Investigating Neighborhood Character in the Northeast Neighborhood of Bozeman, MT

Abstract

This study examines the changes occurring in the built environment and in the social character of the Northeast neighborhood of Bozeman. This project was initiated at the request of the Northeast Neighborhood Association (NENA) whose members are concerned that growth is negatively impacting the unique character, affordability, and informal social interactions of their neighborhood. Working with the city of Bozeman and NENA, this project aims to document the existing character of the neighborhood and social, economic, and architectural changes as perceived by residents who participated in this research. Between Spring 2020 and Summer 2022, faculty and students from three MSU departments conducted and analyzed a physical inventory of the built environment, a survey, the PhotoVoicesNE report, and interviews of residents. The data collected here may be used by the city of Bozeman and NENA to develop neighborhood planning tools.