HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-01-09.GLVT TOP Application West Side Pathways and Trails Connection ProjectCity of Bozeman West Side Pathways
and Trails Connection Project
Creating a New Community Trail Network
Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Enhancements
Application for City of Bozeman Trails, Open Space and Parks Bond Funding
Date January 9, 2020
Submitted By:
212 South Wallace Ave
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 587-8404
City of Bozeman West Side Pathways and Trails
Connection Project
Contents
Application Narrative ............................................................................................ 1
Summary of Project Goals ................................................................................... 16
Budget .................................................................................................................. 17
Wayfinding Signage Concepts ............................................................................ 18
Maps
Map A – Overview Map of Proposed East-West Route
Map B - Proposed Routes
Map C - Parks, Open Space, and Natural Areas Map
Map D – Schools Map
Map E - Wayfinding Needs Map
Map F - Bozeman Trail Networks Concept Map
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 1
Section 1
Description of the project including location, budget, the amount requested and amount contributed from other sources.
The Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) and the City of Bozeman (City) share a vision to
create a safe, connected bicycle and pedestrian trail route that stretches from the
westernmost City limits, through neighborhoods, parks, schools and commercial
districts, into the Downtown core of Bozeman. GVLT is seeking $150,000 from the
Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOP) bond to complete an “East-West Connector Trail”
network that enhances existing trails and pathways, establishing a safe, accessible
recreation and commuter trail stretching over five miles from the western edge of
Bozeman’s city limits to the proposed Front Street Pathway Connector.
In 2012, the citizens of Bozeman voted overwhelmingly to invest $15 million into their
parks and trails system. The vision was clear: create new parks and trails that connect
and enhance our community. The result has been the addition of nearly 150 acres of
parkland and 10 miles of new trails and pathways within the City of Bozeman.
Each project met a unique community desire: preserving open space, enhancing water
quality, creating more space for organized sports, giving children (and dogs) space to
run free and explore their environment. But one thread runs through each of these
projects, providing both recreation and connection around, through, and beyond the
trees, turf and playgrounds. That thread is trails. Each and every project funded by
the TOP Bond either features trails or effectively incorporates trails into the design.
The East-West Connector Trail would be just such a project, but is unique in that it
seeks to connect many of the new TOP funded parks and trails, while also
comprehensively connecting neighborhoods, schools and commercial centers to the
Main Street to the Mountains trail system. Portions of the trail network will also be part
of the planned nation-wide Great American Rail Trail.
This project seeks to accomplish a component of the City’s long-desired objective of
effective pedestrian and bicycle path and trail networks in the western portions of the
City. See the Overview Map of Proposed East-West Route for the proposed primary
routes of this project. GVLT has been a valued partner in establishing, expanding, and
maintaining trails throughout the City of Bozeman and we are proud to again be
working cooperatively with the City on this project.
Rapid increase of the size of the City of Bozeman and population growth create an
urgent need for this Connection Project. This project would be considered the first
phase of expanding the Main Street to the Mountains trail network westerly, with
opportunities to further connect to the north, northwest, south, and southwest in future
phases. See the Bozeman Trail Networks Concept Map F for a depiction of those trail
networks. The project will also ensure that proper connectivity and signage are in place
to connect to the existing trail systems to the east.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 2
Utilizing a portion of the remaining Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOP) funding is very
fitting and builds on the excellent collaborative work accomplished by the TOP projects
at the Bozeman Sports Park, Path to the M and Drinking Horse, Bozeman Pond, and
Front Street Pathway (planned construction 2020).
This proposed project capitalizes on a great deal of investment and progress already
made by the City, the Bozeman School District and private developers. The project
seeks to connect existing pathways and trails into a continuous network as envisioned
by the City’s 2007 Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan (PROST).
Specific examples of this completed work include:
• The City of Bozeman’s Complete Streets projects, Capital Improvement Plan
(CIP) projects, various safe routes to school programs, Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA), Arterial Street Program, etc.
• Completed Transportation Alternatives (TA) projects.
• Effective implementation of Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails (PROST)
Plan requirements since 2007 across multiple phases of subdivision development
by private developers.
• Existing subdivision requirements for park and trail designation and
construction as required by PROST and recommendations made by the
Subdivision Review Committee of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board.
• Completed and approved Trails, Open Space and Parks Bond (TOP) projects.
• Bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements advanced through Bozeman’s
Pedestrian and Transportation Safety Committee and Bicycle Advisory Board.
• Upcoming completion of the new Bozeman School District Gallatin High School
and the needs of students, parents and teachers.
• Completion of excellent work by developers with park and trail facilities, with the
need to connect them to destinations outside of their specific development.
• Commitment and assistance from local partner groups such as Gallatin Valley
Land Trust, Bozeman Sports Park Foundation, Trust for Public Lands, Run Dog
Run, etc.
• Established Streamline transit routes and future routes.
Funding and match:
GVLT is requesting up to $150,000 of funding from the Trails, Open Space and Parks
(TOP) bond for this project. Recognizing the importance of completing previously
Commission-approved projects and the Committee’s process, GVLT is prepared to
adjust the amount requested if necessary in order to allow for completion of those
approved projects.
To leverage the TOP request GVLT is working with the City of Bozeman to identify
projects within its existing plans. If funding is awarded through the TOP program, City
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 3
staff will determine specific funding sources at an approximate 1:1 match, over several
funding cycles. To accomplish this, the City’s Transportation Engineer and Parks &
Recreation Planner and Development Manager have convened a series of meetings with
City Community Development, City Engineering, City Streets Department, City Parks &
Recreation, Bozeman School District and GVLT. Two meetings have been held to date.
GVLT will apply for Cash-in-Lieu of Parkland (CILP) funding in areas where it is
applicable to enhance linear connections to parks and recreation facilities. GVLT will
work with City staff and the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board who will forward their
recommendations to the City Commission for final approval if the TOP funding is
awarded.
GVLT will pursue a $45,000 grant from the new State Trails and Recreational Facilities
Account and Grant Program established during the 2019 legislature. The application
period for this new grant opportunity is expected to be in the Fall of 2020 with awards
made for the 2021 construction season.
GVLT has received a commitment from Trident Cement Plant to donate gravel trail
surfacing materials for trail building and rehabilitation.
GVLT will lead wayfinding sign and map design, content and installation of amenities in
conjunction with contractors.
GVLT will coordinate community and HOA
volunteer projects to re-establish trails or build
necessary connections (photo of National Trails
Day 2018 at Valley West to right).
Bozeman School District is actively working with
City staff on safer routes to the new high school and
connections with the nearby Sports Park complex.
As this project moves forward, the School District will consider assisting with funding
projects to improve non-vehicle access for students, parents, and special event
attendees. A specific amount has not been identified at this time. A representative of
the school district and a Trustee are participating in the City’s working committee for
this project.
The City, GVLT and Western Transportation Institute (WTI) are involved in a student
learning project with Montana State University’s Architecture program to collect trail
user data, conduct trail user surveys, design trail networks, and design wayfinding
signage. This is part of the City’s Community-engaged and Transformational
Scholarship Initiative (CATS). MSU has been awarded a grant to cover the costs of a
research assistant to coordinate the field work and data collection.
Two MSU classes have been involved to date, with a third class to work on the project in
Spring 2020. Eighty-five hours of survey have been conducted, on 15 area trails.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 4
Section 2.
Description of how the project creates or enhances the following community aspects:
a. Open Space/Natural Areas – Along the primary corridor, this project will
connect many areas of Public Open Space and Natural Areas (see Parks, Open Space,
and Natural Areas Map C). City planners directed developers to establish open space
areas within their subdivisions to protect sensitive areas
and provide public access, commonly with trails established
to guide users on a safer route removed from streets and
highways. Currently these trail segments are not identified
by signage and some have fallen into disrepair (see photo
left). This project seeks to properly sign existing trails into
new, logical networks, providing off-street alternatives for
safety and opportunities for outdoor recreation, enhancing
appreciation for Bozeman’s natural resources. Trail maps
will be installed at key locations to show users their current location and nearby open
space destinations.
The project will also deliver funding necessary to re-establish existing City trails and
bring them back to City standards.
b. Parks – Within the primary project corridor, ten (10) Parks will be connected by this
project (see Parks, Open Space, and Natural Areas Map C). This project will incentivize
residents and visitors to travel from park to park without the use of a vehicle, helping to
alleviate congestion at popular parks and sporting
events. In the broader scope, the network will connect
the City’s TOP-funded Bozeman Sports Park with Story
Mill Community Park (photo left) and the Path to the M
and Drinking Horse.
The proposed path and trail network will also connect
to the Gallatin County Regional Park and two existing off-leash dog parks. The corridor
provides access to two bicycle parks, one at the Regional Park and one at Westlake City
Park. This project will serve to encourage users to cycle to the parks rather than use
vehicles.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 5
c. Trails – The City of Bozeman is fortunate to have an extensive number of trails
throughout the City, but rapid growth over the past decade has created challenges for
the Parks & Recreation Department to keep up with connecting the trails and pathways
into networks. As the City’s trusted trails partner, Gallatin Valley Land Trust is working
with the City to transform the Main Street to the Mountains trail system by connecting
these paths into a comprehensive system of routes and loop trails ideal for both
recreation and commuting (see Trail Networks Map F). As mentioned previously, this
project is envisioned to be the first step in expanding the trail networks throughout the
Bozeman area.
Typical West Side Trail near Gallatin High School Needing Wayfinding Signage
Portions of this trail network will become part of the planned Great American Rail Trail,
the first nation-wide trail to traverse the Bozeman area.
d. Water quality/Sustainability/Climate Action Plan – Opportunities exist to
improve bridges and water crossings within the project corridor to protect water
resources. City Parks & Recreation staff will identify specific bridge projects within Park
areas eligible for TOP funding. Project components will include erosion control
improvements as identified.
This project will also provide funding to establish educational signage at key areas to
encourage greater stewardship of water resources. With the large number of schools
along the corridor this project creates opportunities for outdoor classrooms. Potential
partners include the Bozeman School District, Montana State University, Greater
Gallatin Watershed Council, Montana Outdoor Science School and others.
GVLT will conduct several of its popular Discovery Walks within these areas each year,
focusing on such topics as water quality and sustainability.
As stated by the City of Bozeman’s Sustainability Office on their official webpage, “New
trails and parks have the potential to reduce Bozeman’s carbon footprint, as both
carbon-sinks and to the extent they reduce driving.” Great work has been
accomplished in creating new trails and parks, but enhancing connectivity is vital to
effecting greater use of the trails and parks and taking full advantage of their benefits.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 6
Consistent with Item TLU-6 of the Bozeman Municipal Climate Action Plan, an
opportunity exists to implement incentive programs along the corridor to encourage
employees and students to use alternative modes to get to and from work, school and
parks.
e. Multi-Use Recreational Fields –
While the proposed project does not include
establishing new multi-use recreational
fields, it seeks to more safely connect
important recreational facilities at the City’s
Sports Park (photo right) and Bronken
Sports Complex. Trail connectivity would
also be a priority to access Oak Springs Park, which is currently in the master planning
process. Trails in the western portion of the city could reduce congestion and parking
capacity issues during sporting events and tournaments. A specially designated trail
network could be identified to connect the Sports Park and Bronken Park to allow
participants and spectators to walk between these venues during large, regional
tournaments spread out over multiple locations.
f. (Additional Item) Neighborhoods, Schools, and Inclusivity – An effective
trail network encourages social interaction between residents of different
neighborhoods in a casual setting, helping to improve overall community
connectedness. This project will connect major subdivisions, such as Valley West,
Flanders Mill, Flanders Creek, Baxter Meadows, Lakes at Valley West, Valley Unit,
Laurel Glen, Traditions, Oak Springs, and soon Norton Ranch, with neighborhoods in
Midtown, Downtown and the east. With the mix of housing densities, ownership/rental
opportunities, subsidy opportunities present throughout the western neighborhoods,
this project is highly inclusive of the spectrum of residents. An effective trail network
also encourages social interaction between residents of different neighborhoods in a
casual setting, helping to improve overall community connectedness.
High-fives on the trail
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 7
The City’s former Neighborhoods Coordinator agreed to help facilitate neighborhood
engagement for this project. GVLT will participate in the West Side Neighborhoods
Town Hall scheduled for spring of 2020, and make a presentation on this project to the
Inter Neighborhood Council in early 2020. GVLT will coordinate with the new
Neighborhoods Coordinator, once appointed, to carry out this public engagement.
A primary focus of this project has been safer routes to school, which has influenced
priority connections. As shown on the Schools Map D in this application, Bozeman
School District schools in close proximity to the primary corridor of the initial phase of
the project include:
• Gallatin High School (opening Fall 2020)
• Meadowlark Elementary School
• Chief Joseph Middle School
• Hyalite Elementary School
• Emily Dickinson Elementary School
The proposed West Side Trail Loop creates convenient and safe connection to Montana
State University via existing shared use paths along Huffine Lane and College Street.
Future phases of this project will connect to additional schools with the long term
objective to have safer connections to all Bozeman School District Schools.
g. (Additional Item) Healthy Communities – Regular physical activity has been
well documented nationally and is referenced in many City and County planning efforts.
This project helps identify trails in close proximity to residents. Adding wayfinding
improves safety and comfort level of users when they know where the trails lead to and
what destinations can be reached.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 8
Section 3
Description of the project area:
As specified in Goal 6.3 of Bozeman’s Transportation Master Plan, it is important to
“engage stakeholders and the public in the decision-making stage of the transportation planning process”. Public engagement is well underway for this proposed TOP project,
as it casts a wide net, running through some of the dense urban neighborhoods of
Bozeman. This project will benefit a diverse range of community members living along
the proposed route.
Gallatin Valley Land Trust has performed extensive field work identifying feasible path
and trail corridors in an east-west orientation, connecting with the existing West Side
Trail and has proposed an initial trail network for further consideration by the
community. Meetings have been held with Parks & Recreation, City Engineering, City
Streets and Bozeman School District to review the concept and fine tune the routes
according to identified needs and available City funding.
Additionally, the City Transportation Engineer will facilitate discussions with the
Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory Board (BABAB) and Pedestrian Transportation Safety
Committee (PTS) to gather their input as designated citizen advisory boards.
Introductory presentations have been made to both boards. As this project moves
forward, PTS and BABAB will be asked to provide advice on safety improvements within
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 9
their scope. Western Transportation Institute will also be involved with transportation-
related locations and routes within their areas of expertise and advisory areas.
As mentioned previously, the City of Bozeman, GVLT, and Western Transportation
Institute are currently involved with Montana State University’s School of Architecture
to collect trail usage data, conduct usage surveys, develop wayfinding needs, and
conduct a trails planning charrette under the CATS program. A grant has been awarded
to fund a research assistant to coordinate the student project over the Fall 2019 and
Spring 2020 semesters. The information obtained during this study will be
incorporated into final designs of the trail networks and will influence wayfinding
locations.
All of this information will be gathered and coordinated closely with City departments to
comply with planning mechanisms, community plans, funding, and a final plan
developed by the City. Careful analysis of off-street areas will be needed to assess trail
maintenance requirements and roles (i.e. HOA, City).
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 10
Section 4
Briefly explain how the project creates long term value for residents of Bozeman.
As specifically stated in the City of Bozeman’s Strategic Plan, recreational opportunities
and connectivity are important aspects of a Well Planned City as described in the Plan
for the long term vitality of the community and its residents. This project would
accomplish many of the objectives identified in various City of Bozeman plans. Specific
references include:
Bozeman Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open Space (PROST) Plan (2007):
Recommendation 10.7.3 – Continue to expand the trail system in the City in a
logical, convenient and safe manner as opportunities arise. The proposed project
continues to expand the existing trail system logically, conveniently and safely.
An opportunity now exists to develop excellent new trail networks and “catch up”
with rapid development. Much of the expansion within this project simply
involves connecting existing trail sections required by PROST into longer, logical
networks. The project will also create connections to recently annexed areas of
the City, and in the adjoining County. It is important to note that the PROST
plan specifically recommends GVLT as the “critical partner” in expanding the
trail system; we take great pride in assisting the City in this regard.
Recommendation 10.8.1 – Provide a high level of accessibility and safe routes of
travel to and from City parks, and between other community facilities, public
library, schools, and downtown. In addition to previously stated connections
with parks and schools, the Bozeman Public Library will be opening a public
facility at the new Gallatin High School, to which this project can help provide
bicycle and pedestrian access.
This proposed project will improve non-vehicle connections to community and
commercial zones along 19th Ave, Midtown, Gallatin County Fairgrounds, the
Cannery District, and the newly expanding commercial areas to the west and
southwest. The project will serve as an economic boost to these areas and the
Midtown Urban Renewal District has indicated strong support for wayfinding
within its boundaries.
Recommendation 10.8.4 – Include standardized signage on City trails to increase
visibility, usability and safety. While GVLT and the City of Bozeman have
established a well-recognized and standardized trail signage program, it has not
kept up as the City expanded. The proposed project will extend signage into
newly served areas with consistent appearance and content. Signage will be
expanded to include reference to new trail networks, utilize color-coding to assist
trail users, incorporate “pedestrian-level” wayfinding signs and maps at
intermediate locations where the large wooden totems might not be appropriate.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 11
GVLT staffs are prepared to lead this design effort with a contracted design
consultant. Design, printing and installation of these signs will be funded
through both the TOP and State Trails and Recreational Facilities Account and
Grant Program grants.
Bozeman Community Plan 2019 Draft:
Goal DCD-1: Ensure multimodal connectivity within the City.
DCD-1.1 Expand multimodal accessibility between districts and throughout the
City as a means of promoting personal and environmental health, as well as
reducing automobile dependency.
DCD-1.2 Identify missing links in the multimodal system, prioritize those most
beneficial to complete, and pursue funding for completion of those links.
DCD-1.3 Identify major existing and future destinations for biking and walking to
aid in prioritization of route planning and completion. DCD-1.4 Support
implementation of the Bozeman Trans
Bozeman Strategic Plan (2018):
3.4 Active Recreation – “Facilitate and promote recreational opportunities and
active health programs and facilities. Active health in communities has been
shown to be enhanced by a good path and trail network. By connecting short
sections into longer trails the opportunity for significant recreation is enhanced.
4.5 Housing and Transportation Choices – “Vigorously encourage, through a
wide variety of actions, the development of sustainable and lasting housing
options for underserved individuals and families and improve mobility options
that accommodate all travel modes.” This project will improve travel by bicycle,
wheelchair, and foot. The project will also provide access to Streamline public
transit stops to further improve variety of travel modes.
4.5 a) Enhance non-motorized transportation – Along with safety, this is the
primary objective of this project, and aligns with this objective of the Strategic
Plan.
6.5 Parks, Trails & Open Space – “Support the maintenance and expansion of an
interconnected system of parks, trails and open spaces.” This project is vital to
improving the City’s accomplishments in this aspect.
Bozeman Transportation Master Plan (2017):
GOAL 6: Protect and Enhance Environmental Sustainability, Provide
Opportunities for Active Lifestyles, and Conserve Natural and Cultural
Resources.
6.1. Promote transportation projects, plans and/or programs that encourage
reducing fuel consumption, reducing vehicle miles of travel, and thereby
minimizing air pollution.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 12
6.2. Coordinate transportation planning activities with appropriate federal, state,
and local agencies responsible for land use management, natural resources,
environmental protection, conservation, and historic preservation.
6.3. Engage stakeholders and the public in the decision-making stage of the
transportation planning process.
6.4. Coordinate transportation planning activities with local and regional land
use planning activities, including the City’s Community Plan and Gallatin
County’s Growth Policy (and subsequent updates to both).
Additionally, this project builds on the success described in Section 2.3.2.of the Plan:
Active Transportation Network and aligns with the elements of such a network.
Bozeman Community Plan (2009):
“Transportation systems should support the desired land use pattern and be
interconnected multi-modal networks (e.g. bicycles, pedestrian, transit, automobiles or
other vehicles) rather than focusing solely on automobiles.”
“The City’s intent in planning for parks, recreation, open space and trails includes the
following elements:
• Provide recreational opportunities that are accessible and affordable to all
members of the community.
• Use public places to create a sense of community and foster social interaction.
Strengthen relationships through shared recreation and play.
• Promote an active and healthy citizenry.”
Goal R-1: Provide for accessible, desirable, and adequately maintained public parks,
open spaces, trail systems, and recreational facilities for residents of the community.
Objective T-2.1: For the purposes of transportation and land use planning and
development, non-motorized travel options and networks shall be of equal importance
and consideration as motorized travel options. This balance shall ensure that a variety of
travel opportunities are available which do not require the use of automobiles for local
trips.
Gallatin County Trails Report and Plan (2001):
3.12 Mobility and Circulation, Goal 1
Provide a Safe and Efficient Transportation System.
Promote multi-modal transportation opportunities. Encourage development to be
consistent with countywide trails plan.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 13
Section 5
List all groups/organizations involved or contributing to this project and what their short and long term commitments would be.
Gallatin Valley Land Trust has well established experience and excellent success in
bringing a wide range of groups together to assist with projects such as this. We will
continue to be a vital partner to the Bozeman Recreation & Parks Department and
continue this effective relationship as this project moves forward.
• Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory Board – Input to City Transportation on bicycle &
pedestrian improvements for project area on ongoing basis.
• Bozeman Area Pedestrian and Traffic Safety Committee - Input to City Transportation on
bicycle & pedestrian improvements for project area on ongoing basis.
• Bozeman Northeast Urban Renewal Board – Financial support for completing connectivity
of Front Street Connector project to Story Mill Spur and Depot Park trails.
• Bozeman Recreation and Parks Advisory Board – Input to Parks & Recreation Department
staff, prioritization of project components, input on subdivision matters.
• Bozeman School District – Financial assistance for eligible project components on their property and connecting to the Bozeman Sports Park. Possible assistance with wayfinding.
• Bozeman Youth Cycling – Volunteer assistance, trail etiquette outreach.
• Bridger Ski Foundation – Trail advocacy, volunteer assistance during GVLT-led volunteer
projects.
• Cannery Development – Assistance with wayfinding funding.
• Collin’s Coalition – Possible financial assistance with safety improvement projects, expert
safety related advice.
• Gallatin Valley Bicycle Club - Volunteer support during GVLT-led volunteer projects. Trail
advice.
• Midtown Urban Renewal District – Assistance with wayfinding and funding partner.
• Molly Stratton Design – Will lead design work on wayfinding signs and maps.
• MSU Architectural Program – Ongoing user surveys, design input, coordinating
neighborhood planning sessions (“charrettes”), data collection.
• Rails to Trail Conservancy – Planning and funding for Great American Rail Trail
development.
• Run Dog Run – Financial assistance in wayfinding to dog parks in or near the corridor.
• Southwest Montana Mountain Bikers Association – Volunteer support during GVLT-led
volunteer projects. Trail advice.
• Trust for Public Land – Coordination and assistance in improving trail connectivity near
Story Mill Community Park.
• Several homeowners associations may be engaged in the project to improve trails on their
property.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 14
Section 6
Anticipated maintenance requirements for the project and who will be
responsible.
One of the most positive aspects of this project is that the maintenance needs will be
low, and within established service areas for those involved. A great deal of the path and
trails to be brought into network already exist and are covered by maintenance
directives or protocols. There will be little change to existing maintenance needs
directly from this project. Trails within HOAs are to be maintained by the HOAs until
creation of a City of Bozeman Parks and Trails Special District and that aspect will be
coordinated by the City Recreation & Parks Department.
Wayfinding signage has a long service life and requires little annual maintenance.
GVLT has a demonstrated success record of working with the City to update, repair, and
add trail signage; this cooperation will continue. A Memorandum of Agreement would
be recommended to better clarify roles and responsibilities if this project is funded.
The trails and signage would be inventoried and included in the Parks & Trails Special
District as proposed. Funding will be generated by the Special District to maintain the
trails, signage and infrastructure within established designations.
GVLT will continue its long-standing partnership with the Recreation and Parks to
conduct volunteer trail projects on City lands as well as working cooperatively with
home owners associations.
GVLT volunteer repairing a trail bridge
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 15
Section 7
Mitigation needs on any part of the proposed network?
The network is being designed to limit needs for trail easements by utilizing existing
public paths and trails and remaining within City rights-of-ways along streets.
Little environmental permitting is anticipated unless a bridge is to be replaced.
Permitting those projects are part of the City’s standard due diligence and the City
would undertake the process as needed. No new bridges are being proposed within this
project, but could be considered if the City deems it necessary.
City staff may need to coordinate with several HOAs in efforts to re-establish or enhance
trails that are the HOA’s responsibility to maintain. This coordination could be phased,
or coordinated with the Parks & Trails Special District implementation. Alternate routes
could be established to detour around these areas until the trails are brought up to City
standards.
Pleasant evening on a west side trail
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 16
Summary of Project Goals
Goals
• Improve Public Safety o Directs path and trail users to safer crossings, established bike lanes, existing
trails. o Identifies off-street path and trail routes to move people off streets in many areas. o The majority of paths and trails segments had been identified in PROST and
transportation plans as important linkages. Important to now connect them into
routes and networks.
• Enhance Connectivity o Connects rapidly expanding west neighborhoods with eastern and central parts of
Bozeman. o Links commercial/residential in fast-growing areas.
o Connects destinations: Gallatin High School, Sports Park, Regional Park,
Midtown, Fairgrounds, Story Mill Park, Path to the M and Drinking Horse,
downtown, Cannery District, N 7th, N 19th. o Connects with existing and expanding path and trail networks throughout the
core and central areas of Bozeman. o Offers opportunities to extend trail systems west in the “Triangle” and toward
Belgrade/Manhattan. Provides focus for future community planning efforts. o Provides national level trail connectivity through the planned Great American
Rail Trail.
• Synergy and Opportunity o Integrates with newly built parks, the new high school, and growing
neighborhoods. o Creates safe and convenient connection within and among neighborhoods and
services. o Montana State University’s School of Architecture Program is actively surveying
northwest Bozeman residents about their trail usage and needs. This data is to be
integrated into this project.
o Corresponds in many areas with existing and future Streamline routes.
• Accessibility and variety o Paved pathways provide excellent accessibility opportunities, utilizing recently
built accessibility infrastructure on newer streets. o Connects to gravel paths and natural surface trails for variation of experience.
o Provides trail access to more-affordable housing developments.
• Leverage and sound investment o Uses existing paths and trails already in place.
o Uses existing on-street bike lanes already in place. o Focus of the project is in areas currently serviced and maintained by City
departments. Keeps maintenance requirements low by using durable materials.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 17
Proposed Connection Project Budget
Project Component Item Detail
Funding
TOP Proposal GVLT* CIP/ CILP
Signage
Map Kiosk (structure and
map) GVLT to lead map design
Standard kiosk and maps
Quant: 8
$18,000 $2,000
Trail Totems
GVLT to lead sign design & layout.
Totem construction and installation by contractor.
Standard totems and signage
on multiple sides as needed. Quant: 20
$26,000 $5,000
Wayfinding signs and
maps. GVLT to lead design,
content and layout. Installation by contractor
or City.
Signs and maps on metal
backers, steel posts Quant: 154 signs (77
locations, 2 signs per location), 22 maps
$51,500 $20,000
New gravel path construction Path excavation and gravel placement by
contractor. City lands only.
GVLT-led volunteer projects possible.
Estimated 2,500 lineal ft x 6 ft at $11/lin. ft $27,500 $5,000
Existing gravel
trail re-establishment or
improvement
Gravel donation by
Trident Cement Plant for volunteer projects. Does
not include hauling. Some portions by
contractor.
Estimated 4,000 lineal ft x 3-
6’ width, 3” top dressing
$12,000 $12,000
Trail counters Eco-Counter for Path to M.
Mobile counters for west side trails
To monitor trail usage and identify needs for additional
trails.
$15,000 $1,000
Street, curb,
crossing improvements.
CILP allowed expenditures
Improvement projects
determined by City with input from advisory
boards. Rec & Parks CILP
To be determined by City staff
with input from advisory boards.
Intent as stated by City staff is 1:1 match of TOP funding.
$150,000
Total $150,000 $45,000 $150,000
Project
Proportion 44% 56%
*GVLT sources include in-kind, State Trails and Recreational Facilities Account and Grant Program,
material donations, signage sponsorships, and neighborhood support.
TOP funding will not be used on the County Regional Park; other funding sources will be used.
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 18
East-West Trail Connection Wayfinding Signage Concepts
Trail Wayfinding Sign Concept
Note: Trail Name(s), Destinations, Final Design to be developed with City Staff
Location: Exiting Lakes at Valley West subdivision on trail at Durston Road. Looking northeast
toward new high school and Sports Park
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 19
Color-coding of Trail Networks Example with Orange Banner
Color Coded Sign Option with Icon to Further Identify Trail Networks
West Side Pathways and Trails Connection Project Page 20
Sample new Intermediary Wayfinding Maps
“You are Here” maps located at trail intersections
to supplement larger map kiosks
Metal post and sign option Map panel on trail totem option
Map
Panel