New High School Opens in Bozeman, Fall 2020
In May 2017, the Bozeman Schools Board unanimously approved a comprehensive 143-page preliminary design for a new high school. This facility, named Bozeman Gallatin High School, is set to accommodate 1,500 students in a 304,000 square foot building located at 4455 Annie Street. With a budget of $93 million and incorporating green building features, the school is slated to open in Fall 2020.
Bozeman High School’s Ranking in 2016
In 2016, Bozeman High School was recognized by US News & World Report as the second-best high school in Montana and ranked 623rd among over 21,000 high schools across the United States. The school’s Advanced Placement participation rate stood at 59%, reflecting its commitment to preparing students for college through performance-based evaluations.
Killer Parasite Discovered in Local Rivers, Summer 2016
In the summer of 2016, tissue samples from whitefish in the Yellowstone and Jefferson Rivers revealed the presence of Tetracalsula bryosalmonae, a parasite linked to proliferative kidney disease. The Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (FWP) crews collected samples from multiple rivers, including the Madison, Gallatin, East Gallatin, Missouri, Smith, and Big Horn. Fish are particularly vulnerable to this parasite during warm summer months when river conditions fluctuate. Fortunately, by Spring 2017, the parasite had disappeared from the rivers.
Bozeman: A Top College Town, 2015
In 2015, Bozeman was recognized as a premier college town, ranked fourth best in the nation for college living and ninth in a broader list of best and worst college cities. The town is home to Montana State University (MSU) and is located just 90 miles from Yellowstone National Park. Bozeman boasts access to some of North America’s best fly-fishing streams and the largest ski area, Big Sky Resort, contributing to a vibrant economy with an unemployment rate below 3%.
Establishment of Bozeman Creek Committee, 2012
In 2012, the Bozeman Creek Committee was formed to address the future of the urban waterway flowing through downtown Bozeman. The committee recognized that while the upper reaches of Bozeman Creek in the Gallatin Mountains are in good condition, issues arise as the creek approaches residential areas on the valley floor.
Natural Gas Explosion in Bozeman, March 5, 2009
On March 5, 2009, a devastating natural gas explosion rocked downtown Bozeman, leading to significant destruction and loss. Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer remarked on the severity of the event, stating, “When we say gone, we mean gone.” The explosion resulted in the destruction of multiple businesses, leaving the area resembling a disaster zone.
In the aftermath, Bozeman Fire Chief Jason Shrauger identified the cause as a two-inch diameter gas service line connected to the NorthWestern Energy main gas line. Reports indicated that several witnesses had detected a gas odor hours before the explosion but did not report it.
The explosion claimed the life of Tara Reistad Bowman, a beloved community member, and caused significant disruption to local businesses and the economy. The Small Business Administration quickly mobilized to assist affected businesses with loans and support.
As recovery efforts began, the city faced substantial financial burdens from the incident, with costs expected to reach at least $276,000 for cleanup and emergency response efforts. By May 30, 2009, cleanup efforts were underway, with hopes of transitioning from a destruction site to one of renewal.
On July 10, 2009, the site was cleared, marking the beginning of reconstruction efforts in downtown Bozeman, a testament to the community’s resilience and support.
