If I Was King Of Bozeman, Here’s My Top 5 Changes I’d Start With.
I know, I know, you're thinking here comes another one of those "here's what's wrong with Bozeman articles". That is not what this is or intended to be. In fact, this is an article on how to actually make Bozeman better!
I'm all about positivity and possibility!
Let's be honest, Bozeman has a whole lot of charm. The downtown is lovely, the mountains are plentiful, we have some of the best dog parks in the country, there are countless trails and easy access to skiing. We haven't even talked about the world-class fishing or the close proximity to Yellowstone. Plus, we have a top-of-the-line airport. I mean, there is a whole lot to love about Bozeman.
However...
If we're having an honest conversation here, there are some things that could be better as well. So, if I was King for a day, these are the Top 5 Changes I would make to Bozeman:
First, Affordable Housing. The housing market here is ridiculous, and we all know it. A normal everyday Montanan can't afford to buy a house in Bozeman. Also, most normal everyday Montanans can't afford the rent here in Bozeman. Hence, why we're seeing fewer Montanans and more folks from other places moving here. (I know what you're thinking, "Derek, you're not from here!" That's true, but like most of you, I can't afford a house here either.)
Second, an amusement/water park. Some of my best memories as a kid were going to the amusement park. Roller coasters and all of the other really cool rides are so much fun for family and friends, plus, a few water slides would be epic! We already have a ton of tourists that come every summer, this is just another opportunity for them to spend their money right here.
Third, an indoor dog park. I mentioned above that we have incredible dog parks here in Bozeman and that is a fact, but what about an indoor dog park? A place where the dogs can go and play for hours in a climate-controlled facility and people pay a monthly membership. Kind of like a gym. Throw in some obstacle courses a frisbee/fetch area and I think you have a winning idea, my friends.
Fourth, more concerts at Bobcat Stadium. What a great idea right? I mean, who wouldn't love to see some of the biggest names in music perform right here in Bozeman under the big sky? It seems I'm not the only one who thinks this is a great idea, because whenever Bobcat Stadium hosts a big name, they sell out. Plus, the revenue from the concerts could go to help expand the stadium.
Finally, another donut shop. When you're as good as Granny's here in Bozeman, that means you sell out quickly. Everyone knows they have the very best donuts in town, but once they're gone, they're gone and at that point, I would settle for a middle-of-the-road donut. So the fifth and final thing I would do would be to add another donut shop (preferably closer to my house) Heck, I'm not even opposed to one of those donut shop chains coming to town.
What would you do to make Bozeman better? What changes would you like to see happen? As always, I love your feedback, so reach out and let me know how you think Bozeman can become better.