Public input to be collected through open meetings, online survey
EBS STAFF
The Human Resource Development Council, operator of the Streamline Bus and Galavan paratransit services in Bozeman, is looking for community input as it updates the transit development plan that will guide the near future for Bozeman’s zero-fare public transportation service.
HRDC last updated Streamline’s TDP in 2020, and since then, “much has changed, both in our community and how people travel,” according to an HRDC press release. An updated plan will reflect changes planned in the next three to five years, and “ensure our transit services meet the growing and evolving needs of the Gallatin Valley.”
The organization will collect feedback during three public meetings in Bozeman this week: Sept. 24 at 10 a.m. at Montana State University’s Strand Union Building; Sept. 25 at 5 p.m. at Bridger Brewing; and Sept. 26 at Bozeman Public Library.
For those unable to attend the in-person meetings, HRDC is offering an online survey. Those who complete the survey will be entered to win tickets to 2024 Montana State football games, including Cat-Griz on Nov. 23.
Streamline’s changes since 2020
Since HRDC’s 2020 update to Streamline’s TDP, “Redesign Streamline 2020,” the bus service has seen a few changes: Existing routes were made linear and bidirectional, rather than circular one-way loops; New bus stop and route indicator signs were developed; HRDC worked to improve public perception and understanding of the service; and 79% of voters passed the creation of the Gallatin Valley Urban Transportation District in 2023.
“We introduced the Blueline, Goldline, Purpleline, Brownline, and Pinkline along with more convenient weekend service. In fact, our Redesign Streamline 2020 TDP was voted #1 Best Use of Taxpayer Dollars in the Bozeman’s Choice Reader Poll,” according to Streamline’s website.
Those strategies earned recognition from the Federal Transit Administration for connecting rural communities, and as a Green Fleet by Yellowstone-Teton Clean Cities.
As the bus service continues to see increased ridership, the 2025 update will look to continue the action taken in the past four years.
