EBS STAFF
Correction: This story originally stated in its headline that the urban transportation district would be funded by taxpayers, which was inaccurate as UTD funding can instead combine various funding sources without levying mills.
In May 2023, the creation of a Gallatin Valley Urban Transportation District was approved by 79% of voters registered within the proposed district boundary. Starting July 1, the district will take over operations of the Streamline Bus service which serves the Bozeman and Belgrade communities.
Streamline has been operated for nearly two decades by the nonprofit Human Resource Development Council, which announced in a press release that Streamline riders can expect the same “friendly drivers, familiar schedules, and zero-fare service” despite the change in operations. HRDC believes the transition is a positive step toward ensuring public transit in greater Bozeman remains equitable, accessible and sustainable.
“No matter who manages the service, our priority remains the same: providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation that benefits us all,” Sunshine Ross, Streamline Bus transportation director, stated in the release. For the forseeable future, the service will continue to be funded by the same sources—a combination of federal support, local government contributions, MSU student fees and partner support, according to HRDC.
Big Sky may see enhancements from the partnership between Skyline buses and Streamline as the new district works on plans to better connect the valley.
HRDC will host a community celebration at Shine Beer Sanctuary in Bozeman, with food and beverages provided, on Monday, June 30 from 5 to 7 p.m.
“Join us as we celebrate this exciting moment and thank the partners, voters, and riders who made it possible,” the release stated.
