Black Avenue Bike Boulevard Pilot Project

Introduction

The Black Avenue Boulevard Pilot Project aims to create a comfortable and inviting facility to accommodate non-motorized users of all skill and comfort levels. The project will utilize temporary solutions to help test effectiveness and impacts prior to permanent changes being made.

What is a Bicycle Boulevard?

Bicycle Boulevards are streets that are comfortable for most bicyclists to ride on due to low motorized traffic volumes and speeds. They are designed to give bicycle travel priority. Bicycle boulevards are designated with signs, pavement markings, and wayfinding elements. Additionally, they create safe, convenient bicycle crossings of busy arterial streets. If necessary, they can also employ speed or volume management techniques to keep them comfortable for bicyclists by reducing speeds and cut-through traffic.

Why Black Avenue?

Black Avenue is an ideal candidate for a bicycle boulevard. This street provides direct connections to multiple non-motorized areas such as the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, Beall Park, Downtown, the Gallagator Trail, and the College Street connection to Montana State University. The roadway was prioritized by the City as a pilot project to help inform potential design solutions for bicycle boulevards across the City.

What are the goals of the pilot project?

The main goal of the pilot project is to test potential treatments on a temporary basis and to gather data and feedback prior to more permanent solutions being identified. The intent of the project is to provide a more comfortable and inviting roadway corridor for all occupants, including bicyclists, pedestrians, residents, children, and those that use the street on a regular basis. Studies have shown the bicycle boulevards are most effective and attractive when vehicle speeds and traffic volumes are low.