Montana is a big place, and most people rely on cars to get around. In the past, it hasn’t been easy for people who prefer walking or biking, as there weren’t many sidewalks or bike lanes. However, things are changing. Cities like Missoula are adding more trails, and the state is investing in new bike lanes and sidewalks to make it safer and easier for people to walk or cycle. These efforts are helping connect communities and provide better options for getting around without a car.
- Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in rural regions where long distances and limited infrastructure pose significant barriers.
- Let’s explore Montana’s progress, the obstacles it faces, and what the future holds for making the state more pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly.
The Evolution of Montana’s Pedestrian and Bike Infrastructure
Montana’s pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure has seen significant advancements in recent years, reflecting a growing commitment to multimodal transportation. The Montana Department of Transportation developed the state’s first Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan, finalized in May 2019, to establish a consistent approach for integrating these modes into the transportation system. This plan emphasizes safety, accessibility, and the promotion of walking and biking as viable transportation options.
Urban centers like Missoula have been at the forefront of this evolution.
Missoula boasts an extensive trail system exceeding 22 miles, connecting downtown with surrounding neighborhoods, the University of Montana, and various parks.
Key components include the Riverfront trails along the Clark Fork River and the Milwaukee Trail, which follows a former railroad corridor.
These developments have transformed Missoula into a model for pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly urban planning.
Statewide, funding mechanisms have been established to support the maintenance and development of pedestrian and bicycle paths. In 2017, the Montana Legislature introduced a $5 opt-in fee for motor vehicle registrations, allocating 80% of the collected funds for path maintenance and 20% for education initiatives. As of February 2024, this program has accumulated a total of $158,740, averaging approximately $2,000 per month. These funds are instrumental in sustaining existing infrastructure and supporting educational programs that promote safe walking and biking practices.
Urban vs. Rural – Bridging the Accessibility Gap
Where infrastructure is lacking, cyclists are at greater risk of accidents, often requiring legal assistance from a bicycle accident attorney to navigate injury claims and liability issues.
| Aspect | Urban Areas (e.g., Missoula) | Rural Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure Development | Extensive networks of sidewalks, bike lanes, and shared-use paths. | Limited infrastructure due to funding and distance challenges. |
| Challenges | Managing high pedestrian and cyclist traffic, maintaining facilities. | Greater distances, lower population densities, limited funding. |
| Safety Concerns | Infrastructure reduces accidents but requires ongoing maintenance. | Cyclists face higher accident risks due to lack of infrastructure. |
| Legal Considerations | Fewer injury claims due to better infrastructure. | Increased need for bicycle accident attorneys to handle liability cases. |
| Government Support | Benefits from federal funding like the Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program. | Receives dedicated 25% TA Program funding for areas under 5,000 population. |
| Solutions & Innovations | Expansion of bike lanes and shared-use paths. | Exploring multi-use paths to connect key destinations. |
| Future Strategies | Ongoing maintenance and improvements in connectivity. | Collaboration among state agencies, local governments, and stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions. |
This structured format makes it easier to compare urban and rural differences while highlighting key points. Let me know if you need any modificati
Statewide Policies and Funding for Walkability and Cycling
Montana has implemented several statewide policies and funding mechanisms to enhance walkability and cycling infrastructure. The MDT developed the state’s inaugural Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan, finalized in May 2019, to establish a consistent approach for integrating pedestrian and bicycle modes into the transportation system. This plan emphasizes safety, accessibility, and the promotion of walking and biking as viable transportation options.
Funding for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure in Montana primarily comes from federal sources, including the Transportation Alternatives program. The TA program funds projects such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities, with a balanced distribution of funds: 25% allocated to areas with populations under 5,000 and another 25% to areas with populations over 5,000, ensuring that both rural and urban communities benefit.
The Future of Walkability in Montana
Montana is actively pursuing initiatives to enhance walkability and cycling infrastructure, aiming to create safer and more accessible environments for all residents. The state’s 2019 Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan outlines a 20-year strategy focusing on reducing fatalities, promoting safe travel, preserving infrastructure, improving mobility, and supporting walking and biking as essential transportation modes. This comprehensive approach reflects Montana’s commitment to integrating non-motorized transportation into its overall transportation system.
- In urban areas, cities like Billings are developing master plans to advance pedestrian and bicycle safety and convenience.
- The 2024 Billings Area Pedestrian & Bicycle Master Plan identifies needs and opportunities for infrastructure improvements.
- Aiming to create a more connected and user-friendly network for non-motorized users.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The League of American Bicyclists’ 2022 report card ranked Montana 42nd out of 50 states for bike friendliness, highlighting areas for improvement such as adopting safe passing laws and establishing a statewide Complete Streets policy. Addressing these gaps is crucial for Montana to realize its vision of a more walkable and bike-friendly future.
Conclusion
What will it take for Montana to become a truly walkable and bike-friendly state? While cities like Missoula and Billings have made significant progress, rural areas still face major challenges in accessibility and infrastructure development. Statewide policies, including the Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan and funding programs like the Transportation Alternatives Program, provide a foundation for future improvements.
However, with Montana ranking 42nd in bike-friendliness, there is still much work to be done. Stronger policies, better enforcement of safety laws, and continued investment in infrastructure will be essential to closing the urban-rural gap and making cycling and walking viable transportation options for all residents.