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Home My WebLink About10-28 Res 4484.pdf Commission Memorandum REPORT TO: Honorable Mayor and City Commission FROM: Mitch Overton, Director of Parks and Recreation Chris Kukulski, City Manager SUBJECT: Resolution 4484 authorizes the Allocation of $600,000 from Trails, Open Space and Park Bond Funds for the Construction of a Pathway to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain and Authorizes the City Manager to enter into a Match Agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Land Access Program MEETING DATE: October 28, 2013 AGENDA ITEM TYPE: Action RECOMMENDATION: The Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOP) Committee and city staff recommend that the Bozeman City Commission adopt Resolution 4484 providing funding from the TOP Bond Fund for the Bicycle & Pedestrian Pathway to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain Project and authorize the City Manager to enter into a Match Agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Lands Access Program. SUGGESTED MOTION: I hereby move to adopt Resolution 4484 which would provide funding of up to $600,000, for the Bicycle & Pedestrian Pathway to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain Project and to authorize the City Manager to enter into a Match Agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Lands Access Program. BACKGROUND: On July 16, 2012 the city commission passed Resolution 4386 which submitted to the qualified electors of the city of Bozeman, the question of issuing general obligation bonds in the amount of up to fifteen million and no/100 dollars ($15,000,000.00). The use of said bond funds were noted to be for the purpose of “on open space lands, designing, constructing or equipping trails, parks and natural areas or multi-use recreational fields and facilities, or for the use in the preservation or enhancement of water quality, and paying the costs of acquiring rights to or interests in or improving open-space lands in or near the city…”. On November 6, 2012 the qualified electors approved the above question of issuing general obligation bonds for the purposes stated. Furthermore, within Resolution 4386 Section 1.02 Commission Findings, subsection L states the Commission “may designate an advisory board or committee to assist in the establishment of such guidelines and to review and make recommendations to the Commission on proposals for use of funds”. 102 The Bozeman City Commission created the Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOP) Committee on March 18, 2013 with the adoption of Ordinance 1857 and appointed the TOP on April 15, 2013. On September 9, 2013 the City Commission approved Resolution 4471 creating the Application Procedure and Evaluation Criteria. The GVLT submitted an application to the TOP Committee for a 2.1 mile paved trail from Story Mill Road to the trailheads at Drinking Horse Mountain and the “M” on September 19, 2013. The TOP Committee reviewed the application and heard testimony over two subsequent meetings (September 26, 2013 and October 10, 2013) and found the project consistent with the ballot language from the November 6, 2012 TOP Bond, the application thorough, the project well justified and that the project significantly leveraged TOP Bond Funds. The TOP Committee passed the Bicycle & Pedestrian Pathway to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain proposal through the Rough Cut Matrix with 5 or more yeses by each of the four members present to vote and the Community Benefits Matrix and Prevailing Characteristics Matrix (Trails) each scored above 60% by the votes of the four members present. NEXT STEPS: Once approved by City Commission the City Manager will enter into a Match Agreement with the Federal Lands Access Program and a tapered Match requirement will be issued to the City as Follows: $45,000 for Planning and Engineering, Invoiced January 1, 2014 $35,000 for Planning and Engineering, Invoiced January 1, 2015 $447,406 for Construction and Construction Management, Invoiced September 1, 2015 ALTERNATIVES: As directed by City Commission FISCAL EFFECTS: The Trails, Open Space and Parks Bond Fund would be diminished by $527,406, not to exceed $600,000. Furthermore, once the Pathway to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain is complete it will require that addition resources be allocated toward the maintenance and upkeep of the 2.1 mile paved trail and associated amenities. Attachments: Resolution 4484 GVLT Application Rough Cut Matrix Scoring Prevailing Characteristics Matrix: Trails Scoring Community Benefit Matrix Scoring FLAP Match Agreement 103 104 105 106 107 108 TOP - COMMUNITY BENEFIT MATRIX - SCORING -"M" Trail #1 Mmbr #2 Mmbr #3 Mmbr #4 Mmbr #5 Mmbr Total Points Total Possible Points Percentage Variety 4 5 absent 3 5 17 20 85.00% Distribution 4 5 4 5 18 20 90.00% Enhancement 5 5 5 5 20 20 100.00% Balance 5 5 4 5 19 20 100.00% Leverage 5 5 5 5 20 20 100.00% Connections 5 5 4 5 19 20 95.00% Total Points 28 30 0 25 30 113 120 94.17% 110 TOP - ROUGH CUT MATRIX: SCORING - "M" Trail Criterion #1 Mmbr #2 Mmbr #3 Mmbr #4 Mmbr #5 Mmbr Total Yeses Ballot Language 1 absent 1 1 1 4 Identified in PROST 1 1 1 1 4 Aligns with Bozeman Community Plan 1 1 1 1 4 Balances types of Parks, Trails & Open Space 1 1 1 1 4 Maintenance Requirements or Needs Feasible 1 1 1 1 4 Long-Term Investment for City 1 1 1 1 4 Feasible Partnership Opportunity 1 1 1 1 4 Opportunity to Leverage Bond Funds 1 1 1 1 4 Total Yeses 8 0 8 8 8 32 *One point for each yes vote 111 TOP - PREVAILING CHARACTERISTICS MATRIX: TRAILS - SCORING -"M" Trail Criterion #1 Mmbr #2 Mmbr #3 Mmbr #4 Mmbr #5 Mmbr Total Points Total Possible Points PROST Plan or Judged Beneficial 25 25 Absent 25 25 100 100 Link Destinations or Provide Access 25 25 25 25 100 100 Recreational/Transportation Complement 20 20 20 20 80 80 Aesthetic Value 15 15 12 15 57 60 Minimal Negative Impacts 12 15 12 15 54 60 Total Points 97 100 0 94 100 391 400 112 Percentage 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 95.00% 90.00% 97.75% 113 Federal Lands Access Program Match Agreement US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA 610 E. Fifth Street Vancouver, WA 98661 State:Montana Project Number/Name:MT DOT T 86(1), Bozeman to Bridger Mountains Trail Parties to this Agreement: U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and Purpose of Agreement: City of Bozeman The purpose of this agreement is to document the intent of City of Bozeman to meet its match requirement for the subject project as authorized under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP‐21), Title 23 U.S.C 120(b). The purpose of this project is to decrease the probability and severity of pedestrian‐bicycle/Vehicle crashes on MT 86 from Story Mill Road (MP ) to the "M" and Drinking Hourse Moutain trail heads. This agreement does not commit the parties to complete the project, but, rather sets forth the respective responsibilities as the project proceeds. Any subsequent decisions to complete final design and to construct the project will depend on authorizing legislation, NEPA analysis, availability of appropriations, and matching funds at the time of obligation. The authority for FHWA to enter into this agreement is under Title 23 U.S.C. Section 204. Funding: The Federal Lands Access Program of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP‐21) authorizes FHWA to provide funding for specific projects. The Program Decision Committee (PDC), consisting of FHWA, the State of Montana, and an organization representing the local agencies of the state, is designated to jointly decide upon projects funded in the state. The PDC has decided to provide funding for the development of this project and to program the project for construction in FY 2015 under the Montana State Federal Lands Access Program. The matching requirement under MAP‐21 will be met by City of Bozeman and other agencies that have committed to the project in subsequent agreements. The forms of match may be those consistent with the 'Federal‐Aid Guidance Non‐ Federal Matching Requirements' (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/policy/fedaid_guidance_nfmr.htm) as shown in the Funding Plan. In the state of Montana, the match rate is 13.42% of the total project cost. City of Bozeman will be responsible for meeting their match requirement for their share of costs incurred on the project after October 1, 2012; which is the date for implementation of MAP‐21. Budget: The following documents the expected costs of this project and the Match required: Planning Preliminary Engineering $570,000 Construction $2,800,000 Construction Engineering $280,000 Contingency ‐ Contract Mods $280,000 Item Amount Total Estimated Cost:$3,930,000 Match Rate Required (23 USC 120):13.42% Value of Match Required*:$527,406 * Calculated by multiplying the Total Estimated Cost that is subject to match requirements by the percentage match required. Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA Page 1114 Federal Lands Access Program Match Agreement US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA 610 E. Fifth Street Vancouver, WA 98661 The following agencies have agreed to contribute the amounts shown which will reduce the federal share by the same amount. The Funding Plan is as follows (Includes all agencies that are cooperating in the project): All Access Program expenditures associated with this project after October 1, 2012 will need to be matched by a Non‐ Federal source, by other Federal funds other than those made available under Titles 23 and 49 of the United States Code, or by funds made available under 23 U.S.C. 202 and 203. Estimated costs are based on the best budgeting information known at this time. The final Match will be determined based on actual expenditures at the conclusion of project work. Matching funds in FHWA receipt may need to be supplemented, or returned, once actual expenditures are determined. As noted under Modifications, if costs increase over the amount within this agreement, the PDC will consult with the signing agency before granting approval. Agency Contributions: Federal Highway Contributions: Records: Costs and third party in‐kind contributions counting towards satisfying a cost sharing or matching requirement must be verifiable from the records of grantees and subgrantee or cost‐type contractors. These records must show how the value placed on third party in‐kind contributions was derived. To the extent feasible, volunteer services will be supported by the same methods that the organization uses to support the allocability of regular personnel costs. 49 CFR 18.24(b)(6) Valuation of real property, services, materials, equipment, and use of facilities will be established at fair market value (FMV), as determined by applicable Federal grant administration regulations [49 CFR 18 or 19] and Federal cost principles. City of Bozeman is ONLY responsible for their respective match as shown in the table above. Agency Form ValuePhase Due CommentReceived Bozeman City Cash $45,000PE1/1/2014 Annual Match for PE Bozeman City Cash $35,000PE1/1/2015 Annual Match for PE Bozeman City Cash $447,406CN9/1/2015 Match for CN, CM, CE Total:$527,406 Total W/O Toll Credits:$527,406 Fund FYPhase Amount Comment G200 2014PE $300,000 G200 2015PE $190,000 G200 2015CN $2,352,594 G200 2015CM $280,000 G200 2016CE $280,000 Total:$3,402,594 Page 2115 Federal Lands Access Program Match Agreement US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA 610 E. Fifth Street Vancouver, WA 98661 Federal Lands Access Program funds are administered by FHWA and are subject to annual appropriations from Congress. This document does not commit FHWA to advance the project or provide funds for the project, but provides required matching if FHWA expends funds to advance the project. Modification: This agreement may be updated periodically by mutual written consent of all parties. If project costs increase and are approved by the PDC, this funding agreement will be modified by mutual consent of all parties. Page 3116 Federal Lands Access Program Match Agreement US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA 610 E. Fifth Street Vancouver, WA 98661 Delivery Agency and Fund Transfers: Funds Transaction Information: FHWA: Tom Erkert, Federal Lands Access Program Manager Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA 610 E. Fifth Street Please contact the following individuals to set up the funds transaction: (360) 619‐7791 Tom.Erkert@dot.gov City of Bozeman , Vancouver, WA 98661 121 N. Rouse Ave. Bozeman, MT Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA has been selected to deliver this project. Upon execution of this agreement, FHWA will forward payment requests to the Enterprise Servicing Center (ESC) at Oklahoma City, which will send invoices to City of Bozeman in accordance with the payment schedule set forth in the Funding Plan. After receiving the invoice, City of Bozeman can transmit the funds either through Pay.Gov (https://pay.gov/paygov/) or by mailing a check to ESC. The preferred method is to use Pay.Gov. This project is authorized to use a Tapered Match. Under this approach, the non‐Federal match is imposed over the entire project rather than individual progress payments. Timing of all fund transfers are specified in the Funding Plan. Tapered Match is authorized because it will result in an earlier completion date. Page 4117 Federal Lands Access Program Match Agreement US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA 610 E. Fifth Street Vancouver, WA 98661 This Agreement shall be effective as of the date of the last signature: City of Bozeman Approved By: Mitch Overton, Parks and Recreation Director Date Page 5118 Federal Lands Access Program Match Agreement US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA 610 E. Fifth Street Vancouver, WA 98661 U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Highway Division, FHWA Approved By: Dan Donovan, Director of Program Administration Date Page 6119 Bicycle & Pedestrian Pathway to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain Application for City of Bozeman TOP Funding September 18, 2013 Submitted by: PO Box 7021, Bozeman, MT 59771 406-587-8404 www.gvlt.org 120 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 2 1. Please give a brief description of your project that includes location, budget, amount requested and amount contributed from other sources. Project Goals & Location. The proposed project will create a 2.1 mile, separated bicycle-pedestrian pathway along Montana Highway 86 (Bridger Road) from Story Mill Road to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain trailheads (see enclosed maps), which access the Bridger Mountain foothills. Thanks to the efforts of a diverse partnership, this project was recently awarded funding from the Federal Land Access Program and we have a unique opportunity to significantly leverage TOP Bond funding. The primary goals of the project are to: • Improve public safety and provide a non-motorized transportation alternative by creating a continuous non-motorized path that is separated from high-speed motor- vehicle traffic. Although just 4 miles from Main Street, most people drive to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain trailheads due to lack of a viable non-motorized route, as the road has no sidewalk and very constricted shoulders. In addition, Highway 86 is a popular road biking route, and removing bicycles from motorized traffic for this stretch of highway will greatly enhance safety in this transportation corridor. • Link highly-used public trails and recreational destinations, filling a gap in the existing Main Street to the Mountains trail system by connecting it with two of the most heavily-used trailheads in our region, which provide access to thousands of acres of Gallatin National Forest land in the Bridger Mountain foothills. The construction of this segment of trail will essentially complete the vision of Main Street to the Mountains for the north part of Bozeman and fulfill explicit goals in several guiding documents, including Bozeman’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails plan (PROST, 2007) and the Bozeman Community Plan (2009). • Create variety and balance in our trail system with the addition of a new shared-use path. Bozeman currently has very few shared-use asphalt paths (just ~12 miles out of the more than 67 miles of trails), and this pathway will be unique because it will connect the urban core of Bozeman to the vast public lands in the Bridger Mountains. It will also provide new recreation and transportation opportunities for the north side of Bozeman, which is generally underserved by our existing network of trails and parks. Project Need. Montana Highway 86 (Bridger Road) is the primary road connecting Bozeman to the Bridger Mountains in the Gallatin National Forest, just 4.1 miles north of Main Street. The “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain trailheads are located on US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) lands, on opposite sides of Highway 86, just 2.1 miles from Bozeman’s Main Street to the Mountains trail system. Main Street to the Mountains includes over 67 miles of greenway trails linking parks and neighborhoods throughout the community. This existing trail system crosses Highway 86 at Story Mill Road intersection, which is the starting point of the pathway in this application. The pathway would then continue along Highway 86, roughly parallel to the road, until it reaches the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain trailheads. 121 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 3 The “M” trailhead, on the north side of Highway 86 provides great day- hikes and access to dozens of miles of Gallatin National forest trails in the Bridger Mountains and thousands of acres of public land. It is the southernmost trailhead in the Bridger Mountains and for many years has been Bozeman area’s most heavily-used trailhead with thousands of visits every week by both local residents and tourists. The parking lot at the “M” frequently overflows onto the shoulders of the road even though Gallatin National Forest significantly improved and expanded it several years ago. The trailhead on the south side of Highway 86 opened in 2008 providing access to the new 2-mile Drinking Horse Mountain trail above the FWS Fish Technology Center. This scenic hike immediately attracted hundreds of users per week and use has steadily increased over the last four years. Highway 86 is a curving road that has a steady flow of high-speed traffic. With no sidewalks, a minimal shoulder and steep embankments, the road does not provide a safe bicycle-pedestrian route from town, although it is just 4.1 miles from Main Street. Highway 86 is a popular road-biking route and sees considerable mountain bike traffic accessing the “M” and other popular trails. A recent guardrail project has nearly entirely constricted the shoulders and caused even more safety concerns for cyclists on this road. Compounding the problem is that the popularity of the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain trails – and the lack of safe non-motorized ways to access the trails – results in frequently overflowing parking lots. Overflow vehicles parked along Highway 86 cause safety issues for motorists, bicyclist, pedestrians and wildlife. Of particular concern is the fact that the trailhead driveways are offset on opposite sides of the highway, located adjacent to a curve and have no safe crossing between them for the many pedestrians who cross in spite of the high speed traffic. A paved bicycle-pedestrian trail and a safe crossing between the trailheads has great potential for addressing these significant safety issues. The proposed pathway is also in a quadrant of our community that is experiencing rapid growth and relatively high-density development. The north side of Bozeman has historically been lacking in parks and trails, and this project would help to balance trail opportunities for neighborhoods in north Bozeman. In addition, this trail will provide variety to the trail experiences in the Main Street to the Mountains trail system. There are only a few paved, shared-use paths in Bozeman, and this one would be unique by providing access to thousands of acres of public lands. Project Budget. Bozeman has a unique, timely opportunity to fulfill the goals of this project because it was recently approved for funding through the Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP), a program through the Western Federal Lands Highway Division. The FLAP program requires just 13.42% local match, highly leveraging taxpayer dollars for an incredible long-term result. The entire project is estimated to cost approximately $3.9 million, including design, engineering, right-of-way acquisition, and construction (see detailed budget below). We have secured $3.4 million in funding from FLAP and are currently requesting $527,406 from the TOP Program, equating to roughly 13.3% of the total project costs. The funding commitment from FLAP also ensures that the project will be managed by the Western Federal Lands Highway Division, which actively administers the design and construction of federal forest highway system roads and parkways. They will manage the engineering and construction of the pathway while utilizing the local expertise and on-the-ground support from all project partners. This will relieve City staff from adding this project to their workload, while still incorporating local 122 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 4 input. Once local match is secure, FLAP project managers anticipate beginning preliminary engineering in 2014 and construction in 2015. On a project of this scope, it is possible that final project costs will vary from original estimates. If project costs are higher than budgeted here, FLAP will request additional local match, at a rate of 13.42%. If that should occur, we will submit a new application to the TOP program for additional funding. Project Expenses Component Detail Approx. Cost Preliminary Engineering Work will be coordinated and overseen by WFLHD. Some preliminary design work has been completed and additional work may be contributed in-kind by the US Forest Service. $570,000 Construction Work will be coordinated and overseen by WFLHD. The completed project is proposed to include: • Paved pathway for approximately 2.1 miles • Crossing over Bridger Creek and two smaller waterways, including a bridge or boardwalk over small wetland area. • Pedestrian underpass between Drinking Horse Mountain and the “M” trailheads • Pedestrian crossing on Highway 86 near Story Mill Road, Creekwood Subdivision, or Headlands Subdivision (exact location TBD with final engineering) $2,800,000 Construction Engineering Overseen by WFLHD $280,000 Contingency Contract contingencies, as needed. $280,000 Additional safety considerations As needed, supported by Collin’s Coalition $20,000 Trail amenities & design Support Professional staff time supporting trail design and easement work, plus installation of amenities such as signage, benches, etc., supported by GVLT $15,000 TOTAL $3,965,000 Funding & Match Also see information under question 5 about in-kind support from partners. Source Detail Amount Proportion of total project cost Federal Land Access Program Provided from the Western Federal Lands Highway Division. GVLT, WTI, City of Bozeman, and Gallatin National Forest applied for funding in February 2013 and received commitment in July 2013. Program requires at least 13.7% local match. $3,402,594 85.8 % Collin’s Coalition Match committed to improve safety issues $20,000 0.5% GVLT Match committed for staff time and installation of trail amenities and infrastructure $15,000 0.4% City of Bozeman TOP Bond request Requested $527,406 13.3 % TOTAL $3,965,000 100% 123 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 5 2. Briefly describe how the project creates or enhances one or more of the following: a. Open Space / Natural Areas b. Parks c. Trails d. Water Quality e. Multi-Use Recreational Fields Trails. This project creates a new 2.1-mile trail, which links existing trails in the Main Street to the Mountains trail system, which is now over 67 miles long, with existing trails in the Gallatin National Forest and US Fish and Wildlife Service lands, starting at the trailheads to the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain. It will compliment and connect existing transportation networks and expand non- motorized transportation options, as well as provide variety and balance in the current trail network by offering a different type of trail experience (a paved path to federal lands) and by expanding trail services to an underserved part of town. A trail between Bozeman and the “M” was directly referenced in the 2012 TOP Bond ballot language: “for the purposes of paying the costs of designing, constructing or equipping on open-space lands trails, parks and natural areas…such as lands for trails in and around the Bridger Mountain foothills”) [emphasis added]. This pathway is also supported by the following planning documents:  Bozeman Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open Space (PROST) Plan (2007). A shared-use path from Bozeman to the “M” is identified as a high priority (Trail Plan Map) and aligns with recommendations for trail acquisitions by connecting federal lands (Recommendation 10.7.1), and expands the existing trail system in a logical, convenient and safe manner (Recommendation 10.7.3).  Bozeman Community Plan (2009). The Pathway to the “M” is supported by this plan because it helps to connect the community using trails (Objective R-1.5), improves the safety of trail facilities (Objective R-1.9), encourages transportation options that reduce consumption and increase social interaction (Goal T-3), and helps to integrate a system of recreational and transportation pathways (Goal T-4).  Greater Bozeman Area Transportation Plan (2007 Update). A shared use path to the “M” is identified as a high priority project to connect the community to this popular trailhead.  Gallatin County Trails Report and Plan (2001). A trail between Bozeman and the “M” Trailhead was recommended as a high priority trail in this plan.  Gallatin County Interconnect Trails Plan (in draft). A trail from the Gallatin County Fairgrounds to the “M” was recommended as a high priority.  Gallatin National Forest Travel Management Plan Record of Decision (2006). One of the Forest Supervisor’s objectives for the “M” trailhead area (Objective 1-3) is to coordinate with Gallatin County and the City of Bozeman on “Main Street to Mountains” trails projects to provide connectors to these National Forest system trails (page 65). 124 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 6 Open Space / Natural Areas. In addition, the project will enhance open space and natural areas by providing a new recreational corridor with vistas of Bozeman, the Gallatin Valley, and the Bridger Mountains. It will be suitable for low-intensity recreation and the natural enjoyment of the surrounding area, including a crossing over Bridger Creek. It will also encourage access to tens of thousands of acres of public land in the Bridger Mountains, which is some of the closest and most accessible natural areas and open space to Bozeman. The proposed pathway and Highway 86 are also in the middle of a known, critical wildlife movement corridor, connecting the Bridger Mountains to the north, through the Story Hills and into the Gallatin Range to the south, which connects all the way to Yellowstone National Park. Vehicle/wildlife collisions are not uncommon on Highway 86. The potential pedestrian underpass could double as a wildlife underpass, potentially helping to protect wildlife in this important corridor. 3. Has the exact site been identified? If so, please detail here. The exact location of the pathway is yet to be determined and will be formalized by highway and trail engineers with the Western Federal Lands Highway Division. The pathway will roughly parallel Highway 86 beginning at Story Mill Road, at existing Main Street to the Mountains trails (Story Mill and East Gallatin Recreation Area trails). The new pathway will probably be on the south side of Highway 86, potentially crossing to the north side near or east of the Creekwood subdivision. Included in the proposal is a bicycle/pedestrian underpass at the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain trailheads to facilitate a safe crossing of the Highway. Whether the pathway will require the purchase of additional rights-of-way or easements from adjacent private landowners is yet to be determined. The entire pathway could be constructed in existing Highway 86 right-of-way, but in places, constructing the trail in expanded easements/rights- of-way would probably provide a better trail user experience. The trail will be constructed with minimal impacts to the natural environment and with strong considerations for wildlife habitat and movement corridors. 4. Briefly explain how the project creates long term value for the residents of Bozeman. The public benefit of this pathway cannot be overstated, and it provides long-term value to the residents of Bozeman by achieving the following goals: • Resolve safety issues by providing separated facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians, moving them off of the busy highway that has a narrow shoulder and constricting guardrails. • Provide enhanced recreational opportunities to two of the region’s most popular trailheads in the fastest growing county in Montana. • Provide new options for non-motorized transportation, helping to reduce traffic and congestion at popular public land access sites. • Provide non-motorized access to thousands of acres of Gallatin National Forest Lands in the Bridger Mountains. • Help connect habitat in an important wildlife corridor and reduce wildlife/vehicle collisions by creating a new underpass. • Connect gaps in our existing Main Street to the Mountains community trail system, which helps to link downtown Bozeman to the surrounding public lands. 125 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 7 • Help meet priority goals set in regional transportation plans, including Bozeman’s Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open Space Plan; the Bozeman Community Plan; the Greater Bozeman Transportation Plan; and the Gallatin County Trails Plan. 5. Please list all groups/organizations involved or contributing to this project and what their short and long term commitments will be. Partners involved in this project include the following: • City of Bozeman: Along with the Gallatin National Forest, the City of Bozeman successfully submitted an application to the FLAP program for this project. As a part of that process, the City of Bozeman has committed to owning and maintaining the trail. • Collin’s Coalition. With a focus on improving safety for bicycle and pedestrian trails, Collin’s Coalition is committed to assisting with this project and has pledged $20,000 in support. • Gallatin National Forest: Along with the City of Bozeman, the Gallatin National Forest successfully submitted an application to the FLAP program for this project. In the near term, Gallatin National Forest will assist with trail design and engineering. They have some funding from the Sarbanes Transit in Parks program that may assist with engineering and design. Gallatin National Forest manages and maintains the “M” trailhead and will collaborate with the City of Bozeman in the long-term on maintenance where the new pathway intersects the trailhead. • Gallatin Valley Land Trust: In the near-term, GVLT will provide technical assistance for trail layout and design and act as a liaison with landowners for discussions about possible easement and right-of-way acquisitions. GVLT is also committed to helping make the pathway infrastructure consistent and compatible with the remainder of the Main Street to the Mountains trail system with the installation of benches, trail totems, information kiosks, and other infrastructure as needed/possible. GVLT pledges $15,000 in support for these efforts. In the long-term, GVLT will also utilize its strong volunteer base and professional staff to assist the City of Bozeman with ongoing maintenance and management of the trail system. With over 20 years of experience building and maintaining trails, negotiating easements, and coordinating volunteers, GVLT is committed to the success of this project as it helps achieve their mission to create trails that connect our communities. • Montana Department of Transportation: In the near term, MDT will provide input on the trail design and layout, especially as it impacts the existing Highway 86 right-of-way. • Western Transportation Institute: As a leading research organization on rural transportation issues, WTI will continue to look for opportunities to leverage funds that will support the pathway to the “M” and connect to other bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in the area. In addition, the project enjoys the support of the following user-groups and advocacy organizations: • Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory Board • Bridger Ski Foundation • Gallatin County Commissioners 126 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 8 • Gallatin Valley Bicycle Club • Montana Outdoor Science School • Safe Routes to School • Trust for Public Land • US Fish & Wildlife Service • Wind Drinkers 6. Please describe the anticipated maintenance requirements for the site and who will be responsible for the maintenance. The City of Bozeman has expressed a commitment to owning and maintaining the pathway. Annual maintenance needs will include mowing and brushing, sweeping, and oiling. Periodic maintenance to repair drainage issues and to patch cracks will be necessary. Snow removal on the trail may be desirable, but the path may not hold snow for long due to its southern and western exposure. American Trails estimates the annual maintenance costs of properly constructed asphalt paths to be between $1,200 and $2,500 per mile per year. The Gallatin Valley Land Trust is committed to providing maintenance support. Using volunteers, GVLT can assist with brushing the trail and installation and upkeep of infrastructure such as signage and benches. 7. Are you aware of any mitigation needs on any part of a proposed property? If so, please explain. The proposed project would cross one wetland area utilizing a bridge or boardwalk. Unique mitigation would not be required. 8. Please attach any supporting documents, maps, pictures, etc…that may be useful in the initial evaluation of your proposal and provide ten (10) copies of your completed application and documents to: TOP Programs Manager 415 N. Bozeman Ave. Bozeman, MT 59715 127 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 9 Photographs Spillover parking lines Bridger Drive (Highway 86) during a particularly busy day at the “M” and Drinking Horse Mountain trailheads, as viewed from Drinking Horse Mountain. The proposed pathway would provide a non- motorized way to access the trailheads, reducing motor vehicle traffic and parking needs. A deer, struck by a vehicle, with the “M” in the background. A pathway could reduce vehicle/wildlife collisions by reducing traffic and a bicycle/pedestrian underpass could assist with wildlife crossings on the busy highway. 128 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 10 Highway 86 looking east at the narrowest point, with a guardrail completely constricting the shoulder on the right, making walking or bicycling on the busy highway extremely dangerous. Drinking Horse Mountain and the “M” trailheads are approximately ¼ mile to the east. Highway 86 looking west, approximately ¼ mile from the Drinking Horse Mountain and “M” Trailheads. The narrow road is further constricted by the new guardrail on the south (uphill traffic) side of the road. 129 TOP Funding Application: Pathway to the M Page 11 The “M” is one of the most heavily used trailheads in the Gallatin National Forest, and currently there is no safe non-motorized route to this important public lands access point. View from the “M” trail looking west down Highway 86. The pathway would provide unique access from existing trails and downtown Bozeman to some of the most heavily used and accessible public lands in the Gallatin National Forest. The trail will add variety and balance to our trail network, distribute use in a part of town that is underserved, and make exceptional connections with our current network, essentially completing the Main Street to the Mountains vision for the north part of Bozeman. 130 BRIDGER CANYON (HWY 86)INTERSTATE 90 US HIGHWAY 191INTERSTATE 90 kap GVLT 2013.01.31 ´ 0 2.5 51.25 Miles Location of Proposed Project Roads Existing TrailsPublic Lands City of Bozeman MT DNRC US Fish and Wildlife Service US Forest Service Bri dger Mountai nsBri dger Mountai nsG a l l a t i n R a n g eGallatin R a n g e City of Bozeman Proposed Project Location in Montana 131 the "M" DrinkingHorse Mtn Story Mill SpurEast GallatinRec. Area 89:w 89:w Headlands Subdivision CreekwoodSubdivisionMilepost 2 Milepost 4 Bozeman LBIG GULCHROUSEBRIDGERSTORY MI L L GRIFFIN INTERSTATE 90OAK DRIVEWAYCEDAR BOHART HILLSIDE IDABOYLAN TAMARACK FRONT M CIL H A T T A N BLACKPEACHTRACY FIS H H A T C H E R Y HEADLANDS GOLDWALLACEPLUMBOND A C C E S S BIRDIEPEARMANLEYAUGUSTAEVERGREENMONTANA ASPENINDUSTRIAL CHURCHBRYANT SIMMONSPINNACLE STAR ST ANDREWS ALLEYBIRCH JUNIPEREDGERLEY T U R N B E R R Y CADDIE INTERSTATE 90 ALLEYBO YLAN DRIVEWAYDRIVEWAY DRIVEWAYDRIVEWAYALLEYOAK ALLEYALLEYD R IV E W A Y ALLEYALLEY DRIVEWAYDRIVEWAYDRIVEWAYDRIVEWAYDRIVEWAYDRIVEWAY DRIVEWAYLROUSEBRIDGER INTERSTATE 90 OAK GRIFFIN BIG GULCH kap GVLT 2013.01.31 ´ 0 0.25 0.50.125 Miles Proposed Bike/Ped Path from Bozeman to the Bridger Mountains Proposed Project Existing Trails (Main Street to the Mountains) RoadsPublic Lands US Fish and Wildlife Service US Forest Service City of Bozeman Parkland Aerial photo from 2011 132