Human resource development council ix

Human Resource Development Council IX: Providing Mobility Services and Alternatives to Single-Occupancy Vehicles in Southwest Montana

Human Resource Development Council IX (HRDC) is a non-profit organization that has been serving the Gallatin Valley community for over 40 years. HRDC's mission is to provide services and resources that empower people in need to achieve self-sufficiency, strengthen families, and build vibrant communities. One of the ways HRDC achieves this mission is through its transportation program, Streamline.

Streamline offers zero-fare public transportation service throughout the Gallatin Valley. The service operates seven days a week and provides access to key destinations such as downtown Bozeman, Montana State University, Belgrade, Four Corners, Livingston, and Big Sky. Streamline's fleet consists of modern buses equipped with bike racks and wheelchair lifts.

HRDC launched Streamline with a mission to provide mobility services and alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles in southwest Montana. This mission is increasingly more important as Gallatin Valley grows. With an estimated population of over 100,000 people by 2040 (according to the Bozeman Area Transportation Plan), there will be increased demand for transportation options that are affordable, reliable, safe, and sustainable.

Streamline helps meet the needs of our increasing population in a number of ways:

1) Accessibility: Streamline provides accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps.

2) Affordability: Streamline's zero-fare policy means that anyone can ride without paying a fare. This makes it an affordable option for low-income individuals or families who may not have access to private vehicles.

3) Sustainability: By providing an alternative mode of transportation that reduces reliance on single-occupancy vehicles (SOVs), Streamline helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution while promoting sustainable living practices.

4) Convenience: With frequent bus routes and extended hours of operation, Streamline provides a convenient transportation option for commuters, students, and residents who need to travel around the Gallatin Valley.

5) Community Building: Streamline helps build community by connecting people to key destinations such as downtown Bozeman, Montana State University, and local businesses. It also provides opportunities for social interaction and engagement with fellow riders.

In addition to its transportation program, HRDC offers a wide range of services and resources that support individuals and families in need. These include affordable housing programs, food assistance programs (such as the Gallatin Valley Food Bank), energy assistance programs (such as LIHEAP), early childhood education programs (such as Head Start), senior services (such as Meals on Wheels), and workforce development programs (such as Jobs for Montana's Graduates).

HRDC is committed to serving the needs of the Gallatin Valley community through innovative solutions that promote self-sufficiency, strengthen families, and build vibrant communities. With its transportation program Streamline, HRDC is helping create a more sustainable future while providing essential mobility services to those who need it most.