The Gallatin Valley MPO's Transportation Technical Advisory Committee met October 14 for its first comprehensive review of the regional Transportation Improvement Program and draft Long-Range Transportation Plan, marking a significant milestone for the newly formed MPO.
The committee unanimously approved the five-year TIP covering fiscal years 2027–2031, which programs $170.9 million in revenue for 24 road and bridge projects plus transit and program funding. The plan incorporates existing statewide projects while establishing the MPO's first independent TIP document. Major projects include Kagy Boulevard reconstruction in Bozeman at $42.5 million total and Belgrade Main Street reconstruction at $1.2 million, along with $1.6 million for transportation alternatives including pedestrian and bicycle projects. Transit operations account for $13.8 million over five years. The TIP must be adopted by December 26 to meet federal requirements, with the committee reconvening November 5 for a final recommendation vote before adoption by the Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee on December 16.
The committee also reviewed the draft Long-Range Transportation Plan, developed over two years with consultant input and community engagement. The plan establishes policy initiatives addressing Complete Streets, context-appropriate speeds, self-enforcing design near schools, and Open Streets events. Committee members suggested additional outreach strategies, including presentations to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. In related discussion, John Howe raised concerns about a $4.5 million state matching fund shortfall for federal transportation dollars, with Brandon Jones confirming that local governments have provided matching funds on individual projects, citing Belgrade's $1 million contribution to a recent urban project.