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Livability Benchmarks for Montana Transportation

Project #: 4W3231
Start Date: 01/01/2011
End Date: 01/30/2012
ABSTRACT:

Livability has recently gained renewed momentum in the national transportation discussion; however, this discussion has been largely focused on urban issues and solutions such as light rail, transit oriented design and high density housing. Livability focused planning and design could also help rural communities enhance access to jobs, health care, and other services, but rural policymakers and stakeholders are unclear as to how to define and implement livability initiatives in a rural environment.

The Montana Department of Transportation is initiating a study to investigate livability opportunities within the state. This project will provide baseline data and preliminary recommendations to help MDT assess livability issues that are important and unique to Montana.  The information and recommendations will be developed through a review of federal livability initiatives, livability practices in other states, and community livability definitions within the state.

MDT will use this information to help with national discussion of transportation priorities and align Montana to make the best use of future livability initiatives. If warranted, MDT may execute a second phase of this work in another research project that will identify specific implementation steps.

 

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this research is to define what livability means for Montana as it relates to transportation, through a review of existing livability definitions, practices, and initiatives.

 

PERSONNEL:

  • Pat McGowen
  • Kris Christensen

REPORTS & DOCUMENTS:

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