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Home My WebLink About12-04-25 - Transportation Coordinating Committee - Agendas & Packet MaterialsA. Call to Order - 1:00 p.m. B. Roll Call C. Approval of Minutes C.1 Approval of the Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization TPCC Meeting Minutes(Butts) D. Public Comments E. New Business E.1 Consideration of Adoption of the Public Participation Plan (Butts) THE GALLATIN VALLEY MPO - TRANSPORTATION POLICY COORDINATING COMMITTEE OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA TPCC AGENDA Wednesday, December 10, 2025 General information about the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee can be found in our Laserfiche repository. If you are interested in commenting in writing on items on the agenda please send an email to comments@bozeman.net or by visiting the Public Comment Page prior to 12:00pm on the day before the meeting. Public comments will also be accepted through Video Conference during the appropriate agenda items. Recordings of the meeting will be available through the Commission's video page. For more information please contact Jeff Butts, jbutts@bozeman.net This meeting will be held using an online videoconferencing system. You can join this meeting: Via Video Conference: Click the Register link, enter the required information, and click submit. Click Join Now to enter the meeting. Via Phone: This is for listening only +1 719 359 4580 Access code: 982 8814 3813 This is the time to comment on any non-agenda matter falling within the scope of the Metropolitan Planning Organization. There will also be time in conjunction with each agenda item for public comment relating to that item but you may only speak once per topic. Please note, the Committee cannot take action on any item which does not appear on the agenda. All persons addressing the Committee shall speak in a civil and courteous manner and members of the audience shall be respectful of others. Please state your name and place of residence in an audible tone of voice for the record and limit your comments to three minutes. General public comments to the Committee can be found on their Laserfiche repository page. 1 F. General Discussion F.1 Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Staff Update (Butts) G. Adjournment This Committee generally meets the fourth Wednesday of every month from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. All meetings are open to all members of the public. If you have a disability that requires assistance, please contact our ADA Coordinator, David Arnado, at 406.582.3232. 2 Memorandum REPORT TO:Gallatin Valley MPO - Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee FROM:Jeff Butts, MPO Manager SUBJECT: Approval of the Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization TPCC Meeting Minutes MEETING DATE:December 10, 2025 AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission RECOMMENDATION:I move to approve the Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization TPCC Meeting Minutes for the dates presented. STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver information to the community and our partners. BACKGROUND: Minutes from the past ten months of the Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization TPCC, when held, have been completed. Minutes from the following dates are attached for review and approval: March 26, 2025 June 25, 2025 July 23, 2025 August 27, 2025 UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None ALTERNATIVES:As recommended by the committee. FISCAL EFFECTS:None Attachments: 032625 MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes 062525 MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes 072325 MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes 082725 MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes Report compiled on: October 30, 2025 3 4 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, March 26, 2025 Page 1 of 3 THE GALLATIN VALLEY MPO TPCC MEETING OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA MINUTES March 26, 2025 A. 00:00:45 Call to Order -1:00 p.m. B. 00:00:50 Roll Call Present: Terry Cunningham, Douglas Fischer, Neil Cardwell, Scott MacFarlane, Geno Liva, Mark Egge, Danae Giannetti Absent: None Excused: None Others present at the meeting; Jeff Butts, Marcy Yeykal, Beth Clarkson, Mitch Buthod, Katie Potts, Emily Talago C. 00:01:12 Approval of Minutes C.1 Approval of the February 26, 2025 Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organiz ation TPCC Meeting Minutes (Butts) 00:01:34 Motion to approve C. Approval of Minutes Neil Cardwell: Motion Mark Egge: 2nd 00:01:54 Vote on the Motion to approve C. Approval of Minutes The Motion carried 7 - 0. Approve: Terry Cunningham Douglas Fischer Neil Cardwell Scott MacFarlane Geno Liva 5 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, March 26, 2025 Page 2 of 3 Mark Egge Danae Giannetti Disapprove: None D. 00:02:25 Public Comments 00:02:49 Emily Talago, Public Comment Emily commented on the non disclosure agreement from the February 26 meeting. E. 00:06:51 New Business E.1 00:06:55 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP): Selection Process and Transparency Revi ew (Butts) MPO Manager, Jeff Butts presented the Update to the Long Range Transportation Plan. 00:17:15 Public Comment There was no public comment E.2 00:17:29 Approve Final Scope of Work with Nelson Nygaard for Long Range Transportation Plan (Butts) MPO Manager, Jeff Butts presented the final scope of work with Nelsen Nygaard for the Long Range Transportation Plan. 00:26:02 Questions from the committee. 00:37:54 Public Comment There was no public comment 00:38:21 Motion to approve E.2 Approve Final Scope of Work with Nelson Nygaard for Long Range Transportation Plan (Butts) Douglas Fischer: Motion Scott MacFarlane: 2nd 00:39:24 Vote on the Motion to approve E.2 Approve Final Scope of Work with Nelson Nygaard for Long Range Transportation Plan (Butts) The Motion carried 7 - 0. Approve: Terry Cunningham Douglas Fischer 6 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, March 26, 2025 Page 3 of 3 Neil Cardwell Scott MacFarlane Geno Liva Mark Egge Danae Giannetti Disapprove: None F. 00:39:49 General Discussion F.1 00:39:52 Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Staff Update (Butts) MPO Manager, Jeff Butts provided a staff update tot he committee. 00:43:03 Public Comment There was no public comment 00:43:17 FYI from the committee Thursday at City Hall in Belgrade they will be hosting a open house for the Transportation alternatives plan and all are welcome to join. G. 00:43:57 Adjournment This Committee generally meets the fourth Wednesday of every month from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 7 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, June 25, 2025 Page 1 of 3 THE GALLATIN VALLEY MPO TPCC MEETING OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA MINUTES June 25, 2025 A. 00:00:01 Call to Order -1:00 p.m. B. 00:00:23 Roll Call Present: Terry Cunningham, Douglas Fischer, Neil Cardwell, Scott MacFarlane, Brandon Jones Proxy for Geno Liva , Mark Egge Absent: None Excused: None Also at the meeting; Jeff Butts, Marcy Yeykal, Sunshine Ross, Ken Winegar, Russel Nelson, Mitch Buthod, Katie Potts, Josh Springer, Brit Fontenot, Tessa Wermers and the Gallatin Valley Sentinel. Brandon Jones proxy for Gino Liva arrived after the roll call. C. 00:00:55 Approval of Minutes There was no approval of minutes. The minutes maker software is down. Once back up and running the committee will approval all of the missed minutes. D. 00:01:07 Public Comments There was no public comment. E. 00:01:32 New Business E.1 Approval of Transportation Alternatives (TA) Grant Awards for the Improvement of Multimodal Facilities and Safe Routes to School Program within the Bozeman Urbaniz ed Area (Butts) 00:02:28 Staff Presentation 8 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, June 25, 2025 Page 2 of 3 Jeff Butts, MPO Manager presented the Approval of Transportation Alternatives grant awards for the Improvement of Municipal Facilities and Safe Route to School Program within the Bozeman Urbanized Area. 00:09:48 Questions of Staff 00:14:55 Public Comment There was no request for public comment 00:15:41 Motion to approve E.1 Approval of Transportation Alternatives (TA) Grant Awards for the Improvement of Multimodal Facilities and Safe Routes to School Program within the Bozeman Urbanized Area (Butts) Scott MacFarlane: Motion Douglas Fischer: 2nd 00:17:10 Vote on the Motion to approve E.1 Approval of Transportation Alternatives (TA) Grant Awards for the Improvement of Multimodal Facilities and Safe Routes to School Program within the Bozeman Urbanized Area (Butts) The Motion carried 6 - 0. Approve: Terry Cunningham Douglas Fischer Neil Cardwell Scott MacFarlane Brandon Jones Proxy for Geno Liva Mark Egge Disapprove: None F. 00:17:58 General Discussion F.1 Discussion: Scoping the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for Federal Fisc al Year (FFY) 2026 (Butts) 00:18:05 Staff Presentation Jeff Butts, MPO Manager presented the scoping of the Unified Planning Work Program for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026. 00:24:29 Questions of Staff 00:34:05 Public Comment 9 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, June 25, 2025 Page 3 of 3 There was no request for public comment F.2 Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Staff Update (Butts) 00:35:01 Staff presentation Jeff Butts, MPO Manger jeff Butts presented the Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization Staff Updates. 00:39:48 Questions of Staff 00:43:45 Public Comment There was no public comment G. 00:44:16 Adjournment This Committee generally meets the fourth Wednesday of every month from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 10 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, July 23, 2025 Page 1 of 2 THE GALLATIN VALLEY MPO TPCC MEETING OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA MINUTES July 23, 2025 A. 00:04:54 Call to Order -1:00 p.m. B. 00:05:00 Roll Call Present: Terry Cunningham, Douglas Fischer, Gino Liva (Dave Cunningham Proxy) Absent: Neil Cardwell, Scott Macfarlane Excused: Mark Egge C. 00:05:29 Approval of Minutes There was no approval of minutes. D. 00:05:33 Public Comments Marilee Brown, Public Comment Marilee provided comments on the Valley Spur documents she has reviewed during her tenure with the Pedestrian Safety Program. She also commented on a scary situation that happened at the intersection of the spur. E. 00:10:44 New Business E.1 00:10:52 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) Work Session (Butts) MPO Manager, Jeff Butts presented the Unified Planning Work Program work Session to the committee. 00:20:34 Questions of Staff 00:33:21 Public Comment There was no public comment. 11 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, July 23, 2025 Page 2 of 2 F. General Discussion F.1 00:33:44 Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Staff Update (Butts) MPO Manager, Jeff Butts presented the Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization Staff Update to the committee. 00:35:01 Sunshine Ross, Director of Transit presented an update on the Streamline UPWP to the committee. 00:43:49 Questions of Staff 00:44:37 Public Comment There was no public comment. 00:45:11 MPO Manager, Jeff Butts presented the staff update to the committee. 00:50:30 Public Comment There was no public Comment. G. 00:51:00 Adjournment This Committee generally meets the fourth Wednesday of every month from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 12 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, August 27, 2025 Page 1 of 3 THE GALLATIN VALLEY MPO TPCC MEETING OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA MINUTES August 27, 2025 A. 00:01:45 Call to Order -1:00 p.m. B. 00:01:52 Roll Call Present: Terry Cunningham, Douglas Fischer, Neil Cardwell, Scott MacFarlane, Geno Liva, Mark Egge (Sunshine Ross as Proxy) Absent: None Excused: None Others present at the meeting: Jeff Butts, Marcy Yeykal, Michael Stone, Mitch Buthod, Beth Clarkson, Katie Potts, Ken Winegar, Doug McBroom, Marilee Brown, and The Gallatin Valley Sentinel. C. 00:02:29 Approval of Minutes There were no minutes to approve. D. 00:02:46 Public Comments 00:03:07 Marilee Brown, Public comment Marilee commented that the board should formal recognize accept and incorporate former previous TCC actions and motion into the MPO. E. 00:05:27 New Business E.1 00:05:32 Approval of the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP ) (Butts) MPO Manager, Jeff Butts Presented the approval of the federal fiscal year 2026 unified planning work program to the committee. 00:18:16 Questions for Staff 13 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, August 27, 2025 Page 2 of 3 00:20:37 Public Comment 00:21:08 Motion to approve E.1 Approval of the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) (Butts) Neil Cardwell: Motion Douglas Fischer: 2nd 00:21:51 Discussion 00:23:43 Vote on the Motion to approve E.1 Approval of the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) (Butts) The Motion carried 6 - 0. Approve: Terry Cunningham Douglas Fischer Neil Cardwell Scott MacFarlane Geno Liva Mark Egge (Sunshine Ross as Proxy) Disapprove: None E.2 00:24:13 Appointment of At- Large Member to the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (Butts) MPO Manager, Jeff Butts Presented the Appointment of At-Large Member to the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee. 00:26:32 Discussion from the committee. 00:32:21 Public Comment 00:34:47 Motion to approve E.2 Appointment of At- Large Member to the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (Butts) Scott MacFarlane: Motion Douglas Fischer: 2nd 00:35:30 Discussion 14 Gallatin Valley MPO TPCC Meeting Minutes, August 27, 2025 Page 3 of 3 00:37:27 Vote on the Motion to approve E.2 Appointment of At- Large Member to the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (Butts) The Motion carried 6 - 0. Approve: Terry Cunningham Douglas Fischer Neil Cardwell Scott MacFarlane Geno Liva Mark Egge (Sunshine Ross as Proxy) Disapprove: None F. 00:37:55 General Discussion F.1 00:38:00 Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Staff Update (Butts) PO Manager, Jeff Butts Presented the Staff Update to the committee. 00:41:35 Questions for Staff 00:43:41 Public Comment 00:44:00 Update from Sunshine Ross G. 00:44:44 Adjournment This Committee generally meets the fourth Wednesday of every month from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 15 Memorandum REPORT TO:Gallatin Valley MPO - Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee FROM:Jeff Butts, MPO Manager SUBJECT:Consideration of Adoption of the Public Participation Plan MEETING DATE:December 10, 2025 AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Plan/Report/Study RECOMMENDATION:Consider the Motion: I move to adopt the Public Participation Plan. STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver information to the community and our partners. BACKGROUND:The MPO is federally required to approve and maintain a Public Participation Plan (PPP) to guide public involvement in transportation planning. The Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) has reviewed the draft PPP on three occasions; it completed the required 45-day public comment period, and all comments were addressed. TTAC unanimously recommended approval of the PPP at its November 12, 2025 meeting. The PPP is now ready for the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee's (TPCC) consideration for adoption. This is an action item. The PPP establishes the framework for effective public engagement in the MPO’s planning processes. It is publicly accessible and outlines comprehensive public engagement strategies, including tools, outreach methodologies, discussion on publicly posted committee meeting agendas, and suggested timelines for development of core MPO products, such as the annual Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) and Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). The document outlines the structure of the Gallatin Valley MPO and describes the roles and membership of both TPCC and TTAC, including when each committee meets. It summarizes federal requirements for MPO planning products and establishes the following public review periods: a minimum of 14 days for the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and UPWP, 30 days for the LRTP, and 45 days for the PPP. The PPP introduces the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum of Public Participation as the MPO’s engagement framework. It outlines the five levels of participation and explains how the framework functions as a menu of tools that may be used at different stages in the planning process. It also describes the specific engagement tools the 16 MPO may use – including online tools, surveys, and workshops – and explains how they align with each level of the IAP2 Spectrum. It provides suggested development timelines for core MPO products, illustrating when public involvement will typically occur during plan development. Finally, the PPP establishes adoption and amendment procedures for all MPO planning document as follows: Adoptions and Major Amendments: Require review by both TTAC and TPCC. Must follow the full public review periods established within the PPP. Any amendment involving capacity expansion or right-of-way acquisition must use this full process. Minor Amendments: May proceed with TPCC review alone when timelines are constrained. Used only when changes due not trigger the criteria for a major amendment. Administrative Approvals: Limited to time-sensitive or emergency situations. May be used only when a revision does not change the project scope, cost, or schedule beyond defined thresholds. The MPO Manager and TPCC Chair issue a Final Notice to TPCC members. TPCC members have five days to object. If no objection is received, the item may be approved administratively and is reported at the next TTAC and TPCC meetings. Approval of the PPP ensures federal compliance and provides structure for public participation in MPO activities. Upon adoption, the PPP will be posted on the MPO website. It may be updated as needed to reflect future requirements or best practices. Staff requests adoption of the Public Participation Plan. UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None. ALTERNATIVES:As suggested by the committee. FISCAL EFFECTS:None. Attachments: Public_Participation_Plan_TPCC.pdf Report compiled on: November 4, 2025 17 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN 18 2 This page is intentionally left blank. 19 3 Table of Contents Table of Contents ...................................................................................................................................... 3 Public Notification and Access .................................................................................................................. 5 Regional Transportation in Gallatin Valley ................................................................................................ 6 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 7 Purpose ..................................................................................................................................................... 7 Partnership ................................................................................................................................................ 7 Organizational Structure ........................................................................................................................... 7 Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (TPCC): ........................................................................... 8 Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC): ............................................................................. 8 Non-Voting Members on the TTAC: ...................................................................................................... 8 Additional Non-Voting Members as Determined by Each Governing Body:......................................... 9 Required Planning Documents .................................................................................................................. 9 Public Participation ................................................................................................................................. 10 Values of Public Participation .................................................................................................................. 10 Diverse Community Input and Outreach ................................................................................................ 11 Framework for Public Participation......................................................................................................... 11 Spectrum of Participation ....................................................................................................................... 12 Inform ...................................................................................................................................................... 12 Consult .................................................................................................................................................... 13 Involve ..................................................................................................................................................... 13 Collaborate .............................................................................................................................................. 14 Empower ................................................................................................................................................. 14 How Engagement is Done ....................................................................................................................... 14 Public Review and Notice ........................................................................................................................ 15 Planning Windows and Product Timelines ............................................................................................. 15 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) ............................................................................................ 16 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) .............................................................................................. 16 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) ....................................................................................... 17 Public Participation Plan (PPP) ............................................................................................................ 18 Adoption and Amendment Policies ........................................................................................................ 18 Adoptions & Major Amendments (LRTP, TIP, PPP) .............................................................................. 18 Minor Amendments & Other Documents ........................................................................................... 18 20 4 Administrative Approvals .................................................................................................................... 19 21 5 Public Notification and Access • Public Notices: Public participation activities are announced at least 48 hours in advance, excluding weekends, on the MPO’s website, www.gvmpo.org. Regular Committee meetings are typically posted the Friday preceding the meeting. • Online Meetings: The MPO’s committees primarily meet online with occasional in- person meetings. The public is welcome to attend. Meeting calendars, minutes, agendas, and other information are available on the GVMPO Meetings Calendar. • Language Access: To support inclusive participation, the GVMPO website utilizes an automated language translation tool. Interpretation services are available upon request for individuals with limited English proficiency. Call (406) 577-7416 for assistance. Acceso Lingüístico: Para apoyar una participación inclusiva, el sitio web de GVMPO utiliza una herramienta automática de traducción de idiomas. Los servicios de interpretación oral están disponibles bajo solicitud para personas con dominio limitado del inglés. Llame al (406) 577-7416 para obtener asistencia. 22 6 Regional Transportation in Gallatin Valley The Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (GVMPO) coordinates transportation planning within the Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA). GVMPO connects local governments, transportation agencies, and the public to plan and prioritize projects that improve multimodal mobility, support economic vitality, increase safety and security of the transportation system, improve access, enhance quality of life, strengthen connectivity, increase system resiliency and reliability, promote efficiency, enhance travel and tourism, and preserve existing infrastructure. Figure 1. Map of GVMPO’s Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA) 23 7 Introduction Bozeman became a metropolitan area as a result of the 2020 Census, when it recorded a population that exceeded 50,000. Surpassing this population benchmark introduced a federal requirement to establish a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). The MPO was created with the collaboration of several key partners, including: • City of Bozeman • City of Belgrade • Gallatin County • Montana Department of Transportation • Streamline Transit (Gallatin Valley Urban Transportation District) An MPO is a federally mandated organization that coordinates local governments in transportation planning. While achieving MPO status does not directly increase funding, it can enhance access to federal resources and improve planning coordination across the region. Purpose This document outlines strategies to ensure effective engagement and maintain transparency throughout all planning activities. By promoting community involvement, the Public Participation Plan (PPP) ensures that all stakeholders – including individuals, agencies, service providers, and underserved communities – have opportunities to contribute, thereby integrating diverse perspectives into the decision-making process. The PPP provides a framework to: • Encourage public involvement across a broad spectrum of participants. • Promote transparency and responsiveness in decision-making. • Ensure compliance with federal and state requirements. Partnership GVMPO builds and maintains collaborative relationships with federal, state, and local partners. This cooperative relationship is formalized through the 3-C (continuing, cooperative, comprehensive) Agreement, an agreement for the distribution of Planning (PL) funds, the Interlocal Agreement for the Gallatin Valley MPO, and other related agreements. Regular consultations guide the development of MPO plans and programs, ensuring alignment with regional and national priorities. Organizational Structure GVMPO operates under the oversight of the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (TPCC), which comprises elected officials from all jurisdictions within the Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA). Supporting the TPCC, the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) consists of staff from these jurisdictions and provides technical guidance on regional transportation planning. 24 8 GVMPO committee meetings are open to the public, with agendas, summaries, and materials regularly posted on the GVMPO website. Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (TPCC): The TPCC leads the MPO and includes elected officials from jurisdictions in the Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA): • Bozeman Mayor • Appointed Bozeman Commission Member • Belgrade City Manager • Gallatin County Commission Chair • Gallatin Valley Urban Transportation District (UTD) Chair • At-Large Member (appointed) • Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) District Administrator Note: The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) participates as a non-voting member. Meetings are held on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 1:00 p.m. Agendas are posted to the GVMPO Meetings Calendar, typically the Friday before each meeting. Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC): This committee provides technical guidance to the TPCC. Membership includes the following: • Bozeman Director of Community Development • Bozeman Director of Transportation and Engineering • Belgrade Director of Community Development • Belgrade Director of Public Works • Gallatin County Chief Planning Officer • Gallatin County Engineering Director • MDT Statewide and Urban Planning Supervisor • MDT District Preconstruction Engineer • Gallatin Valley UTD Director • Gallatin Valley UTD Operations Coordinator • Montana State University Associate Vice President of Facilities Non-Voting Members on the TTAC: • Bozeman/Yellowstone International Airport Manager of Operations 25 9 • Gallatin City-County Health Officer • Representative of Bozeman School District 7 • Representative of Belgrade School District 44 Additional Non-Voting Members as Determined by Each Governing Body: • Chair of Bozeman Planning Board • Chair of Belgrade Planning Board • Chair of County Planning Board Meetings are scheduled on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Agendas are posted to the GVMPO Meetings Calendar, typically the Friday before each meeting. Required Planning Documents The MPO is federally mandated to complete the following: • Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP): Updated every five years, with multiple engagement opportunities for public input. o Purpose: Provides a framework for future regional transportation, including identifying projects. o Updates: Every five years. o Time Horizon: At least 20 years. o Public Review Period: 30 days. • Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): Updated every four years, offering regular opportunities for comment and review. o Purpose: Enables scheduling of federal funds for surface transportation projects, aligning them with regional and short-term priorities for the area. o Updates: Every four years. o Time Horizon: Five years. o Public Review Period: Minimum of 14 days. • Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP): Annual planning activities and funding allocations with opportunities for public insight. o Purpose: Serves as the MPO’s integrated budget and business plan. o Updates: Every year. o Time Horizon: One year. o Public Review Period: Minimum of 14 days. 26 10 • Public Participation Plan (PPP): Updated periodically to ensure alignment with best practices and solicit public feedback on MPO engagement. o Purpose: Establishes a framework for public engagement. o Updates: As needed. o Time Horizon: No expiration date. o Public Review Period: 45 days. • Annual Listing of Obligated Projects: The MPO will publish an annual list of projects obligated by the Montana Department of Transportation, including federally funded projects and investments in bicycling and walking. Public input opportunities will be provided for all required documents. The MPO will carefully review and consider all comments received and determine the most effective method for addressing them. Potential responses may include direct communication with the individual providing the comment, posting formal responses on the MPO website, including public comments and responses in the final document, or establishment of a dedicated webpage for frequently asked questions. Public Participation GVMPO is dedicated to fostering meaningful public involvement in regional transportation planning through the PPP. It provides a comprehensive framework for involving the public and informing residents of opportunities to participate in decision-making processes. This PPP establishes strategies for effective engagement and transparency. By encouraging public participation, the PPP provides opportunities for all stakeholders to contribute, integrating diverse perspectives into the decision-making process. Community members are encouraged to attend Committee meetings and participate in discussions, contributing to a transportation future that reflects local values and needs. Their involvement is essential in shaping the region’s transportation priorities and direction. Values of Public Participation Public participation is key to effective regional transportation planning. Embracing these core values, the MPO helps ensure the planning process is diverse and reflects community needs: • Inclusiveness: The MPO engages all stakeholders – including individuals, community groups, agencies, service providers, and underserved communities – proactively seeking diverse perspectives, ensuring all voices are heard and considered. • Collaboration: Working together with the community enhances decision-making by incorporating local knowledge and expertise. • Transparency: Open communication and clear information sharing build trust and allow the public to see how input influences decisions. • Accountability: Public involvement fosters alignment between government actions and the community's priorities. 27 11 • Improved Decision-Making: Public participation helps identify potential issues early on and encourages innovative approaches to complex transportation challenges. Diverse Community Input and Outreach GVMPO is committed to actively engaging communities that have historically been underserved by existing transportation systems, including low-income households and minority communities. The MPO will employ targeted outreach strategies, such as community meetings, multilingual communications, and accessible feedback channels – to ensure all have meaningful opportunities to participate in the planning process. Through these efforts, the goal is to capture and integrate unique perspectives and experiences into the decision-making process. Framework for Public Participation GVMPO continually evaluates its public engagement efforts to assess the effectiveness of outreach strategies and research diverse techniques, practices, and technologies to stay current with public engagement trends. To ensure a structured and effective engagement process, GVMPO uses the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum of Participation as the guiding framework for the PPP. The IAP2 Spectrum is influential in community engagement and delineates five distinct levels of public participation – Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate, and Empower – each corresponding to varying degrees of public interaction tailored for specific needs. Each level corresponds to a public participation goal and a promise to the public: • Inform: Provide stakeholders with balanced and objective information to enhance their understanding of transportation issues, alternatives, and solutions. • Consult: Seek public feedback on analysis, alternatives, and decisions to incorporate community insights into the planning process. • Involve: Engage the public directly throughout the process to ensure their concerns and aspirations are consistently understood and addressed. • Collaborate: Partner with the public in all aspects of decision-making, including the development of alternatives and the identification of preferred solutions. • Empower: Delegate final decision-making authority to the public, ensuring that community members have control over the outcomes. By utilizing the IAP2 Spectrum, the PPP ensures that engagement strategies are appropriately matched to the specific needs and contexts of each transportation planning phase. This framework promotes best practices in public participation, fostering better-informed decisions while aligning MPO products with community values. 28 12 Figure 2. International Association of Public Participation’s Spectrum of Participation By adhering to principles of the IAP2 Spectrum, employing appropriate tools and techniques, and remaining mindful of emerging trends and challenges, the MPO aims to foster inclusive, transparent, and meaningful public involvement. Spectrum of Participation Each level of the IAP2 Spectrum represents a distinct degree of public influence on decision- making. Accordingly, specific tools and processes for each level are outlined for effectively engaging the community in the MPO’s planning efforts. While these tools are not strictly confined to their designated spectrum levels – their application may vary based on how participation is facilitated – they provide a framework for fostering effective participation. Inform The goal of this level of involvement is to provide the public with balanced and objective information to help them understand the issues, alternatives, opportunities, and solutions. Promise to the Public: "We will keep you informed." Tools and Processes: • Website Updates: Regularly update the MPO's website with current project information, timelines, and FAQs. 29 13 • Newsletters and Fact Sheets: Distribute electronic or printed materials summarizing key information about projects and plans. • Press Releases and Media Outreach: Share information through local newspapers, radio, and television stations. • Social Media Platforms: Use social media to disseminate updates and important announcements. • Email Updates: Send periodic emails to subscribers with news and developments. • Phone: The public may call (406)577-7416 to speak with MPO staff. Consult The goal of this level of involvement is to obtain public feedback on analysis and alternatives. Promise to the Public: "We will keep you informed, listen to and acknowledge your concerns and aspirations, and provide feedback on how your input influenced the decision." Tools and Processes: • Public Comment Periods: Allow time for the public to review and comment on draft plans and documents. • Surveys and Questionnaires: Conduct online or paper surveys to gather opinions and preferences. • Public Meetings and Open Houses: Host events where community members can ask questions and provide feedback. • Focus Groups: Small group discussions to delve deeper into specific issues. • Interactive Maps and Tools: Use online platforms where the public can comment on specific locations or proposals. • Feedback Forms: Provide forms at events and online for submitting comments and suggestions. Members of the public may submit comments via the Contact Form. Involve The goal of this level of involvement is to work directly with the public throughout the process to ensure that public concerns and aspirations are consistently understood and considered. Promise to the Public: "We will work with you to ensure your concerns and aspirations are directly reflected in the alternatives developed, and we will provide feedback on how your input influenced the decision." Tools and Processes: • Community Advisory Panels: Project-based panels provide input and feedback that informs decisions. The decision-making authority rests with the MPO. • Public Forums and Town Halls: Facilitate open discussions where the public can interact directly with planners and decision-makers. 30 14 • Workshops: Engage stakeholders in interactive design and planning sessions. • Stakeholder Meetings: Hold regular meetings with key community groups, nonprofits, and local businesses. • Site Visits and Walking Tours: Invite the public to visit project sites to better understand the context and impact. • Online Discussion Boards: Create platforms for continuous dialogue and idea sharing. Collaborate The goal of this level of involvement is to partner with the public in each aspect of the decision, including developing alternatives and identifying the preferred solution. Promise to the Public: "We will look to you for advice and innovation in formulating solutions and will incorporate your advice and recommendations to the maximum extent possible." Tools and Processes: • Joint Planning Committees: Include community members and stakeholders in formal planning committees. • Collaborative Workshops: Co-create solutions through intensive, hands-on sessions. • Consensus-Building Activities: Use facilitation techniques to find common ground among diverse groups. • Participatory Decision-Making: Implement processes where the public actively participates in making decisions. • Partnership Agreements: Establish formal partnerships with community organizations for shared project development. Empower This level of involvement places final decision-making in the hands of the public. Tools and Processes: • Ballot Measures: The public votes directly on important issues or projects related to regional transportation. • Citizen-Led Initiatives: Projects that are initiated and managed by community groups. By adhering to the principles of the IAP2 Spectrum, employing appropriate tools and techniques, and remaining mindful of emerging trends and challenges, the MPO strives to foster inclusive, transparent, and accountable public involvement. The goal is to make public participation meaningful and effective in shaping the region’s transportation future. How Engagement is Done These tools highlight various methods the MPO will use when seeking public input: • Website: The website, gvmpo.org, provides meeting notices, relevant documents, and access to information on transportation planning and MPO activities. 31 15 • Visuals: The MPO regularly uses visualization techniques to assist with programs and plans, including maps and graphics. • Surveys and Questionnaires: Web-based surveys to solicit public opinion regarding regional transportation planning. • Social Media: Updates and engagement through platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, which may include partner cross-posting to their networks. • Technology: Leveraging crowdsourcing and innovative engagement opportunities. • News and Notifications: Online updates and alerts regarding events, public meetings, and opportunities for community involvement. • Public Meetings: Convenient locations and ADA-compliant settings to ensure full participation. These can take a variety of formal and informal settings. • Targeted Outreach: Targeted engagement with community members and stakeholders, including minority groups. • Embedded Involvement: Engaging directly with established groups by presenting MPO project updates and gathering feedback within existing meetings or events. • Advisory Panels / Groups: Temporary, project-based citizen input group that meets at key milestones in the plan or study. These may inform the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) and other large studies, but will not be included in every project. The PPP is reviewed and updated periodically to incorporate improvements based on evaluation and changing requirements. Public Review and Notice Building on the IAP2 Spectrum, the TPCC, TTAC, and MPO staff prioritize meaningful public participation throughout plan development. Substantive input and public comment are essential for preparing and updating the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), and this Public Participation Plan (PPP). The text below illustrates suggested timelines for each core MPO plan and program, highlighting key steps and corresponding opportunities for public participation. The Framework of Public Participation summarizes the tools that may be used for each process. This section specifies the public review periods and notice procedures for updates and amendments to MPO documents. Planning Windows and Product Timelines Soliciting public participation is a priority for the TPCC, TTAC, and MPO staff. Meaningful input is essential to developing and updating the MPO’s core transportation planning documents: the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), and this Public Participation Plan (PPP). 32 16 The following illustrate suggested participation opportunities during development of each plan. The bullets below summarize potential public review periods and notification requirements for updates and amendments. Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) The UPWP outlines the transportation planning activities that will take place each Federal Fiscal Year (October 1 – September 30) within the MPA. The MPO prepares the UPWP annually for review by local, state, and federal partners. Locally, the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (TPCC) approves the UPWP. It is then submitted to the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), which forwards it to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for joint review and approval. The UPWP includes: • Program administration • Public involvement • Short- and long-range planning Schedule • May – June: Prepare draft UPWP • June – July: Review draft; public comment at TTAC and TPCC meetings. • July: TPCC local approval of the UPWP. • August: MDT/FHWA. • October: New UPWP in effect. Figure 3. Suggested timeline for developing the UPWP. Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) The LRTP sets a 20-year (or longer) planning horizon and outlines both short- and long-range strategies to build an integrated, multimodal system that moves people and goods efficiently. In areas meeting National Ambient Air Quality Standards, such as Gallatin Valley, the LRTP must be updated at least every five years. Public involvement Community engagement is key to the LRTP. In addition to TTAC and TPCC meetings, the MPO will offer multiple opportunities for engagement – such as open houses, community meetings, online tools, and electronic communications. If a consultant team is retained, public involvement will be designed and delivered in partnership with them to ensure a broad and inclusive process. 33 17 Schedule • Year 1, Q3 – Q4: Prepare scope of work. • Year 1, Q4 – Year 2, Q1: Prepare solicitation and complete procurement. • Year 2, Q1: Select consultant and award contract. • Year 2, Q1 – Year 4, Q1: Develop the LRTP. • Year 4, Q1: Adopt the plan. • Public Comment Opportunities – Year 1, Q4 – Year 4, Q1. Note: “Q1–Q4” refer to quarters of the calendar year. Figure 4. Suggested timeline for developing the LRTP. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is created with local, state, and federal partners. It lists the highest-priority transportation projects to be advanced over a five-year period following adoption of the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). The TIP includes a financial plan showing how the projects will be carried out with available funding. The following shows the suggested timeline for TIP development: Schedule • June – August: Call for Projects • July – August: Prepare Draft • September – October: Review Draft • November: MDT & FHWA Reviews • December: Adoption • Public Comment Opportunities: July – October Committee meetings 34 18 Figure 5. Suggested timeline for developing the TIP. Public Participation Plan (PPP) The Public Participation Plan (PPP) guides how the MPO involves the public in transportation planning. MPO staff may review it each year to evaluate how well it ensures open and accessible participation. Updates may be recommended by staff or by the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee (TPCC), especially when state or federal requirements change. Schedule The Public Participation Plan does not follow a fixed annual schedule. It is reviewed periodically by MPO staff. Any update or amendment requires a 45-day public comment period. Adoption and Amendment Policies These policies govern how the Gallatin Valley MPO adopts and amends its transportation planning documents – the LRTP, TIP, PPP, UPWP, and others. Actions are usually reviewed by the TTAC and/or TPCC. As noted, public notice is provided via the City of Bozeman’s calendar page and MPO electronic channels. It includes the agenda, provides opportunity to review, and comment during a committee meeting. Adoptions & Major Amendments (LRTP, TIP, PPP) TTAC and TPCC review LRTP and TIP adoptions and major amendments, and all PPP adoptions and amendments. Public review periods are 30 days for the LRTP, at least 14 days for the TIP, and 45 days for the PPP before TPCC action. This category includes: • Adoption of a new LRTP or TIP. • Adoption or amendment of the PPP (requires a 45-day public review period) • LRTP amendments that add, delete, or modify significant or federally funded projects. • Inclusion in the adopted TIP of a new capital project involving: o Capacity expansion, or o Right-of-way acquisition. • Removal of a project from the adopted TIP. Minor Amendments & Other Documents All other MPO document adoptions/amendments – and minor LRTP/TIP amendments – are reviewed by the TPCC. When time constraints exist, the MPO Manager and TPCC Chair may waive TTAC review and the standard notice, except for the PPP. • Adoption/amendment of the UPWP • Adding to the TIP projects/programs without capacity expansion or right-of-way 35 19 • TIP cost changes that exceed the thresholds below (trigger a minor amendment) Project Cost Percent Increase in Cost Under $100,000 30 percent $100,000 - $500,000 25 percent $500,000 - $1,000,000 20 percent $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 15 percent Over $2,000,000 10 percent • Converting illustrative projects to funded after formal awards when TPCC previously reviewed/acted (e.g., TA, HSIP, transit capital) – new Illustrative projects seeking funding must follow Major Amendment procedures. • LRTP policy/text updates for compliance. • Any other MPO product requiring TPCC approval. Administrative Approvals Certain revisions to MPO documents may be approved administratively by the MPO Manager and the TPCC Chair if no TPCC member objects within five (5) business days of a Final Notice. These revisions do not require TTAC review or the standard public comment period. All administrative approvals shall be reported at the next TTAC and TPCC meetings. This applies to the following: • TIP text or graphic changes that do not affect project costs, scopes, or schedules. • TIP revisions changing the proposed year of an existing project phase. • TIP revisions changing project/program costs within the following thresholds: Project Cost Percent Increase in Cost Under $100,000 30 percent $100,000 - $500,000 25 percent $500,000 - $1,000,000 20 percent $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 15 percent Over $2,000,000 10 percent • Inclusion of new capital projects marked “illustrative” (unfunded, time-sensitive, or emergency related) Final Notice: MPO staff will issue a “Final Notice” by email to TTAC and TPCC members. The subject line shall read “Final Notice” and include details of the request, instructions to submit objections, and the response deadline. TPCC voting members have five (5) business days to object. TTAC members are notified but do not vote. If no objection is received, the request may be approved administratively. If any TPCC voting member objects, the item will follow the Minor Amendments process at the next TPCC meeting. 36 20 Appendix A Public Participation Plan Requirements Title 23 CFR § 450.316 § 450.316 Interested parties, participation, and consultation. (a) The MPO shall develop and use a documented participation plan that defines a process for providing individuals, affected public agencies, representatives of public transportation employees, public ports, freight shippers, providers of freight transportation services, private providers of transportation (including intercity bus operators, employer-based commuting programs, such as carpool program, vanpool program, transit benefit program, parking cash-out program, shuttle program, or telework program), representatives of users of public transportation, representatives of users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities, representatives of the disabled, and other interested parties with reasonable opportunities to be involved in the metropolitan transportation planning process. (1) The MPO shall develop the participation plan in consultation with all interested parties and shall, at a minimum, describe explicit procedures, strategies, and desired outcomes for: (i) Providing adequate public notice of public participation activities and time for public review and comment at key decision points, including a reasonable opportunity to comment on the proposed metropolitan transportation plan and the TIP; (ii) Providing timely notice and reasonable access to information about transportation issues and processes; (iii) Employing visualization techniques to describe metropolitan transportation plans and TIPs; (iv) Making public information (technical information and meeting notices) available in electronically accessible formats and means, such as the World Wide Web; (v) Holding any public meetings at convenient and accessible locations and times; (vi) Demonstrating explicit consideration and response to public input received during the development of the metropolitan transportation plan and the TIP; (vii) Seeking out and considering the needs of those traditionally underserved by existing transportation systems, such as low-income and minority households, who may face challenges accessing employment and other services; (viii) Providing an additional opportunity for public comment, if the final metropolitan transportation plan or TIP differs significantly from the version that was made available for public comment by the MPO and raises new material issues that interested parties could not reasonably have foreseen from the public involvement efforts; (ix) Coordinating with the statewide transportation planning public involvement and consultation processes under subpart B of this part; and (x) Periodically reviewing the effectiveness of the procedures and strategies contained in the participation plan to ensure a full and open participation process. (2) When significant written and oral comments are received on the draft metropolitan transportation plan and TIP (including the financial plans) as a result of the participation process in this section or 37 21 the interagency consultation process required under the EPA transportation conformity regulations (40 CFR part 93, subpart A), a summary, analysis, and report on the disposition of comments shall be made as part of the final metropolitan transportation plan and TIP. (3) A minimum public comment period of 45 calendar days shall be provided before the initial or revised participation plan is adopted by the MPO. Copies of the approved participation plan shall be provided to the FHWA and the FTA for informational purposes and shall be posted on the World Wide Web, to the maximum extent practicable. (b) In developing metropolitan transportation plans and TIPs, the MPO should consult with agencies and officials responsible for other planning activities within the MPA that are affected by transportation (including State and local planned growth, economic development, tourism, natural disaster risk reduction, environmental protection, airport operations, or freight movements) or coordinate its planning process (to the maximum extent practicable) with such planning activities. In addition, the MPO shall develop the metropolitan transportation plans and TIPs with due consideration of other related planning activities within the metropolitan area, and the process shall provide for the design and delivery of transportation services within the area that are provided by: (1) Recipients of assistance under title 49 U.S.C. Chapter 53; (2) Governmental agencies and non-profit organizations (including representatives of the agencies and organizations) that receive Federal assistance from a source other than the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide non-emergency transportation services; and (3) Recipients of assistance under 23 U.S.C. 201-204. (c) When the MPA includes Indian Tribal lands, the MPO shall appropriately involve the Indian Tribal government(s) in the development of the metropolitan transportation plan and the TIP. (d) When the MPA includes Federal public lands, the MPO shall appropriately involve the Federal land management agencies in the development of the metropolitan transportation plan and the TIP. (e) MPOs shall, to the extent practicable, develop a documented process(es) that outlines roles, responsibilities, and key decision points for consulting with other governments and agencies, as defined in paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section, which may be included in the agreement(s) developed under § 450.314. 38 Memorandum REPORT TO:Gallatin Valley MPO - Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee FROM:Jeff Butts, MPO Manager SUBJECT:Gallatin Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Staff Update MEETING DATE:December 10, 2025 AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Administration RECOMMENDATION:Discussion on the MPO staff update. STRATEGIC PLAN:1.3 Public Agencies Collaboration: Foster successful collaboration with other public agencies and build on these successes. BACKGROUND:Since the last meeting, MPO staff have engaged in the following key activities: Long Range Transportation Plan – The Existing Conditions Report is being finalized. The next phase will focus on projected conditions and modeling. Work is underway on the LRTP vision, goals, and objectives that will guide future project scoring. The project team met with the Community Advisory Panel (CAP) on November 5 and has met twice with TTAC to discuss desired outcomes and how the LRTP can support the valley’s long-term growth and mobility needs. A virtual public engagement opportunity is planned for December, with a more detailed LRTP update anticipated for TPCC in the first quarter of next year. Valley Center Spur – Staff has completed a draft of the report, which has undergone internal review. A few outstanding details are awaiting confirmation from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT). Staff anticipates completing the report in early 2026. Financial Administration – The MPO completed its first federal work program year and worked through reimbursement and pass-through processes with minimal issues. Conference Participation – MPO staff attended the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO) conference in early October and the Montana Association of Planners (MAP) conference in mid-October. These events provided valuable training and networking opportunities relevant to the MPO’s work. Statewide MPO Collaboration – The MPO participated in a quarterly meeting with the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and other MPOs across the state to share updates, exchange best practices, and learn from one another’s work. Statewide Safety Planning – MPO staff participated in the final 39 advisory committee meeting for the Community Highway Safety Plan, reviewing upcoming statewide safety targets and action areas with partner agencies. The resulting plan will establish the basis for statewide safety performance measures that the MPO will help support. UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None. ALTERNATIVES:As suggested by the committee. FISCAL EFFECTS:None. Report compiled on: November 20, 2025 40