BOZEMAN — HRDC is delighted to announce that it has been selected as the first ever Montana recipient of a special grant from the U.S. Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

This grant is part of the Areas of Persistent Poverty (AoPP) program and aims to improve public transportation options in areas experiencing long-term economic distress. HRDC's inclusion among the 47 agencies nationwide receiving this grant is a testament to their commitment to bettering the lives of the local community.

With the support of the AoPP program, HRDC and the Montana Department of Transportation will work to enhance Streamline transit service in the City of Bozeman. "In Bozeman, there are multiple areas that are defined as Areas of Persistent Poverty. Community members in these low-income areas often face challenges in accessing affordable and reliable transportation," said Sunshine Ross, HRDC’s Transportation Director. "This grant presents a significant opportunity for us to address these disparities and provide better transit solutions to those who need it the most."

HRDC will use the $451,500 in awarded funds to develop a long-term financing plan for Streamline and to conduct a comprehensive route planning analysis. The route planning analysis will integrate climate change, racial equity, and environmental justice considerations into the design of future public transit routes in Bozeman. HRDC’s goal is to create a more sustainable and inclusive transit system, offering convenient access to essential resources, employment opportunities, education, healthcare, and public services.

"We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Biden-Harris Administration for their support in realizing our vision for a more accessible and efficient transit system," added Heather Grenier, HRDC’s CEO. "This grant will enable us to strengthen the community by forging better connections and enhancing the overall quality of life for our residents."

HRDC is eager to embark on this transformative journey, collaborating closely with community members and stakeholders to ensure that the planned improvements accurately reflect the needs and aspirations of Bozeman's diverse population.

HRDC will complete most of the work associated with this project. Once the Gallatin Valley Urban Transportation District is fully operational, it will take over the fiduciary responsibility for all of Streamline’s current projects.

HRDC is a private, not-for-profit Community Action Agency focused on building a better community through nearly 50 different initiatives aimed at combating poverty in southwestern Montana. Streamline is a program of HRDC with a proven track record of benefiting all area residents through the provision of bus transportation. Streamline promotes equity, fosters economic development, and advances sustainability goals.

More information about HRDC’s Streamline can be found at https://streamlinebus.com/ Donors, volunteers, and community members can learn more about HRDC at

https://thehrdc.org/

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According to the American Public Transit Association:

• ●  Public transportation provides vital connections to jobs, schools, and medical facilities.

• ●  Every $1 invested in public transportation generates $5 in economic returns.

• ●  87% of public transportation trips have a direct impact on the local economy.

• ●  Public transit users can save nearly $10K a year vs. driving an automobile.

• ●  Communities with strong public transportation can reduce the nation’s carbon emissions by 37 million metric tons yearly.

  HRDC’s Streamline benefits us all by:

• ●  Facilitating responsible growth

• ●  Creating opportunities for all (e.g. provides transportation to work, school, recreation,

  shopping, etc.)

• ●  Serving people with unique needs including the seniors, people with mobility challenges,

  young riders

• ●  Reducing traffic congestion

• ●  Lessening parking pressure

• ●  Improving air quality

  Streamline is also key to addressing the growth and affordability issues of Gallatin County by ensuring everyone has access to essential services, educational & workforce opportunities, and recreation regardless of income.