the new 80,000 square foot Herberger's store in our Kalispell Center Mall, located in the heart of
downtown Kalispell.
Everyone attending the ceremony was encouraged by your important and kind words. You
mentioned, "Herberger's expansion is one of the first dominos to fall in the revitalization of
Kalispell's downtown". You were proud of Herberger's and the investment they have made in
our community and the faith they have in the citizens and future customers. You talked about
the removal of the railroad tracks and the future walking path coupled with more development
in this area. We agree with all your comments and are proud to be located in downtown Kalispell.
The Kalispell Center Mall opened its doors August 15t, 1986, and has now been open for more
than 31 years. Over the past several years, at significant cost and development, we have
resurfaced the parking lot, reroofed and replaced all the skylights and landscaping. We added
rock wainscot to the south side of the exterior, painted the exterior, remodeled the bathrooms,
and added signing. We have added numerous specialty tenants including Starbucks on the south
east side of our property. Traffic counts typical of major highways justified the expansion and
remodel of the Red Lion Hotel located in the mall. Our most recent project was the addition of
PROTESSIONAL REAL ESIAIT SERVICES
Pdaa nt, (4 09) 459 6102 e Eaa.z (509) 777-6323 * upuy ar.g_fi.aom
40,000 square feet to Herberger's and the remodeling of the stores existing 40,000 square feet.
This new 80,000 square foot department store is a major commitment to downtown Kalispell
and our entire trade area which includes Flathead, Glacier, Lake, Sanders and Lincoln counties,
as well as our Canadian friends to the north.
Over the past 31 years, the Kalispell Center Mall has contributed approximately $10,000,000 in
real estate taxes to support the Kalispell community. In addition, the City of Kalispell received a
$3,000,000 urban development action grant which the city loaned to the developer based on the
investment the developer made and the jobs created by the Kalispell Center Mall. The grant was
paid back to the city and was partially used to improve 15t Avenue West and other projects.
I mention all of this to demonstrate that the Kalispell Center Mall has been an integral partner
for the benefit of downtown Kalispell. All of the recent projects referenced above have been
completed with private funds using local contractors.
The removal of the railroad tracks will regenerate the spirit of Kalispell and allow for development
in the core area with the addition of a trail system. Already, this redevelopment has begun to
improve the downtown core. North of the tracks we have entered into a lease with Sun Rift Beer
Company who is currently under construction. The owner of Sun Rift, Craig Koontz said "The
historic beauty and setting of this development area is second to none, and we are honored to
be a part of celebrating downtown Kalispell."
North of the Kalispell Center Mall and current railroad tracks, we have been working with a large
retailer to develop a 60,000 square foot building on approximately five acres. This is a prominent
and well recognized retailer that would attract traffic into the downtown Kalispell marketplace
and would be helpful to surrounding business owners. Additionally, this retailer requires a certain
traffic count on adjacent arterials before they even consider building a store.
We are now in jeopardy of losing this prospect due to the City of Kalispell's proposed reductions
of two lanes of traffic. We have already been negatively impacted by the Highway 93 bypass. The
intent, according to our early discussions with the City, was to reduce semi -truck traffic and make
it easier for automobiles to travel through downtown, enjoying opportunities to shop and dine.
What we have found by observation is 80% of the traffic using the bypass are automobiles,
therefore bypassing downtown altogether!
The Kalispell Center Mall has been negatively impacted by this reduction in vehicle traffic. Other
retailers I have spoken to have suffered as well. The City of Kalispell is now contemplating
reducing Main Street from four lanes to two lanes of traffic, a 50% reduction. This reduction will
have severe negative impacts to the Kalispell Center Mall as well as other retailers.
Successful retail has always been a function of vehicle traffic. The first question retail tenants
asks us is, "What is the vehicle per day (VPD) count?" Enclosed is an example of a tenant's leasing
requirements; note the asterisk next to "Traffic count", a parameter included among their most
crucial requirements. Additionally, when we negotiated with Starbucks for their pad site, we
narrowly met their minimal traffic counts. If traffic is further reduced, it will create a significant
harm to surrounding retail. We will no longer meet the minimum VPD counts that will afford
Kalispell the types of retailers expected at the core revitalization. According to the Montana
Department of Transportation, after the 15Y Phase of the Bypass was completed we lost 4,470
cars per day that avoid downtown altogether.
I ask the leadership of the city to not reduce the current four lanes of traffic to two lanes. Traffic
is vital to support all retail and restaurants in the downtown Kalispell marketplace. Our tenants,
future development to the north, and all downtown retail depend on this traffic to support each
tenant's business model. Mayor, I ask that you distribute this letter to all council members so
they may gain an understanding of the significance of these lane reductions. Thank you for your
consideration.
Sincerely,
David Peterson
Executive Vice President & COO
Goodale & Barbieri Co.
DAP/crm
Enclosure(s): 1
Cc:
Kari Gabriel, Kalispell City Council Member
Sandy Carlson, Kalispell City Council Member
Wayne Saverud, Kalispell City Council Member
Chad Graham, Kalispell City Council Member
Jim Atkinson, Kalispell City Council Member President
Rod Kuntz, Kalispell City Council Member
Tim Kluesner, Kalispell City Council Member
Phil Guiffrida, Kalispell City Council Member
Tom Jentz, City of Kalispell Planning & Building Director
Eric Peterson, Kalispell Center Mall Manager
9/19/2017
Darden Restaurants Inc.- Plain Vanilla Shell
i Ufa 4��
Darden RestaUrants Inc.
1000 Darden Center Drive
Orlando, FL 32837-4032
Mailing Address
PO Box 695011
Orlando, FL 32869-5011
Phone: (407) 245-4000
Fax: (407)245-5627
Website: wmv.drardenrestaurants.com
Corporate Email: drlydeninfo@d<arden.com
Real Estate Email: rea0est;ataaCc"� dare en,corn
Public Company
Stock Symbol
Market
Total stores
Operating or trading name/Stores/GLA
Preferred GLA
Retail classifications
Locations considered
Percent of stores in centers or malls
Preferred co -tenants
Number of new units planned
Remodels planned
Y
DRI
NYSE
1,704
Bahama Breeze
Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
Eddie V's
Longhorn Steakhouse
Olive Garden
Seasons 52
The Capital Grille
The Yard House
Wildfish
5,500 - 8,600 sq. ft.
restaurants/bars
165 stores 7,800 sq. ft.
15 stores
483 stores
843 stores
37 stores
3 stores
enclosed super regional mall, enclosed regional mall, power center, pad site/outparcel, lifestyle center,
downtown/central business district, freestanding, airport/transportation center
60-79
all considered
2017:31-33
2017:200-210
Preferred lease terms/renewal options 10 yr. w/4 5-yr. opt.
If the company will also purchase locations Will also purchase its operating locations
Minimum o —f 0�0
Yeaff
e count s eh p 0-150,000 Ina radius of 5 mile(s)
9 w slanl,j t 75,00
(V icles erda
nd sae 6: $6,933,500,000
05/15: $6,764,000,000
05/14: $6,285,600,000
Area(s) of operation (number of stores) AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO,
MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT,
WA, WI, WV, WY, Canada
Area(s) targeted for expansion All USA, Canada
Countries targeted for expansion
Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Japan, Malaysia, Panama
Seeking disposal of excess space no
Company Executives
Chairman: Charles Stonsteby
PresidentlCOO/CEO: Eugene Lee, Jr.
President, Bahama Breeze: John Wilkerson
President, Longhorn: Todd Burrowes
President, Olive Garden: David C. George
President, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen: Ian Baines
President, Seasons 52: Brian Foye
President, The Capital Grille and Eddie V's: John Martin
President, Yard House: Michael Kneidinger
SVP/CFO: Ricardo Cardenas
President, International Operations/SVP,Franchising: Michael Beacham
Executive VP, Operations (Olive Garden): Dan Kiernan
Senior Vice President/Treasurer: Bill White
Senior Vice President, Corporate Controller.- John Madonna
Senior Vice President, Development (Olive Garden): Jo El Quinlan
Senior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer: Doug Milanes
Senior Vice President, Chief Development Officer. Rich Renninger
Senior VP, Group Human Resources: Ron Bojalad
Senior Vice President, Human Resources: Daisy Ng
Sr. Vice President, Human Resources (Olive Garden): Theresa Willings
SVP, Human Resources (Specialty Retail Group): Paula Manchester
http://Www.plainvanillashell.com/display_profile.asp?account=l 8450
1/2
RifR . . . . . . . . . . .
FOOD & Rx
'Mayor Mark johnson
2011 Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Dear Mayor Johnson,
itfol $1111, "Awl!
I- w1l,
Respectfully,
1114
ikff Philipps
President CEO
cc-, City Council Members
October 12, 2017
WELCOME
Mayor Mark Johnson
201 1"Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Dear Mayor Johnson,
Recently, I was made aware that the City of Kalispell is considering reducing traffic lanes through
g
downtown from four to two. This reduction will again push more traffic to the Truck By -Pass
which harms our ability to achieve the growth necessary for the -success of our Kalispell store.
When Highway 93 was widened and improved several years ago, our company contributed
significantly to the improvements by providing funding for the installation of traffic lights at the
intersection of Kelly Road and Highway 93. We made this and other investments based on the
belief that we would experience growing traffic numbers past our location.
Thanks to the citizens of the Flathead Valley and beyond, we have enjoyed success in Kalispell
for over two decades. We are very proud to be part of and contribute to such a terrific community.
Over the years we have invested heavily through the initial construction of our store and then
subsequent remodels, additions and acquisition of property g surroundin our store to accommodate
further expansion. Investment of this magnitude requires sales growth to cover the inc
q gr erred
overhead. A reduction in traffic through the downtown corridor will hamper our success and make
e
it even more difficult to compete with retailers north of town.
Please reconsider your support for this initiative.
Respectfully,
.Rick Ungersma
?--resident CEO
Kalispell City Council
From: Jeff Lamoreaux <spcjeff@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, October 23, 2017 3:56 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Downtown Kalispell Plan
Dear City Council,
While I understand the reasoning behind the Downtown Kalispell Plan I cannot envision a successful outcome in reducing Main Street to three lanes. Traffic is
already a problem on Main Street so creating gridlock does not sound like a viable solution. I imagine the end goal is to bring more people downtown to shop. That
is great, but if drivers are forced to deal with gridlock and difficult parking the exact opposite will occur. This will force people to avoid downtown at all costs. This
has been the result for many with the recent change to Third Avenue East. Turning a single lane one way into a two way street is a recipe for disaster. After many
near collisions I now avoid that street like the plague. Maybe that was the goal, but I doubt that is what you are striving for on Main Street. I love seeing more
businesses open on Main Street so limiting the number of potential customers to the area seems counter -productive. If the biggest problem is parking then seek
out a solution that makes the most sense ... a parking garage.
Thank you,
Jeff Lamoreaux
Kalispell City Council
From: M.E. Lab <info@melab.us>
Sent: Tuesday, October 24, 2017 8:31 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Downtown plan
No angled parking!
No corner pop outs to make it hard to turn right!
The best thing you can do is to aggressively push the East side bypass from four corners to Snappys.
That would significantly cut traffic down.
Spending millions on screwing up downtown is a really BAD idea.
Jon Cuthbertson
Montana Environmental Laboratory
K LISRELI...
om
BOARD OFFICERS
November 1,2017
]peCadmna6
cooirnon
Mayor Mark Johnson and Members ofCity Council
Bob Herron
Kalispell City Hall
Wce[ho/nnon
201First Avenue East
DaveHmrgmshwimer
Kalispell, K8ontana59901
SeoetunfTremsumr
'
Lisa Brown
Subject: Comments for the Public Hearing onthe Downtown Plan
Past Choir
JoeUnfteneine,
Dear Mayor Johnson and Members ofCity [oumci|:
0nbehalf ofthe 72Smembers ofthe Kalispell Chmmber/Convendonand Visitor Bureau,
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jaynnc,unk
we would like to offer some comments and overall support for the vision of the Draft Kalispell
DawnHend,ickson
Downtown Plan. This letter will supplement our letter ofJuly 11, ZU17written tothe Kalispell
MarkHwns|*y
oouoHoutz
Planning Board for their public hearing onthis topic, VVecontinue believe that the City has a
Mark Johnson
historic opportunity to further add to a vibrant downtown that includes new offerings for dining,
9utchLalacpmbe
Mike Nye
my�
entertainment, retni|,commercia|' and residential »pace� We look forward 1osuppo�ingthe City
8HanPe|c
and advancing this vision for investment, jub4increased1ourism,and|ivabiUty.
MnhaPhelps
Torn Ray
MikeSmbh
Parking. Our members consistently 0stparking asanarea ofneeded improvement for
CourtenmySprunger
Laura Taylor
downtown. The Plan gives consideration to several afternatives (pages 32-33) for funding a
Ka,yTonjum
parking structure. These ideas, as well as elimination of obsolete curbs cuts, are worth pursuing.
7aganVinv
Rick Weaver
Jimvvrioht
Residential. Urban residential development should begiven atop priority. By
Jnoeasimgdovvotom/n residents, the City can help create the demand that will support retail,
EX-OFFIC10 DIRECTORS
dining, entertainment, and service retail businesses, Housing demographers say residential
Jesse Davis
products like townhomes, conclorniiniums, and mixed -use developments in city centers, will grow
MarkF|atau
JaneKaos
iodemand inthe years ahead, These housing types are indemand for downsizing seniors and
Mike Pence
younger buyers who enjoy urban amenities. Cities like Los Angeles, Portland, and Spokane are
Doug Russell
creating incentives 10 reward developers for building new residential units downtown an a
strategy for creating vitality and building the tax base incity centers.
PROGRAMS
FatheadArea Youn9
Historic Design Standards. Amarea ufconcern for our members are the potent�a|new
Professionals
-
historic design standards and how they might be implemented (pages 26-28). Kalispell has
KaUspeU[onvem�on
significant stock ofhistoric commercial structures, and is classified as a historic district,
&VlsiwrBwvoav
Nevertheless, overly cumbersome and restrictive historic design regulations have the potential to
KaUspe||[hamber
impede investment in an environment that is already fundamentally more challenging for all the
Fovndatinn
reasons detaiWinour July 11letter.
Lwadeoh;pF|athead
Streamlining Approval Process. Arecent Chamber luncheon speaker, the execmt�ve
Manufacturers Alliance
director mfthe Denver Urban Renewal Authority, cited the City ofDenver's efforts to streamKine
the construction approval process as key factor in creating deve�opmnemt-friend|y
environment atCtyHall. We encourage the City to look at ways this might be implemented in Kalispell, Support
for streamlining should not be construed as advocacy for �g,noring Montana laws and regulations.
Coordinating Plans. The Downtown Plan, and the Core Area Plan are different, but inextricably linked.
Every effort should be made to coordinate and leverage the two plans for maximum benefit to residents and
visitors. lndeed, a recent meeting at City Hall with downtown planning conSUitants noted that walking/biking
traffic expected on the trail is a potential source of new foot traffic for Main Street.
Tourism. Tourism bastrong economic driver for Kalispell and the Flathead Valley. Adowntown that has
a unique character, inviting aesthetics, and is pedestrian friendly will elevate its viability as a destination. Visitors
are attracted toquaint and charming small towns that are active and »�bent. VVesupport the development of
amenities such as outdoor and indoor gathering spaces for expanded year-round events, aesthetics such as public
art and landscaping, and broader entertainment opportunities availa,ble into the evening.
Reconfiguration ofMain Street. Perhaps the area ofthe Plan that has received the most attention isthe
redesign of Main Street (pages 1620). Because ofits importance to the overall plan and toour membership, me
have visited with many ofour members most dimobyimpacted bythe proposal toreduce the configuration cf
Main Street from 4-oanesto2|ancswith acenter turn lane. Additionally, meheld forums and work sessions onthe
draft plan, including two luncheons prograims attended by nearly 500 members and a presentation to our board of
directors onAugust Z9.
Our membership is split on the Main Street reconfiguration proposal. Seve4 businesses are on record as
opposed Lolane reduction, contending that reducing traffic w0|reduce their retail sales and negatively impact the
City'sability to attract new tenants and retailers downtown. Several commented that they want both a
pedestrian -friendly Main Street and steady growth imsales. Still others questioned ifthe timn�ngisright for the
proposed change, suggesting that the south half of the Kalispell Bypass should be widened and the Willow Glen
alternative route completed before any changes are made on Main Street downtown. VVeencourage the City to
give further consideration to this issue and the pubkc comment you wilt receive at the hearing on November 6,
Conclusion. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Downtown Plan and the effort that went
in,to creating a Osion for the future of the urban center of Kalispell, and we look forward to hearing from the public
Monday night.
Warm Regard
O
/ I Chamber of Commerce
vention and Visitor Bureau
Founded in2904, the Kalispell Chamber consists of 725members and has served as the
official non-profit tourism orgamizotion representing the City of Kalispell since 1987.
(November 2, 2017
Red Lion Hotel Kalispell
20 [North Main
Kalispell, MT 59901
406-751-5064
Mayor Mark Johnson
201 Is'Ave East
Kalispell, MT 59901
RE: Downtown Plan — Highway 93 Lane Reduction
Mayor Johnson,
The City is at a historical and critical timeframe regarding our downtown to provide a vision for the long-
term sustainability of its character. It should be commended of your efforts to propose a plan that can
be evaluated and commented on.
The hotel and Kalispell Center Mall has been a participating player in downtown for over 30 years. The
whole project has invested and contributed significantly over these years to help promote our location,
downtown Kalispell. In the 1980's, it was seen as an opportunity and continues to be our objective to
see downtown be successful.
In regards to the section of the plan that proposes changing the Main Street from 4 lanes to 2 lanes with
a turn lane is of concern. with the growing number of vehicles each year, even with the by-pass, there
is a need to have traffic pass the doors of the business community of downtown. There hasn't been
enough time in front of us to see the effects of the by-pass or what the Willow Glen alternative route
will do regarding traffic flow to the center of town. A vision/plan needs to be in place of how to market
downtown when these two components are at their fullest.
encourage you to seek alternative to accomplish the downtown plan without reducing the lanes in the
middle of town. I'm very concerned that the reduction of lanes would have a negative impact on our
ability to attract business to the hotel.
Warm Regards,
General Manager
____
Chamber of Commerce
Convention & Visitor Bureau
2017
BOARD OFFICERS
November 1, 2017
Joe Carbonari
Chairman
Mayor Mark Johnson and Members of City Council
Bob Herron
Kalispell City Hall
Vice Chairman
201 First Avenue East
Dave Hergesheimer
Kalispell, Montana 59901
Secretary/Treasurer
Lisa Brown Subject: Comments for the Public Hearing on the Downtown Plan
Past Chair
Joe Unterreiner
Dear Mayor Johnson and Members of City Council:
President/CEO
On behalf of the 725 members of the Kalispell Chamber/Convention and Visitor Bureau,
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jason Crank
we would like to offer some comments and overall support for the vision of the Draft Kalispell
Dawn Hendrickson
Downtown Plan. This letter will supplement our letter of July 11, 2017 written to the Kalispell
Mark Hensley
Doug Houtz
Planning Board for their public hearing on this topic. We continue believe that the City has a
Mark Johnson
historic opportunity to further add to a vibrant downtown that includes new offerings for dining,
Butch Laracombe
Mike Nye
entertainment, retail, commercial, and residential space. We look forward to supporting the City
Brian Pelc
and advancing this vision for investment, jobs, increased tourism, and livability.
Maria Phelps
Tom Ray
Mike Smith
Parking. Our members consistently list parking as an area of needed improvement for
Courtenay Sprunger
Laura Taylor
downtown. The Plan gives consideration to several alternatives (pages 32-33) for funding a
Kary Tonjum
parking structure. These ideas, as well as elimination of obsolete curbs cuts, are worth pursuing.
Tager Vine
Rick Weaver
Jim Wright
Residential. Urban residential development should be given a top priority. By
increasing downtown residents, the City can help create the demand that will support retail,
EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS
dining, entertainment, and service retail businesses. Housing demographers say residential
Jesse Davis
products like townhomes, condominiums, and mixed -use developments in city centers will grow
Mark Flatau
Jane Karas
in demand in the years ahead. These housing types are in demand for downsizing seniors and
Mike Pence
younger buyers who enjoy urban amenities. Cities like Los Angeles, Portland, and Spokane are
Doug Russell
creating incentives to reward developers for building new residential units downtown as a
strategy for creating vitality and building the tax base in city centers.
PROGRAMS
Nathead Area Young
Historic Design Standards. An area of concern for our members are the potential new
Professionals
historic design standards and how they might be implemented (pages 26-28). Kalispell has a
Kalispell Convention
significant stock of historic commercial structures, and is classified as a historic district.
& Visitor Bureau
Nevertheless, overly cumbersome and restrictive historic design regulations have the potential to
Kalispell Chamber
impede investment in an environment that is already fundamentally more challenging for all the
Foundation
reasons detailed in our July 11 letter.
Leadership Flathead
Manufacturers Alliance
Streamlining Approval Process. A recent Chamber luncheon speaker, the executive
director of the Denver Urban Renewal Authority, cited the City of Denver's efforts to streamline
the construction approval process as a key factor in creating a development -friendly
15 Depot Park I Kalispell, MT 59901 I (P) 406-758-2800 1 (F) 406-758-2805 I www.kalispellchamber.com
environment at City Hall. We encourage the City to look at ways this might be implemented in Kalispell. Support
for streamlining should not be construed as advocacy for ignoring Montana laws and regulations.
Coordinating Plans. The Downtown Plan and the Core Area Plan are different, but inextricably linked.
Every effort should be made to coordinate and leverage the two plans for maximum benefit to residents and
visitors. Indeed, a recent meeting at City Hall with downtown planning consultants noted that walking/biking
traffic expected on the trail is a potential source of new foot traffic for Main Street.
Tourism. Tourism is a strong economic driver for Kalispell and the Flathead Valley. A downtown that has
a unique character, inviting aesthetics, and is pedestrian friendly will elevate its viability as a destination. Visitors
are attracted to quaint and charming small towns that are active and vibrant. We support the development of
amenities such as outdoor and indoor gathering spaces for expanded year-round events, aesthetics such as public
art and landscaping, and broader entertainment opportunities available into the evening.
Reconfiguration of Main Street. Perhaps the area of the Plan that has received the most attention is the
redesign of Main Street (pages 16-20). Because of its importance to the overall plan and to our membership, we
have visited with many of our members most directly impacted by the proposal to reduce the configuration of
Main Street from 4-lanes to 2-lanes with a center turn lane. Additionally, we held forums and work sessions on the
draft plan, including two luncheons programs attended by nearly 500 members and a presentation to our board of
directors on August 29.
Our membership is split on the Main Street reconfiguration proposal. Several businesses are on record as
opposed to lane reduction, contending that reducing traffic will reduce their retail sales and negatively impact the
City's ability to attract new tenants and retailers downtown. Several commented that they want both a
pedestrian -friendly Main Street and steady growth in sales. Still others questioned if the timing is right for the
proposed change, suggesting that the south half of the Kalispell Bypass should be widened and the Willow Glen
alternative route completed before any changes are made on Main Street downtown. We encourage the City to
give further consideration to this issue and the public comment you will receive at the hearing on November 6.
Conclusion. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Downtown Plan and the effort that went
into creating a vision for the future of the urban center of Kalispell, and we look forward to hearing from the public
Monday night.
Warm Refard
e lJ errEVer, President and CEO
Iis ell Chamber of Commerce
vention and Visitor Bureau
Founded in 1904, the Kalispell Chamber consists of 725 members and has served as the
official non-profit tourism organization representing the City of Kalispell since 1987.
Kalispell Brewing Company
412 Main St.
PO Box 1886
Kalispell, MT 59901/3
Tel 406.756.2739
maggie@kalispellbrewing.com
kalispellbrewing.com
NOVEMBER 3, 2017
Mayor Mark Johnson
201 1st Ave E, Kalispell, MT 59901
Dear Mayor Mark Johnson,
After reviewing the Downtown Plan for Kalispell, we would like to respectfully submit our comments. First
of all, we are largely supportive of the plan and are excited to see continued revitalization, growth, and
economic development occur in downtown Kalispell. We hope that you and the members of City Council
will acknowledge that we, as both business owners and as residents living in downtown, are committed to
the success of our city. The components of the plan that we are most eager to see come to fruition are the
proposals to create a more pedestrian friendly town and increase the town's charm. For example, we are
highly in favor of the bump outs, widening the sidewalks, and pedestrian -scaled traffic lights. However, we
are greatly concerned about the reduction of traffic lanes as part of the proposed plan.
In 2012, we invested heavily in downtown Kalispell, and spent more than two years significantly renovating
one of Kalispell's oldest buildings to create the city's first craft brewery before opening our doors in the
summer 2014. Because of a brewery's impact on a city's wastewater system, we were charged $45,000 in
impact fees, and had to redesign our building plans to accommodate a 2-chamber clarification tank, install a
computerized wastewater monitoring system, and pay for periodic testing services, all to the tune of over
$10,000. After these significant costs, we still chose to do business in downtown without any incentive or
tax abatement. We did this because we see the value in operating a brewery in downtown, and feel that
strong communities are built upon a vibrant mix of downtown businesses. While we fully recognize the
concerns with traffic in downtown, we are more concerned with what will happen to downtown and Main
Street businesses like ours if the traffic lanes are reduced by 50%. While we feel that a craft brewery can be
viewed as a destination, we still rely heavily on traffic numbers and the ease of access for our customers to
find our location. If the plan were to go forward as is, what would the City of Kalispell do to help promote
and market downtown to attract visitors to Main Street?
We feel that more information on traffic studies and urban planning studies are needed. Additionally, we
would like to see an evaluation of traffic numbers and counts since the implementation of the US Highway
93 by-pass before this component of the plan is approved. Without sufficient urban planning studies, and
an analysis of what happens to downtowns likes ours when traffic lanes are reduced, we fear that we, along
with every other downtown business will suffer a great loss.
At this time, we ask that the City reconsider the traffic -lane reduction as part of the plan. We feel that the
City could take other significant measures like the ones we mentioned above to help reduce traffic noise
and volume without dramatically reducing access to downtown. One of our many challenges as a small
business on Main Street is to attract customers to our brick -and -mortar store over chain retailers located
on the north end of town. We do not want to cause any further barrier to the development and growth of
downtown Kalispell.
We appreciate your consideration and support. Cheers to all of us working hard and smart to bring Kalispell
into a new era.
Warm regards,
Maggie Doherty & Cole Schneider
OWNERS, KALISPELL BREWING COMPANY
cc: City Council Members
Page 2
Judi Funk
From: Jay Burgess <lemans@bresnan.net>
Sent: Friday, November 03, 2017 12:56 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: downtown plan
I am a resident of Kalispell and want to give you my input on the proposed downtown plan regarding Highway 93. 1
urging the council to abandon the proposed 3 lane highway 93 change. Highway 93 needs to be left as a 4 lane road and
expanded to 4 lanes on the east side of the courthouse. Reducing the highway to 3 lanes will only cause frustration from
both residents and tourists with the traffic issues this would cause. A 3 lane road would have an adverse effect to
downtown Kalispell, not improve downtown Kalispell. I have discussed this proposed change with numerous local
residents and everyone I have spoken with thinks the 3 lane proposal is a bad idea.
Jay Burgess
146 Greenbriar Drive
Kalispell
Kalispell City Council
From: Carla Kelly <ckelly@aboutmontana.net>
Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 7:56 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: The downtown
This is one of the worst blunders the city can make. We are not the small city that existed in the 40'&50's . I strongly oppose this idea. Also think returning
3rd&4th to 2 way is again a major blunder.
Carla Kelly
740 parkway dr.
KAlispell Mt 59901
Sent from my iPad
Kalispell City Council
From: Jennifer Curtis <j.e.curtis@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 3:00 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Downtown plans
Dear City Council,
Thank you for your attention and dedication to matters that we face as a city. I understand that there is a meeting tonight in which the plan for
downtown will be discussed. Though I cannot attend, I did want to express a few thoughts. As someone who has intentionally chosen to live
downtown, the vitality of downtown is important to me. Each time a new business opens or moves downtowns, it feels like a win for our city, as if
the business world is also discovering the energy of our great town.
I've been rather distracted that last 10 months, but when I checked in with a friend about the downtown plans, I was surprised to hear that there has
been minimal (if any?) urban planning studies done before we make this huge investment.
I grew up on the East coast, in a city which spent my entire childhood and young adulthood trying to revitalize the downtown area. All their attempts
failed to work. As I talked with my mother about this, she said that she remembered her childhood, and the unease the adults in her family had when
the city decided to build a bypass to redirect traffic from the heart of downtown. The intentions were good, but such a re-route ultimately re-routed
people from accessing downtown.
I am no way an expert on this topic.
I believe if we want what is best for downtown, though, we should put the brakes on and consult some experts before moving forward. I would be
happy for my tax dollars to go toward that.
Please let me know if I have misinformation and there indeed have been urban planning studies completed. I would be interested in learning where I
could find their results.
Thank you so much for your consideration; thank you for your service!
Jen Parsons
1004 Second Ave E
Kalispell, MT 59901
Kalispell City Council
From: Aimee Brunckhorst
Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 2:19 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: FW: Downtown plan
-----Original Message -----
From: Katy Meyers [rnailtcr. katymeyers7C_�grrrail :cerrr]
Sent: Monday, November 6, 2017 12:34 PM
To: Kari Hernandez <khernandez(ckalsell:cr>
Subject: Downtown plan
The future of Kalispell downtown is very exciting indeed! I think that a parking garage would be a great idea. We could perhaps learn some things from Whitefish
in this area. For instance their top floor parking now needs a solution for snow removal and they are exploring ways to do this that use the least energy. If a
parking garage does make it into the final plan please make sure it has several electric vehicle charging spots!
Thank you.
Katy Meyers
116 Moe's Run
Kalispell, MT 59901
November 6, 2017
Mayor Mark Johnson
201 15t Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Dear Mayor Johnson and Members of Kalispell City Coiuncil,
Citizens for a Better Flathead appreciates this opportunity to comment on The Downtown Plan
amendment to the Kalispell Growth Policy. Our organization was founded in 1992 and we
represent some 1500 supporters throughout the county. Our mission is to foster
citizen participation and champion sustainable solutions needed to keep the
Flathead ecologically and economically healthy.
Citizens supports The Downtown Plan to foster revitalization of the Kalispell's historic core. We
believe in rerouting Highway 93 to reduce traffic flow and create a new human -scale
streetscape for a pedestrian and bike -friendly area that encourages the growth and
sustainability of business within the corridor. We believe in keeping the historic character of
downtown while preserving it for future generations through smart, high -quality design
standards. And we believe in a strong public art program that reflects the creativity and
excitement of the city's heart.
We believe what's being missed in some of the comments in front of you today is that The
Downtown Plan would be an amendment to the Kalispell Growth Policy — Plan -It 2035. A policy
developed with the community and adopted by Council to lay out a framework to guide growth
in and around the City for the next 20 years.
Within that policy you speak of five key projects "that will have a tangible, positive impact on
the citizens of Kalispell." They are:
• the Core Area Plan
• The Downtown Plan
• the South Kalispell Urban Renewal Plan
• the Kalispell Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan
• the Kalispell Transportation Plan Update
These are plans the City has meant to interact with each other holistically, not as stand-alone
elements. To judge The Downtown Plan without taking into account the other four is narrow
sighted and would stunt the entire vision. We believe some of the opposition to The Downtown
Plan would be less direct if future conversations between the City and community stakeholders
would address how these smaller projects would help address the larger picture.
We know traffic counts are important to Mr. David Peterson, EVP & COO of Goodale & Barbieri
Co, developers and managers of the Kalispell Center Mall. But could the Core Area Plan also
help address his concerns?
We know traffic counts are important to Mr. Jeff Philips, President, CEO of Rosauer's and Mr.
Rick Ungersma, President, CEO of Murdoch's. But could the South Kalispell Urban Renewal Plan
also help address any of their concerns?
I don't know, but their concerns are valid. It's important for all stakeholders to talk, listen, and
explore the possibilities, and how best any potential negative effects can be mitigated to serve
the larger community.
Further, plans and models developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s can't be relevant for
today or 20 years from now. They need to be revised and adapted for new generational shifts —
new ways thinking and behaving. The people just born as these plans were put together will be
approaching 50 years of age in 2035, with a new generation following right behind.
Citizens believes that this new thinking and behavior favors a city that is compact, human
scaled, has a slow speed center. A city that is a destination that promotes the gathering of
people — for healthy economic, social, cultural, and civic engagement. We don't believe a four -
lane highway through its core as a means of channeling large levels of traffic from one end of
the corridor to the other works for that vision. Traffic only increases. And along with it more
noise, more congestion, more pollution, and less safety for passengers and pedestrians alike.
We favor rerouting Highway 93 traffic so that the zipper that has created a west side of Main
Street and an east side be closed and downtown can start to become whole.
The downtown core should be designed for happy people, not happy cars. In that light, Citizens
envisions a downtown core that people travel to and not through. A downtown core that
fosters pedestrian use and safety for its residents and visitors first. We encourage that
sidewalks be well maintained not only in the downtown area but in the surrounding
neighborhoods, and the building of sidewalks in areas where there aren't any —such as the
west side of town — so that all residents can feel safe walking to and from downtown.
Citizens would like to see less impactful means of transportation promoted. We support well -
marked bike lanes that will connect to a larger trail system — not just east -west, but north -south
too. But cars will also be a means to get to downtown so adequate parking must be provided to
allow people to leave their automobiles, walk, and spend time downtown. We not only
encourage angle parking when feasible, but also that it be back -in angle parking. Such parking
not only offers the safety of better visibility of pedestrians and bicyclists, but better visibility
when the driver pulls into traffic again.
Streets should be active. Dead spots should be considered in balance with store fronts that
remain lively after work hours, which could inhibit the evening scene we're looking to foster.
And consideration be given to identifying streets in the downtown area that could be
temporarily closed for different events — fairs, festivals, farmers' market, etc.
We applaud the celebration of our heritage. And how, through The Plan, downtown Kalispell
will expand upon its existing aesthetics to create someplace special and unique. We encourage
high -quality architectural standards that should maintain downtown's historical theme. We ask
that signage be added to this list — discouraging neon signs, bus stop plexiglass advertising, etc.
— again to preserve and maintain the historic and visual fabric of downtown.
Public art speaks to the creativity and vibrancy of our area and we support the encouragement
of public/private partnerships as ways to fund the creation and display of art in the downtown
area. But if there will be a public component in the selection of public art, Citizens asks for a
jury process with participating community members making the final selections.
We acknowledge the thought and work that City staff has put into The Downtown Plan. We
appreciate your efforts, and the comments expressed by the community at large. We also know
that the goals and guidelines as stated in The Downtown Plan are just the beginning of this
process. We look forward to being part of the conversation moving forward as more detail is
fleshed out as to how The Plan will be implemented.
Council members, your support is critical in developing our historic downtown where the
people who live, work, and play can do so as a community and in safety. If Whitefish can work
to have a healthy core center. If Columbia Falls can work to revitalize their core center. Why
can't Kalispell?
Thank you...
Kalispell Tourism Business Improvement District
November 3, 2017
Mayor Mark Johnson and Members of City Council
Kalispell City Hall
201 First Avenue East
Kalispell, Montana 59901
Subject: Comments for the Public Hearing on the Downtown Plan
Dear Mayor Johnson and Members of City Council:
The Kalispell Tourism Business Improvement District board of directors is pleased to submit comments
and overall support for the draft City of Kalispell Downtown Plan. We are encouraged that City staff and
Council are placing a renewed focus on downtown Kalispell and creating a vision for responsible growth
and viability.
Tourism is a major economic driver for Kalispell and the Flathead Valley. The annual TBID marketing
plan, implemented by the Kalispell CVB, serves to influence travel to Kalispell. Beyond the draw of
Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake visitors are attracted to northwest Montana to enjoy quaint and
charming small towns that are active and vibrant. A downtown that has a unique character, inviting
aesthetics, and is pedestrian friendly is elevated in its viability as a destination.
Restoring US 93 Highway corridor in downtown Kalispell to Main Street: The TBID board supports
maintaining the courthouse couplet as a two-lane traffic circle with one lane on the north and one lane
on the south. TBID members have varied opinions on the concept of reduced lanes on Main Street. The
group does unanimously agree that Main Street should never be expanded to more than four lanes.
We support other proposed enhancements in the plan that would serve to create an improved sense of
community and place for Main Street:
• lobby for the completion of the southern half of the bypass to direct truck traffic on that route
while not discouraging locals or visitors to bypass downtown.
• widen sidewalks to accommodate a mix of activity
• increase outdoor and indoor gathering spaces for expanded year-round events
• increase landscaping and gathering areas such as pocket parks
• incorporate pedestrian -scaled street lighting and improve pedestrian access and safety
• work to incorporate bicycle lanes, bike routes and bicycle facilities into the main street corridor
• incorporate traffic calming techniques to enhance pedestrian safety
• strengthen the linkage between the Core Area, Main Street from Center to 71" St East, as well as
the south downtown area between the County courthouse and the south entrance to the bypass.
15 Depot Park, Kalispell, MT 59901
Kalispell Tourism Business Improvement District
Convenient parking for business community and visitors: it is important that the downtown core has
well -identified parking within the corridor of Main Street and First and Second Avenues to be used by
visitors and locals partaking in downtown businesses, events and amenities. We encourage the City to
develop plans to better manage downtown employee parking.
Business development and redevelopment: We support the City's vision to offer incentives to
encourage historic fagade and exterior amenity improvements, and to identify opportunities to expand
entertainment options in downtown. We encourage the preservation, conservation and adaptable
reuse of historic buildings. The TBID supports the restoration of the historic Opera House which could
serve as a much needed indoor event venue in Kalispell.
A unique and identifiable image for downtown Kalispell: The TBID marketing plan promotes Kalispell
as 'located in the heart of the Flathead Valley offering best -of -Montana experiences in every direction
combined with abundant shopping, terrific dining, cultural attractions, a 'shop local' historic downtown,
as well as memorable events for a mix of city comfort and outdoor wonder'. Maintaining the historic
character of downtown while improving the charm and vibrancy of Kalispell will serve as an increased
draw for visitors. We agree that the development of aesthetics such as public art, informational kiosks,
banners strung on Main Street announcing upcoming events, returning the farmer's market to
downtown, and the enhancement of Depot Park to serve as a main gathering point for downtown will
position downtown Kalispell as one of those destination small towns in western Montana. We
encourage the City to consider how downtown Kalispell can be marketed and promoted as a
destination.
The TBID board of directors appreciates the commitment of the City staff and Council to create a vision
for downtown. Kalispell is one of the major destinations in Montana to visit, live, work and play.
Creating a stronger sense of community in the downtown core will secure economic vitality for our city
for years to come.
Regards,
Kalispell Tourism Business Improvement District Board of Directors
Dawn Hendrickson, Chair, Homewood Suites
Zac Ford, Vice -Chair, Hampton Inn
Janet Clark, Treasurer, Kalispell Grand
Lisa Brown, Red Lion Hotel
Shawn Campbell, America's Best Value Inn
Emily Schroeder, Hilton Garden Inn
Dan Moderie, Super 8
15 Depot Park, Kalispell, MT 59901
Kalispell City Council
From: Lavonne Larson <lavonnelarson3l@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, November 07, 2017 9:00 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Highway 93 proposal.
City Council,
I am sending my position on the proposal by the council on the highway 93 corridor thru Kalispell.
I like the four lanes design now in place.I urge the council to work together with the Mt.Highway Department.
As much as you would like to go back to two lane, angle parking it is not possible to serve our way of living now.
I suggest the City Council plan adequate off street parking for the public to access the downtown businesses.
Please consider my position.
Lavonne Larson
162 East Nicklaus Ave.
Kalispell,Mt. 59901
City Council Public Hearing
RE: Downtown Plan
November 7, 2017
Dear City Council Members and Mayor Mark Johnson,
My name is Karen Sanderson. I own the business Brix Bottleshop, and the building at 115/117
S. Main Street. Thank you for your time and dedication to Kalispell.
The first time I glanced at the downtown plan, I loved it. I didn't know all the details but the
overall vision for downtown Kalispell and the grand efforts to pull it together was very
impressive. This month, I read and heard concerns about the plan, but only regarding the traffic
reconfiguration. So, last night I re -read the plan and spent more time analyzing the details. I
see that this plan is not just about traffic reconfiguration, but it is an overall long-term vision,
and I LOVE it.
I love the plan's focus on parking, land use, and creating an entertainment district. I love that
the goal is to revive Main Street's character and offer financial tools to assist in making
improvements. More green, more people, more investment? Less semi -trucks, and slower
speed? Yes. I also love the idea of reducing the 4 lanes to 3. I know some have concerns about
this concept, but if we can make it work, then why not? I am 100% on board with this plan.
Ever since Montana Coffee Traders moved in next door, our sales have gone up. It has only
been 2 weeks and we are already twice as busy on Saturday mornings. This is something fellow
BID member Jon Fetveit calls, "critical mass." The idea of "build it and they will come" is
happening all along Main and it is very exciting. I spoke with Austin today and he said MCT also
supports this plan. We can't even imagine how much more our businesses will grow once
someone moves into the current vacant spaces. We already see more people walking down the
sidewalks. Wouldn't it be great to have wider sidewalks for these shoppers? Room to put
merchandise outside in the summer? More restaurants with more outdoor seating? Yes, it
would. I don't understand how anyone could be opposed to this fantastic vision for Kalispell.
Our neighbor, RMO, is also in favor of this plan.
My cousin Ed Wells owns the Depot in downtown Missoula. I recently asked him about his
opinion of Missoula's change from 4 lanes to 3 on Higgins. He said he was opposed to the idea
at first, but then it happened anyway. Now that it's done he loves the changes. Their business
sales have remained the same if not gone up, and the new Farmer's Market has been hugely
successful. I could go on and on about other cities that I have researched who succeed in higher
populations, higher traffic counts, on highways with only 2-3 lanes, butyou have already done
this research, so I will not.
You are voting on a fantastic vision and I look forward to your vote yes.
Thank you,
Karen Sanderson
Brix Bottleshop
Kalispell City Council
From: Moriah Miller <jerrysgirlmoriah@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 08, 2017 12:51 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Downtown plans...
To whom it may concern,
I was not able to make it to the meeting on Monday, but I would like to put in my "two bit's" as the saying goes. I saw Montana once on the
television when I was a child, and I knew this is the place I wanted to move. The day after my 18th birthday I moved here on my own and have been
here for the past 22yrs. I have seen a lot of changes in that time!
As a member of this great town, I'd like to say that I am very excited to see the changes to downtown! It will be great for the businesses there,
and I can't wait to bring family and friends from out of state and show them our beautiful town! Please pass the plans!!!!!!!!
Thank you for your time,
Moriah L. Miller
Kalispell City Council
From: Rick Hoylman <richard59901@excite.com>
Sent: Tuesday, November 07, 2017 10:51 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: main street plan
I think turning main street into a two lane road would be a horrible idea. The traffic at Main and Idaho is horrible now in the summer time with waits of three to
four cycles of the traffic light to get through this intersection. I can't imagine what it will be like if you funnel all the traffic into two lanes. And how would they
remove the snow on Main street, now it is pushed into the center of the road and removed with a blower attached to a loader. If a median is installed the loader
can't straddle the median to remove the snow. Also I am curious as to who was surveyed in the "extensive community survey" as quoted from the Daily Inter
Lake article, I have asked several people and no I've asked was questioned on the plan? A project of this magnitude MUST be put to a vote of the tax payers of
Kalispell, and NOT be decided by a small group of people who think they know what the citizens want . PS Third and fourth ave east STINK for driving on,
stop&go stop&go.
RICK HOYLMAN
Kalispell City Council
From: woody <bronco60@comcast.net>
Sent: Wednesday, November 08, 2017 10:44 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Comments re The Downtown Plan
Dear City Council,
I strongly agree with the comments of your Planning Director, Tom Jentz, as quoted in the Beacon article of November 1. 1 admire the long-suffering merchants
who have put up with this traffic nightmare for so long. The historic downtown needs to be traffic -calmed so that it becomes, once again, a flourishing,
attractive place for businesses, patrons and visitors. Thank you, in advance, for approving this long -overdue and welcome improvement.
Woody Nedom
Bigfork
Kalispell City Council
From: dblankl@cyberport.net
Sent: Thursday, November 09, 2017 7:55 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: comment on downtown plan
Dear City Councillors,
Please approve the downtown plan. I want to be able to do business and shopping in Kalispell by walking, not driving, and to feel safe crossing the street.
Sincerely,
D. L. Blank
Kalispell City Council
From: jevonclark@bresnan.net
Sent: Sunday, November 12, 2017 1:48 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Downtown plan
Dear Mr. Saverud and Kalispell City Council,
I'm a resident in Ward 2 and I own a business south of downtown on Airport Road. I am writing to express my views about the current proposal for
the future of Main Street in downtown. I do not pretend to know the correct answer to this plan, just wish to throw in a few points on the issue.
I am the most pro -small business person you will ever meet and I recognize it is a delicate balance to provide the opportunity for small business by
improving the atmosphere of downtown (whatever on earth that really means) but not choking vehicular traffic to the point of vehicle avoidance
thereby making moot the very goal of the plan, delivering more people to the downtown business community.
I quote from page 13 of the plan, "Main Street is currently experiencing high levels of through car and truck traffic, much of which has no specific
reason for being within the downtown area." For this example let's assume that statement is true. Then why is that traffic there? Either it has to be
there or the traffic chooses to be there. Based on the assumption of the plan "they have no specific reason for being in the downtown area" that then
implies that traffic must "have to be" there. Choosing to be present downtown would imply a reason to be there. Ah, so if the traffic has to be there
that indicates no desirable or suitable alternative for traffic. Note, that is not to say there is no other way around downtown, just not a desirable way
around (the "market" for traffic dictates it). That IS one of my points. Decreasing lanes of traffic will not further disincentivize drivers to be
downtown any more than they are already disincentivized to be downtown.
Instead, great businesses downtown would create the reason for the traffic to be there! If much of the through traffic has "no reason to be present",
then they are not patronizing any specific business. By definition, the business is not present to patronize or else the traffic would have a "reason to
be in the downtown area". It is the market that drives business, not the business atmosphere or specific traffic at any one area. We have an example
just north of downtown that proves the very fact that even during high -traffic times drivers are obviously currently not disincentivized to be
present. That is outlined in the following.
Compared with most of the world our traffic problems in Kalispell are small. That said, I know that all of us have traveled downtown during the
week between the hours of 3:00 and 6:00 pm. It seems that especially during the summer tourist season it can be a nightmare; stoplight to stoplight
congested and stopped traffic from the Courthouse to Idaho Street and beyond. That traffic congestion probably does influence people's decisions to
go downtown, but I cannot imagine that it negatively affects that decision any more than the traffic from FVCC to Reserve Street at the same time of
day negatively influences that same driver of shopping in those areas. Specifically, Hutton Ranch and all of the other great commercial development
north has created a largess of traffic but I would hazard that the very traffic does not in the least disincentivize people from going to that area to
shop. Quite the opposite; the ton of traffic present is because there are businesses there that people wish to patronize. Wherever a business is
located, if people wish to patronize it they will go to it! The market always dictates.
Here's my second point. If the city wishes to improve the business atmosphere and business market downtown then incentivize business and don't
disincentivize traffic patterns. "Traffic" isn't the problem, "volume" isn't the problem, "congestion" is the problem. Before expanding sidewalks,
limiting lanes of traffic (making congestion worse), and planting trees, use those finances as tools to give existing and future businesses incentives,
create more marketability and remove barriers to recruit some awesome small businesses that have both a market and a patronage to join and
complement the current downtown community. When marketable businesses succeed downtown then everything else will follow.
Good luck in your decision!
Jevon Clark
173 Buffalo Stage
Kalispell City Council
From: Mary Ann Garner <mary.garner@comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, November 09, 2017 8:13 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Comments re The Downtown Plan
Dear Council Members,
Too many small towns deteriorate when big box stores and strip malls are developed. I support the revitalization plan with one question — where is there
convenient parking for the downtown stores besides along the street?
Mary Ann Garner
PO Box 9796
1045 2nd Avenue East
Kalispell MT 59904
406-257-6444
rcb734@fastmail.fm
November 11, 2017
To the Members of the Kalispell City Council:
I would like to register some objections to the city's plans for downtown Kalispell. I am
opposed to plans to make the entire downtown area, and especially Main Street, a pedestrian
mall or a version of a pedestrian mall that allows for some traffic. I have been to many
pedestrian malls in other areas and I have never seen one that essentially throttles a major
highway.
No provision is being made for traffic flow. It seems the planners want to restrict travel on
First Avenues East and West also. Every pedestrian mall I've seen provides for through traffic
on parallel roadways just one block away from the mall. Often there is free public
transportation and maybe a special downtown shuttle, helping to reduce cars downtown.
The new bypass and the possibility of a Willow Glen eastern bypass are not appropriate
solutions. They are of no use to those of us who actually live and work in the target area.
And be careful what you wish for, because anyone using either of those bypasses will definitely
be bypassing Downtown Kalispell.
Traffic on Third and Fourth Avenues East has already been throttled (I think "calmed" is the
city's preferred word). I don't see that any provision is being made for where the traffic is
supposed to go. I drive down Main Street frequently and I see all four lanes being used most
of the time. If you only provide one lane in each direction, you will have bumper to bumper
traffic. I've been to plenty of downtowns like that, traffic moving at a crawl, resulting in smelly
air pollution, frustrated drivers, and not a pleasant environment for walkers.
The city's draft downtown planning document finds that existing parallel parking spaces are
"difficult to access" Yet their proposed solution is to take away one of the two driving lanes
on Main Street, so that anyone parking would hold up all traffic, not just one lane out of two
as it is now.
A cornerstone of future building in the plan is more access via alleys. Many of our alleys are
completely blind outlets onto the street. Many buildings (Valley Bank is just one example) are
built right to the corner of the lot, making it impossible for cars and pedestrians to see each
other. This will only get worse with more usage of alleys and more inbuilding on lots that are
now open, such as existing surface parking lots.
There are suggestions in the plan for buildings to straddle streets and/or incorporate skywalks
similar to Glacier Bank and the new Senior Center. These types of structures close in our big
sky. They make the ground level darker. They keep people OFF the sidewalks when it seems
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the planners would like more people ON the sidewalks. The existing skywalks are enough for
our small city. Don't fill in all the empty space and then even the sky!
Bulbouts are bad for the environment. They inhibit right turns on red, so cars have to sit idling
waiting for the light to change, and then they might have to wait some more if cars ahead of
them are waiting to turn left. Of course all of this slows the movement of traffic and means
more cars have to sit through more traffic light cycles.
The city seems enamored of diagonal parking. I avoid it like the plague because I can't see
when pulling out. I can only back up slowly, hoping no one is coming fast, hoping they realize
I can't see them. If there must be diagonal parking, back -in parking is not quite as bad for
visibility when pulling out.
The city thinks diagonal parking's cost is merely "the paint on existing pavement." I don't
believe there's anywhere downtown where parking could be converted from parallel to diagonal
just by applying paint. Lanes of traffic would have to be eliminated or rerouted, in effect
throttling traffic. That is a high cost indeed.
It really pains me to write this letter, because I walk whenever I can and my kids and I used
to bicycle around Kalispell before traffic became life -threatening. I am very much in favor of
making our town more pedestrian and bike friendly. But almost shutting down a major
thoroughfare is not the way to do it. I think the city has to face the fact that Kalispell has
grown astronomically and we have a lot more traffic.
Two lanes each way should be restored around the courthouse. It never made any sense to
widen 93/Main Street everywhere else and restrict traffic in that one section. And as a person
who sometimes walks to and from the courthouse, I don't feel any safer now than before.
Better crosswalk painting and maybe one of those flashing lights that a pedestrian can push a
button to activate might help. There have always been too many crosswalks there, so nobody
pays any attention to any of them. Choose one or two and keep them painted.
I guess this is just barely out of the study area, but can't you do something about the lake
that develops at 11`h and Main every time it rains or melts? I've been avoiding that intersection
for DECADES even though most of that time I have lived within blocks of it.
My suggestion for downtown is to implement your pedestrian/traffic/parking ideas on First
Avenues East and West, if you must, and leave Main Street alone.
Sincerely,
Roseanne Bloom
cc:
Kalispell Planning Department
Flathead County Commissioners
Montana Department of Transportation.
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