‘Getting Across The Finish Line’ - Bozeman Breaks Ground On New Affordable Housing Complex

Bozeman, Mont. — A new affordable housing complex in Bozeman has moved into its construction phase as Hidden Creek officially broke ground on a former parcel of county-owned land at 805 Oak Park Drive.  

While the ceremony took place on Friday, May 1st, the development has been in the works for more than five years.  

It includes 182 apartments across five buildings for people earning 30, 60 and 70 percent of the area's median income.  

Seth O’Connell, a real estate developer with United Housing Partners L.L.C., spoke at the event about what the project means for the community.  

“We are honoring years of perseverance, partnership, public trust, private risk and the unwavering belief that Montana’s communities are stronger when everyone has a safe place to live,” said O’Connell.  

City leaders say the project aims at creating lasting affordable housing in Bozeman. Hidden Creek will be considered an affordable housing complex in perpetuity.  

Mayor Joey Morrison says the complex will help people who are working in the community but still do not have stable housing.  

“Folks who are perhaps right now bagging your groceries at the store, or pouring your beers at your favorite brewery, or serving your table at a restaurant,” said Morrison, “But are staying at a shelter at nighttime. This type of project helps to translate those folks into permanent housing.”  

Hidden Creek is part of the low-income tax credit program, which focuses on building and maintaining affordable housing options. The project was funded by Gallatin County, the City of Bozeman and United Housing Partners L.L.C., all of whom collectively contributed nearly $4.5 million.  

Gallatin County Commissioner Zach Brown says the driving force behind the project – providing affordable housing for those who need it - stood out as construction started.  

“At the end of the day, what this place represents is a community partnership, so much blood, sweat and tears and at the end of the day, qualified, dignified, housing for people who deserve to be able to live, work and thrive in this community,” said Brown. 

Leasing for Hidden Creek is expected to begin in July 2027.