Survey out for strategic non-vehicle travel plan; survey map allows respondents to draw suggested trails, crosswalks
EBS STAFF
With noisy and fast vehicle traffic increasing steadily through a community full of walkable and bikeable locations, the Big Sky Transportation District has hired a specialist to ensure the future of Big Sky prioritizes spaces for safe and enjoyable non-vehicle travel.
The district hired Alta Planning and Design, a “national leader” in the space and the firm responsible for the 2019 Big Sky Master Trails Plan, to compile the Big Sky Active Transportation Plan. The objective is to guide future investments in trails, sidewalks, crossings and other non-motorized connections between neighborhoods, trailheads, activity centers and public transit.
A five-minute online survey seeks input from locals and visitors, open until April 26. On the survey’s “comment map,” users can draw suggested trails, crosswalks or connections, as well as comment on peer suggestions.
“As Big Sky grows, traffic congestion, safety concerns and gaps in the walking and biking network have become more visible for residents, workers, and visitors,” a BSTD press release stated. “The Active Transportation Plan is intended to improve access to transit, reduce reliance on personal vehicles, and support a year-round, livable mountain community where people of all ages and abilities can get around without needing to drive for every trip.”
Additional funding and guidance comes from Resort Tax, the Big Sky Community Organization, and Big Sky Parks, Recreation and Trails District. BTSD will integrate plans with broader transportation and transit planning efforts.
“Biking and walking make mountain towns hum, and this active transportation plan is an important step to keeping this town humming in the future,” BSTD board member Bayard Dominick stated in the release.
Officials expect the plan will be completed this summer.
