Multi-Modal Safety Study

5.1. Project Overview: The primary objective of this project is to assess and enhance the safety, multi-modal accessibility, and roadway conditions of the 21st Street Underpass, serving as a critical connection during train usage. The project aims to identify strategies for improving the underpass to ensure the safety of all users, both motorized and non-motorized. Additionally, the project will involve close collaboration with BNSF Railroad to implement necessary improvements.

Scope of Work

1. Project Initiation and Planning:
   
   • Conduct a kickoff meeting with stakeholders, including representatives from Montana Department of Transportation, City of Billings, and BNSF Railroad, and others deemed vital.
   • Develop a project process outlining the project's scope, objectives, deliverables, and timeline.
   • Establish a project team and assign responsibilities.
   • Review existing documentation, plans, and safety records related to the underpass.
2. Data Collection and Analysis:
   
   • Conduct a thorough field review of the underpass, analyzing current safety conditions, signage, lighting, and visibility.
   • Evaluate traffic flow and patterns. Include existing traffic count information and a count of traffic during train activity at the 27th Street crossing.
   • Identify existing and potential safety hazards and areas of concern.
3. Stakeholder Engagement:
   
   • Establish regular communication channels with BNSF Railroad to understand their operational requirements and constraints.
   • Conduct public outreach and community engagement activities to gather input on safety concerns and improvement priorities.
   • Engage with local law enforcement and emergency services for insights into safety issues.
4. Safety Improvement Strategies:
   
   • Develop a safety improvement plan for the underpass based on data analysis and stakeholder input.
   • Propose roadway design solutions to enhance safety, including improved lighting, signage, and non-motorized access.
   • Consider advanced technologies for real-time monitoring of underpass conditions.
5. Multi-Modal Accessibility:
   
   • Evaluate the underpass's current accessibility for both motorized and non-motorized users.
   • Propose improvements to accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized transportation modes.
   • Consider enhancements such as widened pathways, bike lanes, and ADA-compliant features.
6. Roadway Improvements:
   
   • Assess the condition of the roadway leading to and from the underpass.
   • Propose roadway improvements, including pavement rehabilitation, intersection upgrades, and traffic flow optimization.
   • Ensure compatibility with existing and future transportation plans.
7. Coordinated Planning with Railroads:
   
   • Collaborate closely with BNSF Railroad to understand their scheduling, operational needs, and safety requirements during train usage.
   • Identify necessary permissions and approvals for proposed improvements.
8. Planning Level Financial Planning:
   
   • Utilize $7,400 of total project funds designated by the MPO for Safe and Accessible Transportation Options Planning Activities.
   • Develop a planning level budget for the project, including cost estimates for safety, multi-modal, and roadway improvements.
   • Explore additional funding sources and grant opportunities.
9. Regulatory Compliance and Permitting:
   
   • Ensure that all proposed improvements comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
   • Identify the permitting process for construction and modifications.
10. Draft Study:
    
    • Develop a phased implementation plan based on prioritized improvements and coordination with railroad schedules.
    • Establish timelines for each phase of implementation.
    • The consultant needs to expect a preliminary study review phase, during which the steering committee and other stakeholders will provide feedback and suggestions for corrections.
11. Final Draft Study/Review Schedule:
    
    • The consultant should be prepared to engage in the Transportation Planning Process, which involves reviewing and approving documents. This schedule encompasses up to five project presentations to various entities such as the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), Planning Board, City Council (work session), Board of County Commissioners, and the Policy Coordinating Committee (PCC).