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Opinion: Balancing Housing Affordability and Parking Needs in Montana

By Brady Thomas Rice

A bill advancing in the Montana Legislature, House Bill 492, has sparked debate over housing affordability and urban planning. Sponsored by Rep. Katie Zolnikov, the bill aims to limit city-mandated parking requirements for new residential developments. Supporters argue this will lower construction costs, while opponents worry about accessibility and infrastructure challenges.

The Case for Reducing Parking Mandates

Proponents, including the Montana Building Industry Association and Montana Environmental Information Center, argue that excessive parking requirements drive up housing costs. The Governor’s housing task force estimates that each surface parking stall adds $5,000 to development expenses. Reducing mandates could free up land for housing and improve affordability.

Concerns Over Accessibility and Infrastructure

Opponents, including the Montana League of Cities and Towns and disability advocates, warn that eliminating parking minimums could make housing less accessible. Montana’s cities also lack extensive public transit, making parking availability crucial. In Bozeman, officials fear the bill could weaken an existing program that incentivizes affordable housing through relaxed parking requirements.

Finding a Balanced Approach

HB 492 highlights the challenge of balancing affordability with urban infrastructure needs. A compromise could involve maintaining accessible parking while granting developers flexibility. Cities might also explore shared parking models or incentives for transit-friendly developments.

Montana must adapt its housing policies to support growth while ensuring accessibility. Adjusting parking requirements could enhance affordability, but careful planning is needed to address concerns. Stakeholders should collaborate to craft a practical, forward-thinking solution for Montana’s future housing landscape.

About Brady Thomas Rice

Brady Thomas Rice is the President and Founder of The BTR Group, Inc., a firm specializing in international executive management services focused on capitalizing, developing, restructuring, and operating commercial real estate assets in complex markets. With two decades of experience, Mr. Rice is a seasoned expert in the real estate industry. He is currently leading and advising on projects in multiple jurisdictions across the US Mountain West including Montana, Utah, and Colorado along with international destination markets including Baja California Sur, Mexico and Canada.