The ZooMontana to Riverfront Park Bike/Pedestrian Trail Feasibility Study will evaluate opportunities within the transportation system to improve non-motorized connectivity between ZooMontana and Riverfront Park.  This corridor is situated between the S. Shiloh Road/Pierce Parkway intersection and the entrance to Riverfront Park on South Billings Boulevard (approximately 4 – 5.5 miles).  The study will include extensive community involvement and information sharing within the proposal for alternate routes, access points, suggested bicycle and pedestrian amenities and potential way-finding locations.  The study will also address current motorized and non-motorized traffic patterns and anticipate future changes to the corridor from land development activity.  This project is identified in the FY14 Billings Urban Area Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). The UPWP is developed each year and identifies tasks to be completed through the use of Federal Planning dollars allocated to the Metropolitan Planning Organization. This Planning Study will require a Scope of Work and Documentation package to be completed within 10 months of contract signing.

Through a competitive selection process conducted in March, 2014, Alta Planning + Design was chosen as the consultant to complete the study. The negotiated fee will not exceed $40,000. Staff is requesting that the Council approve this agreement with Alta Planning + Design and a draft contract is attached for Council review.