Board OKs small subdivision

A new 10-house subdivision on Colorado Avenue got a thumbs up from the Whitefish Planning Board last week.

The board unanimously recommended approval for the 14-lot subdivision, which features roughly 17,500 square feet in parkland dedication and lot sizes of up to 1.1 acres.

Tom DeAngelo made the request for the preliminary plat with technical assistance by Christine Bleyhl.

Speaking to the board on Thursday, Bleyhl noted how big of a priority preserving open space in the area is.

“We like the natural prairie look and so that open space is really just to maintain some open prairie space there rather than have it all be either built infrastructure or groomed landscaping,” she said.

“It’s my intention to keep this as natural looking [as possible] and not sort of groomed and manicured as some other subdivisions tend to look.”

The area is zoned WR-2 two-family residential and would utilize city utility services.

Lot sizes vary between 0.11 acres and 1.1 acres and will have frontage and driveways along Colorado Avenue or Denver Street.

Bleyhl also said she plans on preserving the existing trees along Denver Street.

City Councilor and Planning Board member Richard Hildner said he’s been a fan of the project and area and is excited to see the natural look of the area preserved.

“I saw it when it came before the park board — I liked it then, I like it now,” he said. “I run out there a lot, that is a beautiful area for open space and I appreciate your willingness to keep the neighbors in mind with preserving their view sheds as well.”

The project will go before City Council on Feb. 5 for a public hearing and final decision.