HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter to MDT re Interstate Speeds BOZEMAN AREA TRANSPORTATION COORDINATING COMMITTEE (TCC)
November 15, 2017
Jeff Ebert
Butte District Administrator
Montana Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 3068
Butte, MT 59702-3068
RE: Bozeman Area of Interstate 90
Mr. Ebert,
At the regular meeting of the Bozeman Area Transportation Coordinating Committee on October
25, 2017, the membership passed a motion to reach out to MDT regarding the speed limit within
the Bozeman Urban Area.
As you are aware, Bozeman has experienced significant growth over the last decade and with
significant growth comes increased traffic. The committee would like to request that the
Montana Department of Transportation work with City of Bozeman and Gallatin County
officials in looking into options of reduced speeds along the interstate within the Bozeman area.
We were approached by the City of Bozeman Public Works Director and the City of Bozeman
Fire Chief about their concerns for emergency personnel responding to incidents along the
interstate. The Fire Chief has witnessed several close calls involving his personnel that he
believes could have been eliminated with reduced speeds. The City of Bozeman Fire Department
responded to 73 emergency incidents along the interstate in 2016 and foresees that number
growing.
We are also experiencing stacking at the exit ramps during peak hours resulting in cars idling on
the shoulder and within the right hand lane. At high speeds, the chance of an accident occurring
while cars are stopped on the interstate is significant. Slower speeds would allow for more time
to react.
The TCC appreciates you considering our request and moving forward to increase safety on the
roadways near Bozeman.
Sincerely, ,
Chris Scott, Chair
Bozeman Area Transportation Coordinating Committee
Cc: Carson Taylor, City of Bozeman Mayor
Correspondence to the TCC can be directed to:
City of Bozeman Department of Public Works,PO Box 1230,Bozeman,MT 59771 (406)582-2273
Steve White, Gallatin County Commission
Correspondence to the TCC can be directed to:
City of Bozeman Department of Public Works,PO Box 1230,Bozeman,MT 59771 (406)582-2273