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Park County Transit Feasibility Study

University

Montana State University

Principal Investigator

Jaydeep Chaudhari, David Kack and Taylor Lonsdale

PI Contact Information

Western Transportation Institute
Montana State University
PO Box 174250
Bozeman, MT 59717
jaydeep@montana.edu

Dkack@montana.edu

406-994-7526
paul.lonsdale@montana.edu

406-994-7031

Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization)

USDOT UTC – $20,259.54

Park County, Wyoming – $33,000

Total Project Cost

$53,259.54

Agency ID or Contract Number

N/A

Start and End Dates

July 1, 2015 – May 31, 2016

Brief Description of Research Project

As with many rural areas and small communities, Park County, Wyoming is looking for opportunities to address mobility needs in the county that can also encourage economic development. The intersection of these ideas resulted in discussion among Park County and the leading economic development organizations— Powell Economic Partnership, Inc. and Forward Cody, Inc., about the relationship between increased transportation (mobility) options and economic and community development.
To further understand the opportunities, Park County commissioned this study to better comprehend the overall necessity, feasibility, and desirability of a public transportation system in Park County. As the project progressed the scope of the project expanded with a desire to evaluate transportation (modal) options other than public transportation (transit).
Three main tasks were associated with the feasibility study:
1. Conduct a literature/data review and analysis;
2. Engage Park County residents through a public survey, mobility survey, and stakeholder interviews;
3. Identify additional transportation alternatives and potential funding strategies to provide improved transportation options.

Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented)

Powell Economic Partnership, Inc. and Forward Cody, Inc. will continue to work with stakeholders to determine if it is possible to implement some of the concepts (modes) noted in the final report, including a shared-ride website and smart phone application (app) and perhaps a van pool program.

Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated)

Transportation is typically the second highest expense for an individual or family, behind housing. By providing alternatives to driving alone, implementation of recommendations will help provide more cost effective means of mobility. This can help individuals and families, as well as large employers, and the county, as well.

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