Bolt Missoula Magazine

MISSOULA

Ride the Line. Benefits

Living along the Line

MAKING THE COMMUTE

us all.

The road to

zero-fare success

THERE’S THIS PLACE THE PEOPLE ARE AS FREE AS THE BUSES

With 3 rivers, 7 wilderness areas with over 68,000 acres of natural beauty, and free public transportation, there is no destination like Missoula.

Call our experts at 1.800.526.3465 or visit destinationmissoula.org

Inside e 4 WELCOME ABOARD

Letters from Corey Aldridge, Eric Hines and Mayor John Engen

6 RIDERSHIP WITH

BENEFITS

The impact of public transit

18 THE ROAD TO SUCCESS

Zero-fare success in Missoula

21 B ENEFITS US ALL

Quick facts

22 BIKE & BUS

In perfect harmony

8 BOLT! MISSOULA

23 MISSOULA IN MOTION

10 LIVING ALONG THE LINE

24 COMMUTER OF THE YEAR

12 EVENING SERVICE

25 SOUTHGATE MALL

Lightning strikes every 15 minutes

Communities make the commute

Enjoy late evening service

until 10pm

13 DESTINATIONS

Hot spots along Mountain Line routes

14 GRIZ RIDERS

UM, UDASH, and Mountain Line en route to a great partnership

16 UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

Tales from the bike lane

29 MISSOULA

AGING SERVICES Zero-fare partner

30 MISSOULA COUNTY

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Zero-fare partner

31 MEET THE NEW BUSES

Discover the inspiration behind the design

Rider Andrea Davis

Zero-fare partner

26 BUS STOP MASTER PLAN

All signs point to yes

27 MISSOULA DOWNTOWN

Connecting our community

28 COMMUNITY

MEDICAL CENTER Zero-fare partner

Zero-fare partner

Any reproduction or reprint of this guide, or portion thereof, without written permission from Mountain Line is prohibited. Information subject to change without notification.

Please call published telephone numbers to confirm details. Published by Windfall, Inc.

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

3

Welcome aboard It’s no secret; there really is something special about Missoula. Whether you’ve called our city home your entire life or have only lived here for a short time, there’s no denying that the Garden City is a great place to live, work, go to school, or raise a family. One of Missoula’s many unique attributes that benefits us all is Mountain Line, our community bus service. It’s a testament to our vibrant culture that Missoula is growing, and Mountain Line is growing along with it.

Since arriving here from southwestern Washington state several months ago, my family has been amazed by the welcoming and open nature of our unique city, and we’re thankful to be part of this active and caring community. We can’t thank you, our friends and neighbors, enough for making us feel right at home in no time at all. As someone with a deep love for public transit, it’s exciting to live in a community that believes public

transit creates a quality community. Missoulians really care about making our city a better place to live, even if they do not always agree on the exact path to get there.

It is this sense of place that makes Missoula truly special, and it’s something we shouldn’t take for granted.

Thanks to our generous community partners, Mountain Line is able to operate as a zero-fare system, offering the ultimate convenience for residents. It’s clear to our partners that a healthy transportation system creates a quality community and benefits everyone in our community, riders and non-riders alike, by reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and helping residents stay active and mobile. Zero-fare enables us to maximize these benefits and ensures that our service is available to everyone. Our community partners have changed the way Missoulian’s view transportation in their great city.

At Mountain Line, we are committed to serving the community through continued innovation and making it easier than ever to ride the line.

Corey Aldridge GENERAL MANAGER, MOUNTAIN LINE

MISSOULA MISSOULA

ON THE COVER:

Looking east from the Riverfront Walking Trail, hints of fall colors start to show on the trees as BOLT! Route 1 crosses the Madison Street Bridge.

4

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

As we near the end of 2015, the Missoula Urban Transportation District, the unit of local government that operates the Mountain Line Bus System, would like to thank Missoula for sharing our vision of the importance of public transportation in our community by ensuring it is an integral It for everyone in our community. part of the City’s is thousands of Missoulians getting aking growth policy. As to work, students getting to class 's future a transportation on time to make the most to the district,ofwetheir education, and seniors and residents me for continue to focus with disabilities remaining active and inward by putting “Our quality service mobile.

It also means less congestion oving where most people me live, work, and g play. ty The major rant improvements implemented this past January saw Mountain Line exceed 1 million annual ridesroadways for the first time its history, on our andinbetter air. nit of and we look forward to continued growth in And with our community partners tes the the coming years. In fact, during the first eight and ongoing community pplauds months since introducing zero-fare,support, along with Mountain Line will continue to benefit more BOLT! and late evening service, Mountain t in Line provided over 200,000 more rides, a 35% us all. ure, but increase, compared to the same period in 2014.

We hope you enjoy this first ortation This strong growth represents a better quality of issue of BOLT! Magazine and t lengths life for everyone in our community. Overlearn the next more aboutcan how you can to experience d by year, Missoulians look forward bus stop one of theincluding best modern signage and e most improvements small urban nd thanks amenities, as the transportation district begins to implement our Bus Stop Master Plan. transportation ent, we systems We hope in youAmerica. enjoy the latest issue of BOLT! o move Missoula Magazine and learn more about how See you on board. o use you can experience one of the best small urban modern transportation systems in America. See you on Sincerely ractive board.

ut the g. on ne and ming e than the growth life

Mountain Line contributes to the quality of life Missoulians enjoy today, and it’s a critical part of ensuring that quality of life in the future.

I was 14 years old and a Hellgate High School freshman when Mountain Line started nearly 37 years ago with just four buses. The University of Montana was celebrating its 75th anniversary; Champion International had just merged with the Hoerner-Waldorf Corp; and while the airport was getting ready to expand, passenger train service was poised to end just two years later. Missoula was a city with change underfoot.

As the first community bus system in Montana, Mountain Line would remain a constant in Missoula, expanding to meet Missoula’s needs. Those original four buses evolved into the first-rate public transit system Missoula enjoys today, delivering a record breaking one million rides in the last year.

Mountain Line gets employees to work, takes students to class, and helps senior citizens and people with disabilities remain independent. The bus system also helps our community lower traffic congestion, parking demand, and air pollution levels. It is part of our appeal in the competitive market place for jobs, and it makes our community a great place to live.

Mountain Line serves more people in more ways than ever before: • Zero-fare bus service – Has successfully and substantially increased ridership, helping our buses operate more efficiently, and making better use of transit dollars.

• I ncreased frequency with BOLT! – Super-convenient bus service running every 15 minutes on Routes 1 and 2.

•M ore services for riders who bike – Bike racks on all buses and bike stations conveniently located at bus stops around town.

•M ore ways to stay connected – Free on-board Wi-Fi service, thanks to Community Medical Center.

• I ncreased convenience – Real-time bus tracking and rider alerts through the Mountain Line mobile app and website.

Serving as Missoula’s mayor is the best job I’ve ever had. I am responsible for the city’s day-today operations involving more than 500 city employees and also Eric Hines the amazing citizens of Missoula, EricCHAIRMAN, Hines MISSOULA URBAN BOARD who work together to make this BOARD CHAIRMAN, TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT city a wonderful place to live and ERIC HINES MISSOULA URBAN do business. Mountain Line is a part of that mix, contributing BOARD CHAIRMAN, MISSOULA TRANSPORTATION to our quality of life, and that’s why I’m on board.

URBAN TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT

Our Missoula. Looking Inward.

Moving Forward.

DISTRICT

MOUNTAIN LINE PROVIDED OVER 200,000 MORE RIDES, A 35% INCREASE, COMPARED TO ER: Enjoy Missoula through healthy transportation.

THEthe SAME PERIOD IN 2014. bike and riding bus make getting there half the

John Engen MAYOR OF MISSOULA

e on biking with Mountain Line on page 25. son Kenter.

ne bus in the fall. Photo by Debra Minez.

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

5

Ridership with Benefits The impact of public transit on our community.

Ask any person in Missoula why he or she chooses to live here, and answers will likely range from the beautiful scenery to the friendly community to the easy access to outdoor recreation.

It’s hard to ignore the quality of life here.

Although it’s a little less obvious than the M trail or the annual River City Roots Festival, Missoula’s Mountain Line bus system is an important part of creating a quality community.

In bigger cities, public transportation is part of daily life. A big reason is simply for a more convenient and less expensive way to get to work every day. The average commute time for most Americans is almost half an hour, one way.

With its smaller geographic footprint, it would seem like Missoula is safe from that kind of hassle – unless your daily commute takes you along

6

Reserve (or Russell or Broadway or Higgins) at rush hour. It’s not so far out of line to expect to spend half an hour or more in your car, wondering how you always manage to pick the lane that moves at the same pace as the glaciers that carved this valley. Mountain Line, with its free service, can get you to work or school or the grocery store, and you can read a book or catch a nap while you’re en route.

Mountain Line introduced the zero-fare system in January 2015. Since then, ridership has increased every month. That’s not a surprise when you consider the cost of running a car – average out fuel costs, insurance, and maintenance – is

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

almost $.60 per mile. If you drive ten miles every day, you’re spending $6.00 a day. Multiply that by five days a week and then by 52 weeks a year. You spend $1,560 just driving to and from work.

Compare that to free.

Aside from saving money by

IF YOU DRIVE TEN MILES EVERY DAY, YOU’RE SPENDING $1,565 A YEAR...

COMPARE THAT TO FREE. riding the bus instead of taking a car, there are bigger reasons Mountain Line helps make Missoula a quality community. They can be divided into four main categories: economic impact, environmental impact, improved

EVERY $1 INVESTED IN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION GENERATES AROUND $4 IN ECONOMIC RETURNS.

Downtown Transfer Center

physical health, and community livability.

Mountain Line’s economic impact isn’t just about saving a single person the cost of gas.

Communities that invest in public transportation systems see a significant return in terms of new jobs created, more business activity, and higher home values. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) collected and analyzed data and found that every $1 invested in public transportation generates around $4 in economic returns.

In cities and towns around the country, simply investing in the public transportation system creates a chain reaction that leads to more business creation. Where there are people, there will be businesses to serve them.

It’s also not a far stretch to say that quality public transportation, like Mountain Line, can help attract new businesses to the community.

The city and people of Missoula care about what kind of economic development happens in the community, and the emphasis is on sustainability. Mountain Line

is a way Missoula can attract businesses that focus on reducing their environmental impacts. With a strong public transportation system, a community has a better chance of enticing businesses to open offices and stores where their employees can bus, bike, walk, or otherwise ride to work.

It’s probably easiest to see the environmental benefits of Mountain Line. Missoula’s population has grown by nearly a quarter in the last 15 years.

The increase in vehicle traffic causes an increase in emissions and a decrease in air quality.

For Missoula, this is especially challenging when weather systems keep air locked into the valley for extended periods of time. Taking even a fraction of the vehicles off the road reduces emissions enough to make a difference. The APTA estimates that one person with a 10-mile round trip commute who switches from driving to public transit can reduce his or her daily carbon emissions by 10 pounds, or more than 2,400 pounds in a year.

There are economic impacts to fewer cars traveling the roads as well. Less traffic means less wear and tear.

Money that the community saves on fixing heavily traveled roads can be spent on other priority areas.

With reduced emissions from

increased bus ridership, more people can get outside more often and enjoy the hiking, biking, and skiing that make Missoula popular with the active crowd. In fact, Montana is one of the healthiest states in the nation. Taking the bus can make you even healthier. The walk to and from the bus stop every day adds physical activity that can be hard to come by with a desk job. Even an extra ten minutes of activity on a daily basis has a positive impact on your physical and emotional health.

For bikers, Mountain Line is also a great combined commuting strategy. Bike to your bus stop, then use the racks on the front of the bus to store your bike while you ride.

One of the reasons people love Missoula is the friendly, inclusive community. Mountain Line helps keep Missoula inclusive by serving people who might struggle financially or physically to get to work or school or to access important community services. Seniors and people with disabilities can count on Mountain Line to keep them mobile in the community. The introduction of zero-fare and additional 15-minute BOLT! service on a second route makes it even easier for people to get from A to B.

Missoula is the kind of town that draws people in and makes them want to make the community a better place. Mountain Line is proud to be part of the reason Missoula continues to grow and thrive.

Grab a Route Map while visiting the Downtown Transfer Center

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

7

Who says lightning only strikes once?

With BOLT! service, our buses strike every 15 minutes.

Frequency equals convenience.

That’s why Mountain Line created BOLT! service.

There is less time waiting for a bus, less confusion on bus times and schedules, and more time to enjoy your ride and your destination. If you happen to miss your bus, no worries. The next one is on its way!

BOLT! is a route designation. When you see it on a map or sign, it means that each stop along the route will have a bus to pick you up every 15 minutes from 7:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Route 1, which runs from downtown to the

University and to Southgate Mall, is a designated BOLT! route. Route 2, which runs from downtown to St. Patrick Hospital to Reserve Street and to Southgate Mall, also has BOLT! frequency. BOLT! service means buses now run on your schedule.

Western Montana Clinic

BROADWAY BUILDING 500 W BROADWAY

8

COMMUNITY MEDICAL CAMPUS PHYSICAN CENTER 3

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

GARDEN CITY MED ARTS BLDG 601 W SPRUCE

NOW CARE SOUTHGATE MALL ALSO IN BROADWAY BLDG

me

yR

d.

ad

Effective September 28, 2015.

roa

Rd.

dw

llan

ay

Dickenson

Scott St. Byron

B W.

N. Russell

Palmer

Westside Phillips

Stoddard

N.

5t

h

Northside

2

Cooper

Spr

Pin

way

e

R gin yman s

Hig

S. 3rd W.

Ma in

Brennan’s Wave

Orange

Russell

Fr on t

.

Dr

Va n

oad

Pat tee

W. Br

Footbridge

Gre eno ug h

y

River Road

N.

uce

Wo od

Mu

Routes 1 & 2

Pulman

Rogers

n

ilro

re

Ra

Bu

e rc

e

m

m

Co

ter

Or an ge

Grt. Northern Wy.

Ce

Footbridge Footbridge

S. 5th E.

Johnson

S. 5th E.

s/ ok Br o

E. Beckwith

Arthur

Higgins

Mount Ave.

Bow

North Ave.

1

Eddy Connell

C ampus Dr.

y w H

he ep St

Eaton

14th

Be ck wi th

Maurice

93

Av e ns

10th St.

.

Catlin

S. 6th E.

South Ave. E. Fairview

ssell

Br oo

ks

/H

w y

Bancroft

93

Benton

s

gin

Hig

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

9

Living Along the Line

For many Missoulians, getting across town every day to work or to the grocery store or to pick up kids is a simple process – get in the car and go.

But for another group of Missoulians, getting beyond their front door is a luxury they might not have without Mountain Line. Their limitations might be financial or physical, and without Missoula’s zero-fare bus service, they would be stuck in a very small world.

“I didn’t have a license or a car,” said Simone Stewart, an immigrant from Brazil who moved to Missoula in 2003.

“My husband drove the car to work,

10

but his job schedule was different than mine. I needed to get to work, and the bus was a safe, comfortable way to get around. It was such a great experience, I still don’t have a car!”

Simone, a long time resident of Missoula, used the Mountain Line bus every day to get from her apartment on Leo Avenue to her job at a daycare near the University of Montana. The bus stopped just a block away, so catching a ride was quick and easy.

“After work, I rode the bus home or to the YMCA, the mall, the library, to hike the M – wherever I needed to go. In

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

Rio de Janeiro, I rode the bus all the time. The people here are very friendly, and riding the bus made me feel closer to home.”

Simone is just one example of people who rely on Mountain Line to get where they need to go.

Just like any other community, Missoula has its share of people living below the poverty line.

Affordable housing, like the Garden District Apartments on 34th St. and Equinox Apartments at the corner of Broadway and Russell, give low-income people safe, quality, lower-priced housing.

Having a job and access to healthcare and other community services is an important part of working out of poverty. Mountain Line has routes that make it easy for people who live in or near low-income housing to get around town.

“For Missoulians who cannot drive or afford to own a car, Mountain Line makes it possible for them to get to work, shop for groceries, and get to medical appointments,” said Andrea Davis, executive director of Homeword, a non-profit that develops sustainable, affordable housing.

Living on the bus line is an extra convenience, especially for people with physical disabilities, and Simone found that Mountain Line was easy to use no matter where she was headed. When she switched from her job at the daycare to work as a nanny in East Missoula, she took her bus riding habit with her.

“I would take the kids on the bus wherever we needed to go.

Sometimes I had six kids with me.

It was so easy to get around,” she said.

Simone also liked the cost savings from riding the bus, something she shares with the student population in town.

Missoula is home to both the University of Montana and Missoula College. Together, the two schools have an enrollment of 16,000. Students are part-time and full-time and range in life experience from recent high school graduates to those with years of work force experience looking for another career. It’s not uncommon for students to juggle one or two jobs to help pay tuition and living expenses along

with classes and family life. Their transportation needs can be pretty unique.

Living on campus is convenient, but many students choose to live off campus. Like affordable housing developments, several of the most popular areas are directly along, or a short walk to, a Mountain Line bus route.

“I stayed on campus my first year, but I’ve been at the school’s apartments on South for three years now. I have a car, but it’s just easier to ride the bus,” said University of Montana senior Byron Boots. “There’s a stop about 350 yards from my front door. I don’t want to deal with the hassle of parking, so I ride the bus back and forth at least nine times a week.”

Byron sometimes bikes or walks, but he enjoys being able to sit back and relax on the bus. “I can’t check my email on my phone if I’m driving or riding my bike.

It’s nice to have a little time to get other things done.”

As a student, Byron has always been able to ride Mountain Line for free, and is happy to see

this same benefit provided to everyone with the introduction of zero-fare. He also lives on the BOLT! Line. “The BOLT! buses are clean and fast, and the drivers are pretty nice.”

He also had the chance to compare his experience on Mountain Line with the transit system in Portland, Oregon, when he spent the summer at an internship there. “It’s a bigger place, so of course, more people ride the bus, but they still charge to ride.”

Byron is happy to have the easy access to Mountain Line just outside his apartment and convenience and cost savings of zero-fare rides.

For Missoula residents like Simone and Byron, and for countless others who don’t have the option to drive their own car, Mountain Line gives them the freedom to live life just like everyone else.

Byron Boots

“ THERE’S A STOP ABOUT 350 YARDS FROM MY FRONT DOOR. I DON’T WANT TO DEAL WITH THE HASSLE OF PARKING, SO I RIDE THE BUS you need place toA WEEK.” live? ~BYRON BOOTS BACK AND FORTH ATDoLEAST NINEa TIMES

Check Missoula Do youout need a place Housing to live? Authority!

We have options depending on your needs Check outmany Missoula Housing Authority!

WeSubsidized have many Housing options depending needs (Sectionon 8, your Shelter

Plus Care, Public Housing) Subsidized Housing (Section 8, Shelter Affordable Housing (LIHTC, Silvertip) Care,a Public DoPlus you need place toHousing) live?

Homeownership Opportunities (Rural Affordable (LIHTC, DoHousing you need a place toSilvertip) live?

Check out Missoula Housing Authority!

DoDevelopment you need a place toHelp, live? Section(Rural Self 8 Homeownership Do you need a place to live?

Check outtoOpportunities Missoula Do you need a place live? Housing We have many options depending on yourAuthority! needs Check out Missoula Housing Authority!

Homeownership) Development Self Help, Section 8 Check out Missoula Authority!

We have many options depending on your needs Do you need a place to live? Housing Check out Missoula Housing Authority!

WeHomeownership) have many Housing options depending needs (Sectionon 8, your Shelter have many options depending youroptions needs depending Check outWe Missoula Housing Authority!

WeSubsidized haveonmany on your needs Subsidized Housing (Section Plus Care, Public Housing) Callneeds or schedule an(Section appointment for 8, Shelter We have many options depending on your Subsidized Housing 8, Shelter Subsidized Housing (Section 8, Shelter Plus Care, Public Silvertip) Housing) Subsidized Housing (Section 8, Shelter Affordable Housing more information CallCare, or schedule an(LIHTC, appointment for Plus Public Housing) PlusHousing Care, Public Housing) Housing (LIHTC, Silvertip) Subsidized (Section 8, Homeownership Shelter Plus Care, Affordable PublicOpportunities Housing) (Rural more information Affordable Housing (LIHTC, Silvertip) Affordable Housing (LIHTC, Silvertip) Homeownership Opportunities (Rural Plus Care, Public Housing) Affordable Housing (LIHTC, Silvertip) Development SelfOpportunities Help, Section(Rural 8 Homeownership Homeownership Opportunities (Rural Development Self Help, Section 8 Affordable Housing (LIHTC, Silvertip) Homeownership Opportunities (Rural Homeownership) Development Self Help, Section 8 www.missoulahousing.org Development Self Help,Development Section 8 Homeownership) Homeownership Opportunities (Rural Self Help, Section 8 Homeownership) Homeownership) Development Self Help, SectionHomeownership) 8 www.missoulahousing.org Call or schedule an appointment for Homeownership) Call or schedule an appointment for more information Call or schedule an appointment for Call or schedule an appointment for Call or schedule an more appointment for information more information Call or schedule an appointment more informationfor more information more information

(406) 549-4113 (406) 549-4113

(406) 549-4113 (406) 549-4113 (406) 549-4113 (406) 549-4113 (406) 549-4113 www.missoulahousing.org www.missoulahousing.org (406) 549-4113 www.missoulahousing.org

www.missoulahousing.org www.missoulahousing.org www.missoulahousing.org | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 | MISSOULA 11

LATE EVENING SERVICE

LATE EVENING SERVICE

yR

d.

Dickenson

Scott St.

Westside

uce

y

21 21 16 oad way 11Pine 24 Fr 2 on Ma t in 19 6 1 17 18 33 3 4 5 Downtown 20

w /H ks oo Br

1

Eddy Connell

26

E. Beckwith

South Ave. E.

36

8

7

9

ins

igg

34th

.H S.W

Whi tak er Dr .

Russell

10

Bancroft

93

Benton

14 39th St.

High Pa r k

28 rd

6

Higgins

Bow

13

y H w

Paxson

Reserve

Br oo

21

ks /

R

rrett

Be ck wi th

y

ns he St ep Fairview

12

35

12

93

Av e

.

Catlin

Eaton d

Ol

rt Fo

37

34

31

South Ave. W.

d.

S. 5th E.

Mount Ave.

North Ave.

27

Footbridge

30

22

14th

Va n

Pat tee

38

10th St.

Footbridge

7 S. 6th E.

.

Dr

Brennan’s Wave

Orange

S. 3rd W.

S. 5th E.

Johnson

Hiberta

Russell

Reserve

15

Spurgin Rd.

21

Wo od

W. Br

32

S 7th W.

h

Bu

Spr

Footbridge

29

5t

2

23

S. 3rd W.

N.

Northside

Cooper River Road

Stoddard

Gre eno ug h

ay

Phillips

Effective September 28, 2015.

ge

Rd.

Byron

llan

dw

Mu

roa

B W.

a

N. Russell

Palmer

Maurice

Union Pacific

Routes 1 , 2 , 6 and 7 Destinations =

Pulman

Rogers

ad

C ampus Dr.

ilro

Arthur

Ra

an

ce

er

m

m Co

ter

Or

me

N.

Ce

R gin yman s

25

Hig

N. Reserve

England

Grt. Northern Wy.

Missoula asked for it and Mountain Line responded. Late evening service launched in 2015 providing safe, affordable, and healthy transportation until 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Evening service runs on an hourly frequency starting at 7 p.m. on our four most popular routes - 1, 2, 6, and 7. Take advantage of Missoula after dark. Happy hour with your co-workers, Downtown Tonight with the kids, after school shopping with your friends; the possibilities are endless and the road home is a safe one.

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

Pa tte e

Ca nyo nD r.

DESTINATIONS

Here's just a sample of great destinations served by Mountain Line routes.

1 A CAROUSEL FOR MISSOULA

21 WESTERN MONTANA CLINIC

Enjoy a spin on one of over 40 hand-carved ponies.

Providing health care to Western Montana since 1922.

2 MISSOULA ART MUSEUM

22 MISSOULA AGING SERVICES

Free expression and free admission. Exhibits updated regularly.

Providing resources for seniors and their caregivers.

3 MISSOULA PUBLIC LIBRARY

23 HOMEWORD

Think more! Daily events and classes offered free of charge.

Providing safe, healthy, affordable housing using sustainable methods.

4 MISSOULA CHILDREN’S THEATER

24 MISSOULA IN MOTION

Education, entertainment and enrichment for all ages!

Helping the Missoula community reduce traffic and improve air quality.

5 CARAS PARK

Missoula’s hub for outdoor events and festivals.

25 NORTH RESERVE

6 CURRENTS

Restaurants and shopping await including Target, Barnes and Noble, Best Buy, Carmike 12 and more.

The sun always shines at this indoor water park and fitness pool.

7 SPLASH MONTANA

26 UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

Fun for all ages! Open daily during summer months.

Public research university and home to a variety of events throughout the year.

8 WESTERN MONTANA FAIRGROUNDS

Host to some exciting expositions and events year round.

27 COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTER

9 YMCA

There’s something for everyone at the family focused facility.

10 OPPORTUNITY RESOURCES

Provides support for individuals with disabilities.

11 PROVIDENCE ST. PATRICK HOSPITAL

Non-profit health-care, providing care to those in need.

13 MISSOULA MANOR

31 TREMPER'S SHOPPING CENTER

14 MISSOULA HOUSING AUTHORITY

32 WESTSIDE LANES & FUN CENTER

Offering fun for all ages with bowling, karaoke, and kids’ arcade.

15 CORSO APARTMENTS

33 MCCORMICK PARK

Resort style amenities and centrally located.

Wellness center helping members achieve their fitness goals.

18 DESTINATION MISSOULA VISITORS CENTER Offering free information to visitors.

19 TOP HAT LOUNGE

Experience live performance art, comedy, music, and film.

20 DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

Every Thursday during the summer enjoy live music and food vendors.

Offering locally-produced, organic, and bulk foods.

Home to Montana Ace Hardware and The Book Exchange just to name a few.

Provides quality, affordable housing solutions for low and middle income households.

Historic theater offering ever changing entertainment.

Savings center offering rollback pricing along Hwy 93.

29 GOOD FOOD STORE

Collection of some of the most unique shops and restaurants in all of Missoula.

Independent retirement community offering affordable and comfortable housing.

17 WILMA THEATER

28 WALMART

30 HIP STRIP

Premier shopping destination with more than 100 stores and 10,000 brands.

16 PEAK FITNESS

Providing integrated health care to Missoula and surrounding areas.

12 SOUTHGATE MALL

Late evening destination

Outdoor haven with baseball fields, a skate park, and kids’ fishing pond.

34 HOLIDAY VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER

Centralized shopping featuring CVS Pharmacy and Jo-Ann Fabrics.

35 SOUTH CROSSING

Offering some of Missoula’s newest stores including Cabela’s and Kohl’s.

36 SENTINEL HIGH SCHOOL 37 HELLGATE HIGH SCHOOL 38 WILLARD HIGH SCHOOL

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

13

ZERO-FARE PARTNER

Griz Riders The University of Montana, UDASH, and Mountain Line en route to a great partnership

It’s a logistics challenge to get 15,000 people to the same place each day. At the University of Montana, students, faculty, staff, and visitors are competing for less than 4,000 parking spaces. The campus of the University of Montana is landlocked. Surrounded by a river, a mountain, and a residential neighborhood, it is prohibitively expensive to add more parking.

In 1999, UM students were dissatisfied with their transportation options. Parking was limited, UM and Mountain Line were not collaborating on providing frequent bus service, and bicycling was often unsafe. The student body voted to impose a fee upon itself, establishing the Associated Students of the University of Montana (ASUM) Office of Transportation. ASUM Transportation started a range of transportation demand management programs, including a park-and-ride shuttle with a 15-passenger van.

The 15-passenger van was immediately too small. ASUM Transportation bought a bus, and then another, and the UDASH service was born. Construction of the Lewis and Clark Villages brought more demand, and ASUM Transportation responded with more bus service.

Today, UDASH provides fixed-route transit service on four routes, with many locations served every 5-10 minutes.

As ASUM has done since the beginning,

14

UDASH remains free and open to the public. From transporting 3,254 people in a 15-passenger van in 1999 to giving nearly a half million rides on nine transit buses last year, UDASH continues to emphasize free, high-frequency transportation to and from the University.

Mountain Line’s recent service improvements to the university take that dedication to the next level. BOLT! service on Routes 1 and 2 coupled with evening service on Routes 1, 2, 6, and 7 are the perfect complement to existing UDASH service.

As Mountain Line continues to improve its transit to UM, UDASH is promoting its services to the broader community. The UDASH Gold Line connects downtown Missoula to the University of Montana, the university district neighborhood, and the Lewis & Clark neighborhood six nights a week.

Service runs until midnight Monday through Wednesday, and until 2:30 a.m.

Thursday through Saturday. The UDASH Gold Line is a great way for community members to safely access events in downtown Missoula and at the University of Montana.

Both agencies continue to strive to improve transit service. In 2015, UDASH launched its Purple Line, providing service to residential neighborhoods along 5th, 6th, and Russell Streets. Planning the UDASH Purple Line was a collaborative effort between ASUM Transportation

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

and Mountain Line, effectively tripling the frequency of Mountain Line’s Route 8. Over 3,000 students, faculty, and staff living along the corridor now have access to 14 hours of high-frequency transit service each day.

ASUM is confident this collaboration will continue. ASUM, UM, Mountain Line, and the City of Missoula are engaged in a multi-year planning process to improve transportation options in and around the university district. The planning study will be completed in early 2016, and commuters can expect continued dramatic improvements to transportation options at UM.

In the coming year, ASUM Transportation will add covered bike parking to the UM campus, expand its bike rental fleet to include a downtown location, add weekend bus service to local recreational amenities, and continue to explore car-sharing services. These improvements support reduced reliance on single occupancy vehicle travel and greater feasibility of car-free living.

There is a behavioral shift occurring in Missoula. Students of the University of Montana and residents of Missoula are biking, walking, and taking the bus with greater frequency than ever before, and ASUM Transportation is proud to be part of that transition.

- Jordan Hess

DIRECTOR, ASUM OFFICE OF TRANSPORTATION

Connecting UM to the community with free, high frequency bus service.

Downtown Transfer Center S GIN

N

AD

WA Y

BR

ARTHUR

O O

KS

ST

EP

H

EN

S

HIGGINS

Music Building

BECKWITH

SOUTH

ARTHUR SOUTH

DOWNTOWN LATE NIGHT

University Center

Miller Hall Science Complex

HIGGINS

PARK

BANCROFT

STEPHENS

PURPLE LINE GOLD LINE

MOUNT

RUSSELL

MISSOULA COLLEGE

6TH

14TH

KS

BLUE LINE

5TH / 6TH / RUSSELL 6th & Orange

O

LEWIS & CLARK

5TH

6TH

BR O

BU

ISON 3RD

5th & Orange

5TH

N VA

MAD

3RD

RED LINE

RE

BRO

HIG

Russell & Dakota ORANGE

RUSSELL

CATLIN

WYOMING

UDASH offers transportation options to the University of Montana. Our services are free and open to the public.

View bus schedules, download our mobile app, and more at udash.org, or give us a call for personalized trip planning assistance at (406) 243-4599.

Dornblaser Park & Ride

Missoula College BENTON

Lewis & Clark Transfer Center Lewis & Clark Villages

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

15

ZERO-FARE PARTNER

UM Re-Imagines How it Communicates Former Missoula resident and University of Montana alumnus J.K. Simmons strode in a crisp, black tuxedo to a center-stage podium in Hollywood on Feb. 22, 2015, and delivered an impromptu speech that, for a moment, made the world pause.

The first-time Oscar winner and overnight success after four decades of hard work delivered a heartfelt speech as he received his Academy Award.

“Call your mom.

Call your dad,” he told the audience. “If you’re lucky enough to have a This photo of UM alumnus J.K. Simmons conducting the Griz Marching Band during UM’s 2012 Homecoming football game was parent or two alive on displayed as a feature photo on UM’s homepage. On Feb. 22, Simmons, who graduated in 1978 with a music degree, won an Oscar this planet, call them. for best supporting actor for his performance in “Whiplash” during the 87th annual Academy Awards.

Don’t text. Don’t email.

Call them on the phone. week a new feature photo spotlights • F rom the Archives: Every week the Tell them you love them, an interesting campus story. From U.S. University unearths an interesting and thank them, and listen to them for as Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day relic from the Mansfield Library’s long as they want to talk to you.”

O’Connor receiving an honorary doctorate Archives and Special Collections and He walked off the stage, and the world to UM students examining a facsimile shares it on Facebook. From historic responded to his unpretentious honesty. of “The Canterbury Tales,” the feature photos to one-of-a-kind objects, As a proud alma mater, UM was among photo offers a glimpse inside the campus history buffs will find this weekly post many lighting up social media channels to community. Each day University staff of interest. beam about his accomplishments. and students, functioning much a like a •G ame-day coverage: If you can’t And, because of recent changes to UM’s newsroom, populate the homepage with be in Washington-Grizzly Stadium communication channels, it was poised stories that offer insight into the latest cheering on the Griz in person, get the to do so. In a world where today’s news is happenings at UM. latest updates from UM’s Facebook yesterday’s ancient history, the University feed. From the sidelines, a UM staffer has adapted and found new ways to share facebook.com/umontana captures photos, videos, and scores its stories.

With nearly 120,000 followers, the to keep its Facebook audience in the Moments after Simmons became UM Facebook page is a powerful know. the first UM alum to win an academy communication tool. Each week, award, the University used its channels University staff change the header instagram.com/umontana – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and its image to reflect the featured photo on Touted as one of America’s most revamped homepage – to trumpet this the homepage, so its followers – whom scenic college campuses, it’s news. may be living far from Missoula – can be no wonder that UM’s Instagram In 2013, the University underwent informed of the week-to-week happenings account attracts a robust audience. a rebranding effort, and with it came a on campus. Even when there isn’t an Since a picture is worth 1,000 words, robust retooling of how it shares its own Oscar-worthy moment to talk about, UM the University lets the students tell their stories. The following channels are just a uses Facebook to engage and interact with college experience through photos. This few ways the University communicates its followers. Some examples include: is how: with its many audiences: • #MontanaMonday: Montanans prefer • # Grizstagram: For a broad glimpse to kick off their Mondays with rivers, into what life at UM is all about, umt.edu skies, and alpine lakes. To start off the check out this student-life hashtag.

A new homepage was unveiled week, UM shares follower-submitted The hashtag was started just before in April 2013. It showcases the scenic shots of the Treasure State. graduation in 2014 and since then has personal stories and faces of UM

garnered nearly 4,000 contributions. students, faculty, staff and alumni. Each

16

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

From left, a #Grizstagram photo on graduation day 2015, #FacesofUM featuring UM junior communication studies student Ava Pepprock, and an #EyeoftheGrizzly photo taken of UM students backpacking in Glacier National Park.

• #FacesofUM: Spotlighting the students, faculty, and staff of UM, these black-and-white portraits show, quite literally, the faces that comprise the University community.

• #EyeoftheGrizzly: UM students take over @umontana Instagram account for a week at a time to show their view of campus life. Each takeover offers an individualized glimpse of life as a UM student.

@umontana For those who like to be inthe-know, Twitter is king. More than 7,000 people follow @umontana for real-time updates about campus news and events.

Whether congratulating a student on a recent accomplishment or sharing important headlines, the University sends out streamlined messages through this limited-

character medium.

The day that Simmons was honored by the Academy, UM was ready to rally its community in celebration.

Congratulatory messages and images that originated in Missoula soon were traveling the Web, gaining nearly 460,000 impressions. For those in the business of communicating stories, that’s a happy ending.

RIDER PROFILES KAYLA KONAKIS Full-time student interested in the Arabic language and culture.

LANDON MEANS Lucky dad of the three and master of Texas Hold Em. Enjoys floating the river, fishing, camping, playing basketball, playing a prank, and learning the guitar.

“ I ride the bus to campus every day because it’s more convenient than driving and it lets me read on the way to school.”

“ I use the bus because it’s better for the environment, keeps money in the local economy, and last, but most importantly, is convenient, comfortable, and free - all about me! I call that a win win win sichyation!”

TOPHER WILLIAMS Membership and Events Director, Downtown Missoula Partnership Why do I ride the bus? “ I love riding the bus because it gives me the opportunity to relax and catch up on reading or social media. Since the bus has free WiFi, I can stay connected with friends or catch up on emails without having to worry about traffic or hurting the environment.”

How does it benefit Missoula? “ It’s no question that Mountain Line benefits us all. Riding the bus keeps our air cleaner and our bodies healthier! Less cars on the road means less congestion on the streets.

Missoula is lucky to have a community bus system like Mountain Line!”

How does it benefit me? “ Gas is expensive! The more I can reduce my gas bill every month, the more money I have to spend on things I want to like shopping or eating Downtown”

TidBit: “ I almost always see someone I know on the bus. It is so refreshing to hop a bus and head downtown and see some friends all at the same time!”

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

17

The Road to Success Zero-fare on course for another record breaking year

Missoula is keeping up with national trends in many ways, including the growing use of public transportation. Between July 2014 and June 2015, Mountain Line saw over 1 million riders, a new record for the bus service. Part of the reason for the increase is Mountain Line’s move to zero-fare in January 2015. Every month since, the bus line has seen record increases in ridership. Transitioning to a zero-fare system has helped more Missoulians ride the bus and was an important step in making the community more accessible for everyone.

When zero-fare was introduced earlier this year, Mountain Line and its partners expected to

18

see an increase. Research from 39 other communities that offer free rides showed increases in ridership ranging from 20 to 60 percent. In fact, ridership in June shot up 50% over last year.

That’s an extra 34,500 rides in a single month.

“Seeing record ridership is certainly an indication that Mountain Line benefits us all,” said Eric Hines board chairman for Missoula Urban Transportation District (MUTD), which is responsible for the operation of the

BETWEEN JULY 2014 AND JUNE 2015, MOUNTAIN LINE PROVIDED

1,074,618 RIDES

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

bus system.

Mountain Line’s partners include the University of Montana, Community Medical Center, Providence St. Patrick Hospital, ASUM, Southgate Mall, Missoula Downtown Association, Missoula County Public Schools, Missoula Aging Services, Missoula Parking Commission, Missoula in Motion, the City of Missoula, Missoula County, the Missoulian, and Homeword. Three of the partners are also the three largest employers in Missoula – the University of Montana, Providence St. Patrick Hospital, and Community Medical Center.

The group of private and public

organizations came together to help sponsor the zero-fare initiative because of the range of benefits to the environment, economy, and public health. Making a difference in all three of these areas means a better long-term outlook for the community.

Using public transportation instead of individual cars lowers the overall environmental impact. More riders means reduced traffic congestion, and reduced traffic congestion means less gas consumption and lower emissions. One person who switches from taking a car to riding the bus can reduce their household emissions by 10 percent, and save a lot of money on gas every month. On top of bigger environmental benefits, after a smoky summer, Missoulians can all appreciate cleaner air.

Breathing easier is only one of the health benefits community members get from zero-fare, something healthcare workers are happy to see.

The walk to and from the bus stop can have a great health impact for riders. While Missoula is healthier than many communities, most Americans still struggle with getting enough physical activity. Adding just a couple thousand steps a day can improve cardiovascular health and promote weight loss, both important parts of long-term health.

“Mountain Line’s convenient community transit system and the people who operate it make a better quality of life for everyone – protecting the natural world and health.” Beth Schenk, facilitator Providence St. Patrick Hospital.

Fewer cars also has an impact on parking. Missoula’s downtown is the heart of the community, hosting popular weekday, weeknight, and weekend events throughout the year.

With attendance rising, and new events springing up, parking can be a challenge. Many events, like the Saturday morning farmers market, even close off streets to vehicles.

When more people ride the bus and parking isn’t as much of a problem, it opens up more possibilities for even more, and more creative, downtown activity.

“Mountain Line’s move to zerofare service has directly resulted in more folks riding the bus to and from Downtown Missoula,” said Linda McCarthy, Executive Director of the Downtown Missoula Partnership.

“Additionally, the increased hours of operation and 15-minute service on routes 1 and 2 are bringing more downtown employees into the fold of utilizing sustainable transportation options on a regular basis, which opens up metered parking for downtown customers. We are seeing more adults and students from middle school to college riding the buses to come enjoy all Downtown Missoula has to offer. Riding Mountain Line is a great way to connect wtih our community.”

It isn’t just the zero-fare initiative that led to a record-breaking year.

Mountain Line looked at the routes with the most riders and made some changes to the timing of the buses. The new BOLT!

routes provide more frequent and late evening service at popular stops. Getting downtown, to the University, and to Southgate Mall – all important economic hubs in Missoula – is faster and more convenient than ever for employees, students, and shoppers.

“It’s never been easier to ride Mountain Line” said general manager Corey Aldridge. “All of the enhancements have made riding the bus more convenient than ever before.”

Better transportation makes it easier for everyone in the community to access all of what Missoula has to offer. Owning a vehicle is expensive.

Car payments, insurance, gas, and maintenance all add up to a monthly

“ SEEING RECORD RIDERSHIP IS CERTAINLY AN INDICATION THAT MOUNTAIN LINE BENEFITS US ALL.” ~ERIC HINES

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

19

Bus & Bike

Biking and busing live together in perfect harmony, especially with the upgrades Mountain Line continues to make. Quick-mount bike racks have been added to the front of every bus in the Mountain Line fleet, making it more convenient than ever to combine busing and biking for longer commutes and inclement weather.

Bike stations continue to be added at major hubs around Missoula including at the Downtown Transfer

Center, Lewis & Clark Transfer Center, Missoula Public Library, Southgate Mall, University of Montana, and Bonner Post Office. For a complete list of bike station locations and amenities visit our website.

Bike racks at stops are being continually upgraded to further facilitate mobility and alternative transportation. We want to make it easy for you to get to your stop, quickly lock up your bike or load on

the bus, and hop on for a ride. Look for racks to be added at a stop near you soon!

By making our system bike friendly, we’re not just adding convenience. We’re also promoting alternative methods of transportation, traffic reduction, ease of parking, and better air quality. So grab your bike for the ultimate park and ride.

“ I started biking and riding the bus in Missoula over 10 years ago because I didn’t really have the money to afford a parking pass at the U or to feed the meter downtown. What I discovered is that I’m a lot happier and less stressed when I don’t drive a car in town. Plus I’m healthier and I feel more connected to others in our community. Try it and see for yourself!”

~Bill Pfeiffer

Mountain Line, Community Outreach Coordinator

22

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

Missoula in Motion

I went to college in Lexington, Kentucky, where the buses were zero-fare for students. Occasionally I rode the bus to get from one side of campus to the other, but, for the most part, I rode my bike. After I graduated, the bus was no longer a part of my life at all. I could bike or drive anywhere I needed to go, so the bus was an option that didn’t make a blip on my radar.

Then, I moved to Missoula. Although I’m still an avid cyclist, I find that my bicycle and the buses make good bedfellows. From the apartment where I live in Hellgate Canyon, the Mountain Line Transfer Center is only a 7-10 minute bike ride (if I take the shortcut through the RUX Trail). From there, I can check my smartphone using the Mountain Line app to see - in real time - which bus headed to my destination will be coming through sooner: Route 7 or Route 12.

When the bus pulls in, I load my bike onto the front using the simple three step system.

1. P ush rack and squeeze handle to pull down

2. Put front wheel in the slot

3. P ull the bar up and over my front wheel to hold bicycle in place

And voila! I’m on my way. I brought a book to read for this commute, and before I know it, Route 7 has brought me to my intermediate destination: the Walmart near 39th and Brooks. From there, I unload my bike, cross Brooks Street, and hop on the Missoula-to-Lolo bike path. Though it’s technically still not finished (to be completed July 2016), it is already paved and rideable starting at Old US HWY 93 heading west. From there, it’s only a short 13 minute bike ride to my actual destination - the Blue Mountain Trailhead.

At Blue Mountain I can hike, bike, or meet up with friends to play folf. While it would have taken me the better part of an hour (and a lot of traffic mayhem to deal with) to ride my bike the whole way there, combining both the bus route and the bike paths allowed me the luxury of

relaxation on my commute, making my recreational time less exhaustive and more...well, recreational.

Although I don’t use the Mountain Line system in my everyday commute, I appreciate that it is available for me and for the community to use - especially if I get a flat tire or experience poor weather conditions (like the cold Montana winters that my Kentucky upbringing didn’t prepare me for).

As I get more involved with biking culture in this town, I realize that my car is becoming nearly obsolete in my life.

And as I make more friends who are living car free, the buses have transformed in my eyes from the mysterious enigma that they once were to a great resource and ally for my sustainability and healthconscious lifestyle. So hop on - and see where the Line takes you.

- Sandy Broadus

2015 BICYCLING AMBASSADOR, MISSOULA BIKE/PED OFFICE

We all have Barriers...

Let us help.

Get Movin' in 2016

First Friday Summer Parklets May: Bike Month & Commuter Challenge June: Commuter of the Year & Transportation Best Practices Awards July 17: Sunday Streets Missoula September: Bike Walk Bus Week December: Ride de Light Workplace Resources Available

Way to Go! Club Sign up. Commute sustainably. Log trips. Earn rewards.

www.missoulainmotion.com

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

23

RIDER PROFILE COMMUTER OF THE YEAR: ANDREA DAVIS

“I feel so honored to be recognized by Missoula in Motion as one of two Commuters of the Year. It’s easy for me to select sustainable commuting options with Mountain Line’s excellent service and Missoula’s extensive pedestrian and bicycle trails.”

Mountain Line is one transportation option Andrea Davis uses to get to work. Living in a central neighborhood allows her several options including riding the bus, biking, walking and driving her Subaru accompanied by her black lab-cross dog, Gil.

Missoula in Motion selected Andrea to win this award for a number of reasons. As a community member, she rides the bus and her bike regularly to get around town.

She also serves as Vice President for Mountain Line’s Board of Directors and is passionate about giving community members access to sustainable and affordable transportation. As Homeword’s Executive Director, Andrea has

24

been a key leader in establishing employee commuter programs, the many ways Homeword promotes sustainable transportation and in offering programs to the community. She also emphasizes the importance of providing sustainable transportation options to approximately 180 residents who live at Homeword’s seven affordable housing properties in Missoula. For many years, Homeword provided its residents with Mountain Line EZ passes so that sustainable transportation was available to them for free. Homeword’s employees also benefited from these passes because the organization is a member of the Missoula Downtown Association.

Under her leadership, Homeword supported Mountain Line’s zero-fare initiative in 2015 as a financial and community partner. Not only did this preserve the benefit already realized by Homeword residents and employees, but it expanded free bus service to those visiting Homeword’s HomeOwnership Center and the

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

entire community. “I am so pleased to see our community embrace Mountain Line’s improved service through two BOLT! routes, selective evening service and zero-fare on all routes. Increased ridership numbers have surpassed our estimates. This tells me our community was ready for better sustainable transportation options.” The impact of the zero-fare effort has yet to be fully evaluated, but it certainly has already saved thousands of vehicle miles and will continue to do so for years to come.

ZERO-FARE PARTNER

Southgate Mall

Missoula is vibrant and active community that is culturally rich and fun to explore. As a locally owned and operated business, Southgate Mall is proud to support the people, activities and businesses that make Missoula so unique including Mountain Line’s zerofare service. Southgate Mall has been a long standing community hub servicing bus travelers and shoppers alike.

As the mall looks forward to

exciting improvements including an outdoor-oriented, urban landscaped retail expansion, it will strive to service multi-modal transportation within the property design and improve access for all visitors.

In addition to amplifying Southgate Mall as a Missoula epicenter, the pursuit of quality stores and restaurants remains a core focus.

As Peter Lambros of Southgate Mall

Associates describes, “When you get great tenants together, it creates an environment that presents a healthy retail area. You’ll see things that reflect that commitment in the next year.”

Southgate Mall has much in store over the next year and is proud to have Mountain Line as as community partner.

We are planting the seeds for future development to help build a quality community.

MORE on board AT THE MALL As a locally owned and operated business, we are proud to support public transportation. From charitable causes to free events, we believe giving back is MORE important than ever.

shopsouthgate.com

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

25

Bus Stop Master Plan All signs point to yes

At Mountain Line, we always try to put our passengers first. It’s our job to make sure Missoula’s bus system is easy to use, reliable, safe, clean, and comfortable, from the first bus stop until your final destination.

When our bus stops have the amenities that people need, like adequate signage, route-finding, seating, and shelter, our riders are more comfortable and more people are served by the bus system. When more people are served, public transit improves the quality of life for everyone in our community, not just those who ride.

Mountain Line’s ongoing goal is guaranteeing safe and efficient transportation. A big step towards achieving that goal is developing a Bus Stop Master Plan for our city. This plan seeks to develop a three-tiered system for bus stops based on levels of use. It’s important that high-use areas have the amenities they need, like protection from the elements, adequate signage, and comfortable seating. At the other end of the scale, even lesser used stops need to be well-marked so people can find them easily. Despite our best efforts, there is no way to reduce rider waiting time to zero, so it’s important that we make you feel safe and comfortable at our bus stops.

All cities are dynamic systems that grow and change over time. In order to keep service consistent, public transit should adapt along with them, with stops and routes that are integrated with Missoula’s active, community lifestyle.

When it comes to bus stops, some are busier and some are slower and an important part of our Master Plan is updating Mountain Line’s current routes and bus stop locations. In the spring and summer of 2015, we asked our users to comment on what was working well and what needed to be improved with regard to routes and stops. We received plenty of suggestions from our riders,

and many stops were retained based on community input. In a few cases, we responded to future planning by the City and removed stops in areas slated for new development or due to safety concerns. Based on data we collected in the field and the comments we gathered from the community, we’re happy to introduce the latest Bus Stop Master Plan for Missoula.

At Mountain Line, we strive to make the places where people access, wait for, and transfer between transit routes great places that are intersect the pulse centers of our community.

To view the final Bus Stop Master Plan, visit www.mountainline.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Bus-Stop-Master-Plan-Final-Adopted-9.3.15.pdf RIDER PROFILES SUSAN HAY PATRICK Chief Executive Officer, United Way “ Riding the bus is easy, convenient and relaxing. It gives me a chance to catch up on my thoughts, my reading, and even my email. My colleagues at United Way feel the same way — we’re big fans of Mountain Line. It’s such a great community service that benefits so many Missoulians — the zero-fare policy means people have a little extra money to spend; and they don’t have to worry so much about filling up their gas tanks, driving in traffic or finding a parking space.”

26

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

ZERO-FARE PARTNER

Missoula Downtown: Connecting our Community through Mountain Line

‘The wheels on the bus go round and round’ and nearly all of the Mountain Line bus wheels come into Downtown at some point. Whether you’re in Target Range, East Missoula, South Hills, or the University District, connecting with Downtown is a short ride on one of twelve zero-fare Mountain Line buses. How does Mountain Line ‘connect our community’ to Downtown Missoula? Here are just a few of the ways: • Majority of routes come into Downtown

• Access to the heart of our community is possible with most routes. While Route 8 may not come directly into Downtown, for example, the Hip Strip stops are just a few quick steps across the Higgins Avenue Bridge away from Downtown’s core.

Whether you’re looking for a hot cup of coffee, a brand new outfit, or are meeting friends to enjoy an evening out, Mountain Line will bring you into Downtown with ease.

SHOPPING.

DINING.

and there is a decrease in demand for parking. All of these help create a more welcoming Downtown for anyone patronizing our local businesses.

If you’re looking to make memories with those you love and want to connect with the heart of our community, take a Mountain Line bus into Downtown Missoula. Visit missouladowntown.com for more information about all of your options to dine, shop, play, and stay. Make it Memorable. Make it Downtown.

TOM ALDRICH

ENTERTAINMENT.

JACKIE CORDAY

EVENTS.

• Getting you to and from events • Downtown Missoula is host to many wonderful events for the community.

Whether it’s Sunday Streets, the Saturday Markets, concerts at the Top Hat, or festivals in Caras Park, Mountain Line can get you, your family, and your friends to and from home. Spent too much money at the market and are left without a dime?

Not to worry, zero-fare service will get you home. Enjoy one of the festivals and want to get home safely? No need to call a cab, zero-fare service can get you where you need to go.

• Increased ridership = less vehicles on the road = less congestion in Downtown Missoula

• With more and more individuals using sustainable forms of transportation throughout Missoula, the community is starting to see a decrease in vehicles on the road. With fewer cars on the road, our streets become less congested, air pollution is reduced,

MISSOULA Downtown CONNECTING OUR

TOM ALDRICH

TOM ALDRICH

COMMUNITY

MAKE IT MEMORABLE. MAKE IT DOWNTOWN. 406.543.4238 | WWW.MISSOULADOWNTOWN.COM

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

27

ZERO-FARE PARTNER

on Route

Community Medical Center

Community Medical Center and Mountain Line both have a long, proud history in Missoula.

Mountain Line prides itself on being Missoula’s community bus service for 38 years and Community has been serving Missoula for even longer. Getting students to class, commuters to work, helping older Missoulians and people with disabilities remain mobile is only part of Mountain Line’s role. At Community Medical Center, Mountain Line also plays a key part in the rehabilitation of patients with traumatic brain injuries. Reading and learning the bus schedule is an important skill that helps build cognitive function. With the launch of Phase II improvements in 2015, patients and staff have even better access to Mountain Line’s services. Route 6 is now servicing Community Medical Center every half hour with service until

10:00PM on four routes. In addition, Mountain Line operates zero-fare, thanks to the financial support of community partners like Community

6

Medical Center! Now, Mountain Line will be reaching our Community in new ways that truly benefit us all.

24-7 Nurse On Call 406-327-4770

Too sick for school?

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers any time day or night. So if you’re worried about the health of a loved one, talk to our knowledgeable, registered nurses. We’re your trusted resource to check symptoms fast.

Nurse On Call is a free service available to anyone. 406-327-4770.

28

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

communitymed.org/nurse

ZERO-FARE PARTNER

Missoula Aging Services

The programs of Missoula Aging Services (MAS) empower older adults to live independent, dignified, healthy lives. This contributes to making Missoula County a great place to live.

For example, the Meals on Wheels Program improves the health of homebound people by providing hot, home-delivered meals along with safety checks by the volunteer drivers who deliver the meals. Respite and Homemaking Services improves lives by creating a safe and healthful home environment and giving family caregivers a much needed break. The Resource

on Route

Center provides information, personal assistance and referrals to help older adults live independently for as long as possible. This even includes assistance creating a plan which addresses both practical concerns and less tangible preferences that are important to you as you age.

Comprehensive information and help with senior housing, financial assistance, legal services, home health and caregiving, transportation options, long-term care planning, veteran’s services, Medicare and Medicaid counseling and more is readily available by phone, e-mail, web site or by scheduling a personal consultation. In addition, MAS offers regularly scheduled workshops and classes about a wide variety of topics, many geared toward recent retirees. These cover such concerns as common questions about Social Security benefits, what to know when you become eligible for Medicare, basic estate planning information and more.

Transportation is a major issue for many older adults and people with

7

disabilities. Missoula Aging Services is proud to be a zero-fare partner with Mountain Line, helping provide free bus service to Missoulians of all abilities. Special transportation needs of individuals served by paratransit services are also supported by MAS.

In addition, Missoula Aging Services provides a wide variety of volunteer opportunities for older adults which expand their ability to be active, engaged and make significant positive impacts in the community. Missoula’s quality of life is greatly enhanced by the service of Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions and RSVP volunteers who contribute their experience, wisdom and expertise in key areas of need.

To learn more about Missoula Aging Services, please visit our website at: www.missoulaagingservices.org. To make an appointment or learn more about volunteer opportunities, please call (406) 728-7682. Missoula Aging Services is located at 337 Stephens Ave. and served directly by Mountain Line Route 7.

See how we can help!

We are ready to help connect older adults, their families and adults with disabilities to the assistance and services they need.

Need a break? Ask about Respite Care!

MISSOULAAGINGSERVICES.ORG

406.728.7682

| MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

29

ZERO-FARE PARTNER

Missoula County Public Schools

Missoula County Public Schools District No. 1 is proud to provide an excellent education to all students in accordance with our Achievement for All Plan. The MCPS mission is to ensure every student achieves his or her full potential, regardless of circumstance and ability.

The District’s long term plan calls for transforming its 17 schools into vibrant learning communities. Teachers provide more than 8,900 students with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in college and/or chosen career path. We are well on our way to ensuring our students have full opportunities to achieve a 21st century education and to be prepared for their endeavors after high school. We see many of our long-term goals forming into daily realities in our classrooms.

Missoula County Public Schools set the standards of academic achievement and innovation in the state of Montana.

From continuing to lead the state in graduation completion rates (nearing 90 percent) through our nationally

recognized Graduation Matters Missoula initiative to expanding the programs that are detailed in the Achievement for All plan, MCPS is moving forward courageously to ensure that all students achieve, regardless of their circumstances or abilities.

MCPS is proud to offer 21st century educational programs to our students K-12: the International Baccalaureate Program (IB) at Hellgate, Big Sky and now Lewis and Clark Elementary; our Health Science Academy at Big Sky High School; the Finance Academy at Hellgate High School; the Dual Language Immersion and Exposure program at Paxson Elementary school; Project Lead the Way STEM curriculum offered K-12; continuation of our successful i3 summer program; expansion of our Career and Technical Education program to include apprenticeships and future focused design projects and students businesses; dual-credit (high school/college credit) classes; Advanced Placement classes; world language classes (including Arabic and Mandarin

Chinese); Montana Digital Academy classes (online); and extensive music offerings (band, choir and orchestra) at all levels.

Parent and community involvement provides a strong foundation for student success in Missoula’s public schools.

The District partners with parents, businesses and community members through a variety of initiatives. Mountain Line’s zero-fare service supports parents and students gaining access to our schools and learning opportunities throughout the community.

It is one key element to building a quality community that supports student success.

To learn more about opportunities to engage with the District on a committee, please visit www.mcpsmt.org or contact the District at (406) 728-2400.

Missoula County Public Schools When our students achieve, we all achieve.

International Baccalaureate Dual Language Immersion and Exposure Programs AP and Dual Credit Courses Health Science Academy Finance Academy SPARK! Arts Integration Highest graduation rate in Montana Learn more at www.mcpsmt.org 30

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

Meet the new buses

Mountain Line wanted our new bus wraps to celebrate Missoulians and all the wonderful places we have taken you since our service began in December of 1977. Since day one, we have felt honored that our service has facilitated our riders each and every day while they work to improve our community, seek out new adventures or create lasting memories with the ones they love. Our hope is that every time you see a BOLT! bus roll up to your stop or ride past you on the street, the images you see will remind you that Missoula is one of the most wonderful places in the world to live, work, and play.

CATCH A WAVE

The beautiful Clark Fork River cuts through Missoula’s lively downtown district; the continuous rushing of white water always beckoning the hearts of Missoula’s many adventurers. Kayakers and river surfers of all types flock to the iconic Brennan’s Wave to take their shot at the engineered whitewater masterpiece. However, you don’t have to be a thrillseeker to be mesmerized and drawn toward the force and beauty of the Clark Fork - just ask the crowd of people always gathered at Brennan’s lookout beside Caras Park!

HIT THE SLOPES

Winters in Missoula can get frosty. Most other cities spoiled by beautiful summers similar to Missoula would be shocked into hibernation as soon as the temps began to drop – but not us. We know that freezing temperatures are no excuse to skip out on another amazing opportunity for family fun and adventure - especially Missoula when one of the steepest continuous Moves In transit to a vertical drops in the nation is just a 20 minute ride from better Missoula downtown at Snowbowl Ski Area.

CAST A LINE

Each season thousands of flies are cast into Missoula’s three rivers, many by tourists seeking the quintessential MAKE A SPLASH experience they read about in Norman Honored in 2009 with a “Playful Maclean’s A River Runs Through It. For City USA” award, Missoula seems those people, the pleasure of snagging a to have quite the reputation for trout while basking in the area’s majesty being an awesome community and fresh mountain air is a rare escape for kids and families. Some say from their lives somewhere else. But for it’s our community’s emphasis ASK ANY MISSOULIAN, AND YOU’LL GET A LAUNDRY LIST OF Missoulian’s, a day on the river is another day at home. on teaching children the importance of an active, healthy, and sustainable lifestyle. Others TAKE A HIKE 22 claim we’re just spoiled to live amongst a natural It’s not just the thrill-seeking adventurers playground of mountains, rivers, lakes, and vast open and avid outdoor sportsmen that you’ll spaces. At Mountain Line, we think our landscape has find enjoying our beautiful rivers, trails inspired our community’s progressive and insightful and the rest of the outdoors - it’s every understanding of what a healthy, sustainable, and one of us. Our community has made happy lifestyle truly entails. the impossible possible in that we have reasons they love it here – kayaking and surfing right in the center of town, a world-class university that offers quality education and brings students from all over the globe, a thriving downtown packed with dining and entertainment options, and the Mountain Line bus system that keeps residents connected to their favorite activities.

No matter where you live, getting from Point A to Point B is an important part of every day. Missoula has a great community partner

Local fisherman, Nick Gazzara casts a line in the Clark Fork that runs through downtown Missoula. Photo by Taylar Robbins.

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 | MOUNTAIN LINE

ocal biker on the Kim Williams trail takes in the view of Mount ntinel during his ride. Photo by Nelson Kenter.

BIKE IT OUT

Missoula, one of only 16 Gold Level Bike-Friendly cities in the nation, has a rich and progressive bicycle culture. With the additions of protected bike paths lanes, path system signage and new bike parking throughout the city, now more than 7% of Missoulians blic transportation saves 4.2 billion gallons of gas in the U.S. by bike! But what truly d reduces carbon emissions by 37 million metric tons commute annually. makes Missoula a cyclist’s nirvana lies seconds beyond Rider city Profile: limits, where you will find some of the PHIL STEMPIN most exciting mountain biking trails in the world. It’s no longer any wonder as to why you’ll sometimes "I ride the bus almost every dayas cars parked in downtown notice as many bikes to work, to band practice and to events. I ride for convenience and Missoula. to support a

rn. And a thriving economy is something the whole munity can enjoy.

Choosing a different way to commute doesn’t stop ding the bus. People who use public transportation ease their daily activity level by walking to and from s, and that fits the Missoula lifestyle as well. Biking running are popular activities here. The number ke lanes has been on the rise for the last decade. ntain Line provides the option to combine more active sportation with riding, thanks to bike racks on the front he buses and multiple bike stations along routes.

As Missoula has grown, bus routes have been designed meet the needs of a diverse population. Mountain Line s passengers to major medical corridors, popular pping destinations, and residential areas spread over rly 24 square miles of territory. Making the commute n more convenient, buses offer free 4G WiFi. Missoula has gotten national attention for its status ne of the best places to live. It’s an active, vibrant munity with something for everyone. Mountain Line been a part of that tradition for 23 years and changes h the community so that everyone can be part of what kes Missoula a great place.

BASS PLAYER FOR REVEREND SLANKY, CHIEF SALES OFFICER FOR COLD AVENGER AND TALUS OUTDOOR AND DESIGNER OF MISSOULA LOGO.

healthy lifestyle.

Mountain Line provides a vital service to the community and I’m proud to say I ride the line."

MISSOULA | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 | MOUNTAIN LINE

fostered an attitude where nature is fun for everyone and health is a priority.

TIME TO DINE

Missoulians are hard workers. But at the end of a long day or an even longer work week, most of us would prefer to indulge with an evening spent at one of Missoula’s many brag-worthy dining spots while surrounded by a few of our favorite people. On these leisurely nights, the hardest part is deciding which of Missoula’s 200+ restaurants, breweries, and bars to choose from.

Ride the Line. | MOUNTAINLINE.COM | (406) 721-3333 |

MISSOULA

31

From morning headlines DELIVERED TO YOUR DOORSTEP

to mobile minute by minute updates

or online anytime

ON OUR NEWS APP

ON MISSOULIAN.COM

to afternoon highlights ON THE 4:06 WEBCAST

The Missoulian helps keep our community rolling.

We’re dedicated to supporting our community & being the number one source for local news.

Stay connected with us

Insta