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Helena, Montana, Embraces Proposed Smart Growth Project

Taking advantage of a new interchange that is being built on Interstate 15, the 153-lot Nob Hill community will be near existing city water and sewer lines and will put residents within a quick commute of downtown.

On the southeast side of town, the land slated for development is currently the site of a Wild West playground for four-wheelers and snowmobiles.

The Independent Record on Aug. 22 noted that Plan Helena, a local smart-growth advocacy group, appeared before the commission to speak on behalf of the proposed development. Mark Kelly, representing the group, said that the project will protect “visually sensitive” areas by leaving the hilltop untouched, and its back alleys for parking will make streets safer for pedestrians.

Nob Hill will provide a mix of residential and retail uses. Construction on the interchange is expected to begin next summer.

“Helena is a growing community,” says the Helena daily. “That growth obviously will require new development, and not just close to town. Demand will remain for more outlying housing. But it’s good to see developments like Nob Hill putting smart growth principles into practice.”

For more information on smart growth, e-mail Blake Smith at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8583.

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