The Billings-Yellowstone County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is currently updating the Billings Area Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan (formerly the Billings Area Bikeway and Trails Master Plan) from 2017. During the initial phase of the 2024 Billings Area Pedestrian & Bicycle Master Plan public outreach, the project team identified needs and opportunities for advancing safety and convenience for people walking, bicycling, and rolling in the Billings area. The project team has analyzed current trends, engaged with the public and stakeholders, taken an inventory of existing infrastructure and initiatives, and has made preliminary recommendations for implementing projects over the next few years. A proposed network has been developed and is ready for public feedback.
On July 10, 2024, between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. in Veterans Park located at 2609 13th St. W, the project team will host a pop-up protected bike lane demonstration. The public is invited to experience what one type of high-comfort bike facility feels like, learn about the preliminary Master Plan report, and provide feedback on the proposed network. This pop-up protected bike lane will be left out for approximately one week.
The Billings Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan aims to create a well-connected network of bikeways and trails for people of all ages and abilities. Recognizing that many people are uncomfortable riding bikes near motor vehicle traffic, the plan focuses on building "high-comfort" facilities. These facilities are designed to minimize the speed, frequency, or proximity of passing motor vehicles. On quieter streets, this may involve measures to keep vehicle speeds and volumes low. On busier streets, physical barriers may be used to ensure safety and comfort.
The plan categorizes projects into two types: 1) high-comfort and 2) supplemental. High-comfort facilities offer greater protection from traffic, while supplemental facilities are designed to simply make necessary connections, even if they don't provide the same level of protection.
For those who are unable to attend the pop-up demonstration, public input can be provided on the proposed network at billingsbikepedplan.com between now and July 28, 2024. Billings-area residents are invited and encouraged to share their feedback about the proposed walking, biking, and rolling network via the interactive web map. The interactive web map allows participants to map potential connections and identify specific areas of concern and opportunity. Participants can see comments that other community members have noted.
Public Participation Link: billingsbikepedplan.com
The public input will be used to cross-check the proposed network, ensuring the project team understands the community’s priorities. The Plan Update is expected to be completed in Fall 2024.