HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-14-26z Public Comment - H. Makoutz - Safer streets for pedestrians and cyclistsFrom:Heidi Makoutz
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists
Date:Tuesday, April 14, 2026 1:48:59 PM
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Dear City Commissioners,
I am the head coach of the Bozeman/Gallatin mountain bike teams (a part of the National Interscholastic Cycling
League). Our team has been at or above 180 student athletes a year for the last 5 years. Having that many kids and
families biking (and off screens) is a huge win for the health of our community.
In that time we have had 3 kids on our team hit by cars while riding to or from practice, and one struck while
following traffic laws on the way to work. As a mountain bike team, we run our sessions on trails, so to me it says a
lot that we have had this many instances, as we are not practicing on roads.
Our town must prioritize funding for a safer experience for riders and pedestrians. Sharing the road is something we
can promote and we know there are evidence based safety practices that we can utilize and employ. The safety on
the 4 lane roads especially, needs to be addressed with more urgency. So many lives are affected when one person is
injured or killed. Help is create a safer community experience. We know our town can do better with your help and
leadership.
Respectfully,
Heidi Makoutz
Bozeman resident of 18 years
NICA Mountain Bike team coach for 9 years