HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-11-26 Public Comment - P. Thomas - Please make smart investments in safer streetsFrom:Thomas, Patrick
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Please make smart investments in safer streets
Date:Saturday, April 11, 2026 11:41:50 AM
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Dear City Commissioners,
In advance of the City Commission's upcoming road safety work session on April 14, I
want to urge the Commission to do everything possible to make Bozeman's streets safer
for cyclists and pedestrians and invest now instead of procrastinating and wasting time
and money with half-hearted improvements.
I often run with my dog exactly where Leslie Brown was killed in February. That could
have easily been me, and I hope many others are inspired to do their part to ensure this
type of tragedy does not happen again. I bike to work at MSU when I can, even though I
am sure this is the greatest threat to my life, at least until the city makes smarter
investments in cycling infrastructure. Investing in protected bike lanes will encourage
people to go downtown more often, which will increase economic activity. Having a
downtown with less traffic and pollution will make downtown Bozeman a much safer
and more desirable place, which is good for everyone. Pedestrian/bike tunnels at key
crossings (how about 19th and Main please?) would be a good start and should have
been implemented long ago. Widening busy streets to accommodate more vehicles
should not be the only priority, unless the long-term plan is to ensure that Bozeman
permanently turns into Los Angeles. Investing in cycling infrastructure will keep cars off
the road and help bring Bozeman's soul back to a time when everything was less hectic
and crowded.
I would be more than happy to pay for a safety levy if it improves safety and quality of life
for all of us, and I am sure that many other Bozeman residents feel strongly the same
way.
Thank you for seriously considering this issue,
Patrick Thomas
517 N 22nd Ave, Bozeman, 59718
406-804-2722
Patrick Thomas, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Researcher
Center for Biofilm Engineering
Montana State University
Office: Barnard Hall 303
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