U.S. Customs and Border Protection will continue to operate six ports of entry in Montana and one in Idaho at reduced hours in order to limit the further spread of coronavirus. On April 22, 2021, these measures were extended for an additional 30 days.

Early Stage Montana, a nonprofit working to accelerate the growth of Montana technology start-up companies has hired Jenni Graff as its first executive director. Adam Gilbertson of Laurel and Dan Rausch of Sioux Falls, SD have joined the Board of Directors.

The Montana Science Center of Bozeman is celebrating 20 years. The center was founded in 2001 by city residents, who wanted to experiment with STEM learning opportunities for all ages. The center offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, weekly programs as well as summer camps.  

The Gallatin Association of Realtors will use a $4,500 Placemaking Grant from the National Association of Realtors to help with the development of a new half-mile trail within the Highland Glen Nature Preserve, which is a Bozeman Health property. GAR will provide a $450 grant match, and Realtor members will participate in the construction of a bridge on the trail. The new half-mile trail will provide a connection to the existing 4.5 miles of trails within the Highland Glen Nature Preserve. A number of organizations are providing funding for the $47,000 project, including the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, Bozeman Health, the City of Bozeman, the Gianforte Family Foundation, Sanderson Stewart, AMB West Philanthropies, Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply and the One Valley Community Foundation. 

Gallatin County’s residential real estate saw strong sales, increased prices and high demand for homes in March. The average number of days homes spent on the market was half of what it was in March 2020. Median sale prices jumped 45.3%, and on average sellers received more than their asking price for single family homes. The number of new listings decreased 10.5% in March compared to last year, from 172 to 154. Pending sales were up 41.1%, going from 107 to 151. The number of closed sales decreased 14.3%, from 119 to 102. The average days on market decreased 52.9%, from 85 to 40. The median sales price increased 45.3% from $485,000 to $704,750. Sellers received 100.4% of their list price, up from 99.1% last March. The inventory of available homes dropped 69.8%, from 414 to 125, while the months’ supply of inventory fell 75%, from 3.2 to 0.8.  

After 38-years in business...