The Bozeman Transportation Board received a detailed evaluation of the city's Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program on October 28, reviewing the first full year since the program was restructured to balance proactive city-initiated projects with community requests through a formal application process.
Engineer Danae Giunetti reported that the program received 20 applications in 2026, resulting in six new projects after screening for eligibility and merit. Three applications were rejected due to street classification—the program operates only on city-owned local streets, not collectors or arterials. An additional eight eligible requests were addressed through other city programs, such as stop sign installation or sidewalk improvements.
The evaluation showed promising results at several locations. A traffic circle at Yellowstone Avenue near Oak Springs Park achieved a nearly 50% reduction in vehicles exceeding 25 miles per hour in the 15 mph park zone following community outcry after a fatal collision. Speed data from West College Street between Grand and 8th showed a 2.6% decrease in speeding violations, suggesting a potential culture shift driven by combined enforcement and infrastructure improvements. The permanent installation at Olive and 6th, converting from temporary paint to a full traffic circle, demonstrated sustained speed reductions.
However, challenges emerged. West Olive and 4th reported a 600-vehicle-per-day volume increase, with rising speeds despite the treatment. The temporary project at College Street between Grand and 8th suffered repeated damage and was not durable enough to maintain effectiveness. A traffic circle on Marr between Cascade and Broadwater showed mixed results—northbound speeds decreased, but southbound speeds increased—which Giunetti theorized may relate to the neighborhood's decision not to install art and plantings.
The board learned that survey response rates remained low despite QR codes placed at project sites. Of the responses collected, 62% of pedestrians and cyclists reported feeling safer and supported permanence, while 75% of motorists said they did not feel safer, as expected.
Next steps include coordinating with project champions on evaluation data, determining feasibility of year-round interim installations, and establishing a clear policy for transitioning from temporary to permanent projects. Giunetti noted that some temporary installations have existed for six to seven years, creating uncertainty for neighborhoods.
The board also approved excusing board member Mike Veselik from the meeting and approved minutes from the September Transportation Advisory Board meeting unanimously. The board voted to hold its combined November-December makeup meeting on December 3rd, with the motion approved by voice vote.