The Downtown Area Urban Renewal District Board convened on September 15, 2026, for a short session focused on updates rather than formal decisions. The board approved meeting minutes unanimously after a roll call vote.
Executive Director Ellie Staley welcomed two new representatives: Mike Waterman from the Bozeman School District and Ryan Finn from Gallatin County Commission. The meeting proceeded through several routine updates. Staffing changes included hiring Patty Silversmith as the new weekend maintenance person for the Business Improvement District through April. The board learned that an HRDC de-escalation training session was scheduled for Thursday with 15 participants, with five additional slots potentially available.
Staley reported that downtown flower baskets were removed earlier than usual due to heat, dry weather, and aphid infestation. The board discussed autumn maintenance priorities, including pedestrian lighting and infrastructure work heading into winter.
Development and Business Updates
Several new businesses have opened or are opening downtown, including Saffron (replacing Nova Cafe), Hokey Pokey Ice Cream at the Lark, Wax Tyrant Records, and Schaefer Outfitters inside Schnee's. Lumen Foundry, a furniture and home goods store, is expected to open October 1 in the Old Architect's Wife location, with plans to be operational for Ladies Night on November 17-18. Crazy Mountain Outdoor Company is opening in the Schooley Building, and Maison Frailes, an upscale Mexican restaurant, plans to open in the former Open Range space. Closures included Allegra, Blush, Open Range, and Vormi, which relocated to the MSU Innovation Campus.
Regarding the Fire Station 1 project, Commissioner Douglas Fischer disclosed that the city is in discussions to buy out the affordability requirement at that site, with details still being negotiated and eventual City Commission approval needed. Board member Marley McKenna noted the small lot size would require a very low land price to support an affordable housing project.
Ongoing Projects and Planning
The 5th and Main lighting project is progressing, with actual pedestrian lights expected to be installed by early October. The parking vision plan is on track to be completed by late October or early November, incorporating data from audience research and the parking working group. Staley said the plan would serve as an action plan for downtown parking priorities.
The Bozeman Federal Building remains a focus for potential acquisition and URD expansion, with a timeline of January-February expected for significant progress. David Fine of the city is leading discussions, and Douglas Fischer noted multiple offices are engaged, including those of U.S. Senator Steve Daines and Senator Jon Tester.
The board heard updates on the Bozeman Creek Vision Plan, awaiting a return visit from its consultant, and noted that downtown bathroom facilities at the parking garage may reopen in coming months after being closed for sewer issues.
Staley also mentioned she serves on the Passenger Rail Authority and sat on the MSU strategic plan committee, which is moving toward adoption in November with 15 projects allocated to university directors.