Small Urban and Livability Center
The center SURLC combines the talents of the Western Transportation Institute (WTI) and the Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute (UGPTI) into an organization that can enhance livability in small urban and rural communities.
Mission
The mission of the Small Urban and Rural Livability Center is to conduct research and provide leadership, education, workforce development and technology transfer in all transportation related aspects of livability focusing specifically on small urban and rural areas.
Livability Principles
SURLC will focus on the six key livability principles (as defined by the U.S. DOT), which are:
- Provide more transportation choices to decrease household transportation costs and reduce our dependence on oil, improve air quality, and promote public health.
- Expand location- and energy-efficient housing choices for people of all ages, incomes, races, and ethnicities to increase mobility and lower the combined costs of housing and transportation.
- Improve the economic competitiveness of neighborhoods by giving people reliable access to employment centers, educational opportunities, services and other basic needs.
- Target Federal funding toward existing communities through transit-oriented and land recycling, to revitalize communities, reduce public work costs, and safeguard rural landscapes.
- Align Federal policies and funding to remove barriers to collaboration, leverage funding, and increase the effectiveness of programs to plan for future growth.
- Enhance the unique characteristics of all communities by investing in healthy, safe and walkable neighborhoods, whether rural, urban or suburban.
Projects
| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Nic Ward, Center for Health and Safety Culture |
| PI Contact Information | 406-994-5942 • nward@montana.edu Western Transportation Institute |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) |
Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – SURLC UTC |
| Total Project Cost | $198,682 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number |
SURLC (MSU: 4W6636) |
| End Date | May 31, 2019 |
| Abstract
Brief Description of Research Project | This project examined the influence of traffic safety culture on a driver’s behavior when interacting with bicyclists on the roadway. The Center for Health and Safety Culture designed and implemented a survey in Bozeman, MT and Fargo, ND to characterize the traffic safety culture of groups defined by a preferred mode of transportation regarding behavior interactions with other modes that can increase conflicts affecting mode safety. Basic analysis produced individual summary reports of key results with recommendations for strategies to increase support and engagement in alternative commuting modes. |
| Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | Bicyclist safety is a growing concern as more adults use this form of transportation for recreation, exercise, and mobility. Most bicyclist fatalities result from a crash with a vehicle, and the behaviors of the driver are often responsible for the crash. The researchers who conducted the survey study found that prosocial driver behavior was most common and appeared to be intentional. They also found that this intention was increased by positive attitudes, normative perceptions, and perceived control. While the findings have not yet been implemented, they can be used to develop strategies to increase prosocial intentions and driver behavior, thereby increasing bicyclist safety. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | |
| Web Links | The primary deliverable for this project was a journal article. The Journal of Safety Research has published an article by the researchers summarizing the findings of this study: that examines the influence of traffic safety culture on a driver’s behavior when interacting with bicyclists on the roadway. CITATION: Ward, N. J., Finley, K., Otto, J., Kack, D., Gleason, R., & Lonsdale, T. (2020). Traffic safety culture and prosocial driver behavior for safer vehicle-bicyclist interactions. Journal of Safety Research. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsr.2020.07.003 |
| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Natalie Villwock-Witte |
| PI Contact Information | • (505) 340-3570, n.villwockwitte@montana.edu Western Transportation Institute |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) |
Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – SURLC UTC |
| Total Project Cost | $35,001 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number |
SURLC |
| End Date | Dec 2018 |
| Abstract
Brief Description of Research Project | Shared automobile services such as Uber and Lyft are becoming more popular in urban areas. However, these transportation options may also be appealing in rural areas, especially to people with limited mobility or without a personal vehicle. Recently, companies like Liberty and Chariot have begun offering ridesharing services in rural areas. This project will explore the components of ridesharing business models and how they relate to rural applications. The project will also include a case study of current ridesharing providers in rural areas to look at implementation challenges and opportunities. |
| Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | |
| Web Links | New Mobility Opportunities in a Rural Context |
| University | North Dakota State University |
| Principal Investigators | Ranjit Godavarthy, Jeremy Mattson, Jonathan Brooks, Jitendra Jain, Luca Quadrifoglio, Ipek Sener, and Chris Simek |
| PI Contact Information |
Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute
North Dakota State University
NDSU Dept. 2880
PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108-6050
|
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) |
Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – SURLC UTC
|
| Total Project Cost | $117,318 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number |
SURLC 18-008
|
| End Date | Dec 2018 |
| Abstract Brief Description of Research Project | While many factors influence a community’s livability, affordable transportation options such as transit services can be an important contributor. Availability and frequency of transit services vary greatly among metro and non-metro areas, thereby affecting the access to affordable transportation options. This study was Phase 3 of the three-phase livability study in researching the nexus of transit and livability in U.S. communities. The objective of the study was to conduct a National Community Livability Survey (NCLS) in both urban and rural communities in the United States and analyze the role of transportation and public transit toward quality of life. The NCLS survey was distributed to 25,000 adults across all 50 U.S. states. The survey yielded a total of 994 high-quality responses, including 152 from transit riders who completed the transit rider survey questions. Survey results suggest that improving livability factors, such as affordable jobs, affordable housing, low crime, and affordable transportation options in metro communities, can improve the livability of metro residents. Similarly, improving livability factors, such as available jobs, affordable housing, quality healthcare, affordable transportation options, and overall cost of living, can improve the livability of non-metro communities. Further, when compared with metro communities, non-metro communities have a greater need to improve the identified livability factors, as there is a large need for improvement. |
| Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | |
| Web Links | Transit & Livability Survey ES Transit & Livability Report |
| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Amir Jamali |
| PI Contact Information |
Western Transportation Institute
Montana State University
PO Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717
• (406) 994-7526, dkack@montana.edu
|
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) |
Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – $96,859
Montana State University – $49,238
|
| Total Project Cost | $146,097 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number |
SURLC 18-009
|
| End Date | July 2018 |
| Abstract Brief Description of Research Project | In 2015, a pedestrian was killed every 1.6 hours in the United States, and another was injured every 7.5 minutes in a traffic crash. Pedestrian safety is even worse in rural and small urban areas. The fatality rate for pedestrians per 100 million vehicle miles traveled is 2.5 times higher in rural areas than in urban areas (1.88 in rural and 0.73 in urban). Rural settings present unique challenges related to data availability, built environment, and travel behaviors, which require a context-sensitive study like this dissertation work. |
| Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | This research should help state DOTs, county road (transportation) departments and local rural communities examine their built environment and determine how to improve conditions/infrastructure so that it is safe for people to walk in rural and small urban areas. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Impacts not yet determined, as this project was just completed. |
| Web Links | Report: A Systemic Pedestrian Safety Planning Tool for Rural and Small Urban Areas SURLC-18-009 |
| University | North Dakota State University |
| Principal Investigators | Del Peterson and Ted Rieck |
| PI Contact Information |
Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute
North Dakota State University
NDSU Dept. 2880
PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108-6050
|
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) |
Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – $61,725
North Dakota State University – $67,724
|
| Total Project Cost | $129,449 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number |
SURLC 17-006
|
| End Date | Aug 2017 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The American population continues to mature with an impending “aging tsunami” just a few years away. It is projected that by 2050, the number of Americans 65 years old or older will increase to more than 83 million, nearly double its current population of 43 million (U.S. Census 2014). Public transportation provides freedom to much of the aging population who would otherwise be forced to give up their lifestyles. Critics of publicly funded transportation argue that many members of the aging population would be better off relocating to larger communities where desired services are more readily available, while public transportation proponents believe it is more desirable for aging Americans in small urban and rural areas to remain in their homes and utilize public transportation. This study’s objectives are to determine the current state of aging in place in small urban and rural settings throughout the country and quantify the costs for residents to live at home and ride public transportation versus moving to an assisted living facility. Overall, simulation results show that the cost of assisted living is almost always higher compared with other alternatives. Homeowners without mortgages have the lowest costs, followed by apartment dwellers and homeowners with mortgages. Policy makers should consider the potential cost savings from aging in place found in this study. Seniors and their families can potentially save thousands of dollars annually by remaining at home and utilizing home health and public transportation services. Policies that increase the availability and accessibility of public transportation should be considered, as these will increase the likelihood of seniors aging in place and utilizing important amenities within their local communities. Without available transportation, many seniors are forced to relocate well before they either want to or have to, due to poor access to services. Because 90% of older adults want to age in place while 80% plan to live out their lives in their current homes, (Farber et al. 2011), the emotional cost of moving before it is entirely necessary should also be considered. Change can be difficult, especially for seniors who have often lived for decades in the same small urban or rural community and highly value their friends and available services. They want to continue to support their local communities. Policies that not only save important financial resources but also assist in allowing older adults to remain vibrant and active should be considered. |
| Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | The report is being reviewed by NDDOT and other state agencies. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | The report is being reviewed at this time. Nothing has been implemented as of March 2018, as the report has just been released. |
| Web Links | Aging In Place-executive-summary Aging In Place-Final Report |
| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Karalyn Clouser Jaydeep Chaudhari |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University PO Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717 • (406) 529-0654, Karalyn.clouser@montana.edu, |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – $73,142.67 Wyoming Department of Transportation – $36,571.33 |
| Total Project Cost | $109,714 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | RS10216 |
| End Date | November 30, 2017 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The “last mile” has emerged as the most important segment in supply chain management of package deliveries. It is a daunting task to achieve for manufacturers (sellers) at local, regional, state, national, and global levels. Many e-commerce giants are creating their own delivery service in order to reduce shipping costs and improve shipping services to customers. It is likely that Amazon and other delivery companies may turn to the urban and rural transit industry to partner in last mile package delivery. Given the growth in the delivery market, it appears to be the right time to investigate how rural transit may have a role in the last mile package delivery system. The goal of this project is to assess the feasibility of last mile package delivery as a revenue generation tool for rural public transportation systems in Wyoming. In an effort to assess the feasibility, the research team conducted an in-depth literature review and surveyed local Wyoming businesses, state department of transportation officials, and transit managers. The survey results, literature review, and demand and potential revenue suggest that the transit agencies have the capacity to add a package delivery service Looking at the number of households in Wyoming, the researchers estimate that on average, each county could see $215,373 in potential revenue from package delivery via public transportation systems. The following are specific recommendations that, if implemented, would help to initiate package deliveries in rural areas: 1) Build a relationship with riders, businesses, and stakeholders; 2) Access potential markets; 3) Develop a level of package delivery services; 4) Develop integration of passenger and package delivery services; 5) Collaborate with Intercity Bus Services and other package delivery companies; and 6) Begin building a package delivery infrastructure. A strong and continuing support of WYDOT to transit services to add last mile package delivery will benefit transit agencies, their parent organizations, local communities, businesses, organizations, and e-commerce and shipping industries. |
| Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | The information contained in the report is being reviewed by the Wyoming Department of Transportation and transit systems for potential implementation. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | As noted above, the information in the report is being reviewed. As of January 2018, no implementation has yet occurred. |
| Web Links | FinalReport-Last Mile-Revenue Generation |
| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Karalyn Clouser David Kack |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University PO Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717 (406) 529-0654, Karalyn.clouser@montana.edu, (406) 994-7526, dkack@montana.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – $12,000 |
| Total Project Cost | $12,000 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | SURLC 17-003 |
| End Date | May 2017 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | Intercity bus service (ICB) provides valuable public transportation services, primarily to people traveling long distances or those living in rural communities. The Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) defines intercity bus service as, “regularly scheduled bus service for the general public that operates with limited stops over fixed routes connecting two or more urban areas not in close proximity, that has the capacity for transporting baggage carried by passengers, and that makes meaningful connections with scheduled intercity bus service to more distant points, if such service is available”. The FTA Section 5311 program provides aid and funding to states to help support public transportation to rural areas with populations less than 50,000. The Section 5311 program supports existing public transportation services and potential expansion of those services to achieve goals such as: access to health care, shopping, education, employment, public services, and recreation; and assisting in the development and support of intercity bus transportation. Title 49 of the United States Code, Section 5311(f), requires, “each state to expend at least 15 percent of its annual Section 5311 apportionment to carry out a program to develop and support intercity bus transportation, unless the governor certifies that the intercity bus service needs of the state are being met adequately”. Intercity bus services play an important role in rural and small urban communities where there is little to no access to public transportation and few options when traveling to nearby urban areas. The goal of this project was to analyze demographics in each of the forty-eight contiguous states, and provide an analysis of the number of rural and small urban communities that have access to the Greyhound intercity bus service network. This network was selected, as it is the nation’s largest intercity bus network, and serves more than 3,800 destinations nationwide and provides service to 18 million passengers per year. |
| Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | Results from this research should help state DOTs as they determine whether intercity bus service needs are being met in their states. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Impacts not yet determined, as this project was just completed. |
| Web Links | Intercity Bus Stop Analysis_Final |
| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Tiffany Allen David Kack |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University PO Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717 • (406) 994-2461, tiffany.allen@montana.edu • (406) 994-7526, dkack@montana.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – $18,000 |
| Total Project Cost | $18,000 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | SURLC 17-004 |
| Report Date | March 2017 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The term “livability,” as it relates to transportation, is not well defined at the state level. The nation-wide discussion of livability increased with the creation of a national level, joint Interagency Partnership for Sustainable Communities between the U.S. Department of Transportation, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Environmental Protection Agency. This initiative has identified six principles of livability (US HUD, USDOT, US EPA, 2009), including: 1) Provide more transportation choices; 2) Promote equitable, affordable housing; 3) Enhance economic competitiveness; 4) Support existing communities; 5) Coordinate policies and leverage investment; and 6) Value communities and neighborhoods. The goal of this project was to determine if State DOTs had defined “livability,” and if so, are they incorporating it in their policies, procedures, and projects in a meaningful way. Researchers reviewed the websites of 51 State DOTs, including the District of Columbia, to learn if the DOT has a definition of “livability” or “livable community.” If a definition of livability was found, then these sources (i.e. website, literature) were also reviewed for information on how the definition and livability principles are being implemented. In addition, if a definition of livability was found and information was found on how the State DOT is implementing livability principles, researchers also reviewed and searched each website to learn whether or not progress on implementing livability principles and goals is being tracked or measured. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | Results from this research should help state DOTs define livability as it pertains to their plans and projects. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Impacts not yet determined, as this project was just completed. |
| Web Links | Small Urban & Rural Transit Center Report- State DOT Livability Report_FINAL |
| University | North Dakota State University |
| Principal Investigators | Ranjit Godavarthy Jeremy Mattson |
| PI Contact Information | Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute North Dakota State University NDSU Dept. 2880 PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108-6050 (701) 231-5496, jeremy.w.mattson@ndsu.edu(701) 231-6436, ranjit.godavarthy@ndsu.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | Small Urban and Rural Livability Center – $61,510 North Dakota State University – $23,333 |
| Total Project Cost | $84,843 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | SURLC 16-004 |
| Report Date | November 2016 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | This study investigates the nexus of transit and rural livability by conducting case studies in the North Dakota communities of Valley City and Dickinson. While many factors influence the livability of a rural community, transit is an important contributor. For each of the two North Dakota communities considered, public/resident surveys, local transit rider surveys, and stakeholder interviews were conducted to understand differing opinions on livability and how transit contributes to livability. In both Valley City and Dickinson, surveys of residents showed they believe affordable housing, low crime, quality healthcare, overall cost of living, quality public schools, and available jobs are the most important factors contributing the livability of a community. While transit was not among the top factors, survey respondents expressed considerable support for providing transit services and funding it through various sources. Residents in both cities expressed the opinion that transit should be provided in their community as a transportation option for seniors, people with disabilities, those who choose not to drive, and those who cannot afford to drive. Transit riders in both cities indicated that transit is very important to their quality of life, and stakeholders from both communities said transit is a critical lifeline for people who are elderly and/or have a disability, individuals with no vehicle, and those who cannot drive. The study method included conducting a series of stakeholder interviews, a resident survey, and a transit rider survey in the two communities. For each city, 1,500 resident surveys were distributed by mail in December 2015 to a random sample of residents. Transit rider surveys were conducted in each community with coordination from the local transit manager. Further, transit stakeholder surveys were conducted to understand their opinions on transit’s contribution towards community livability. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | Survey respondents expressed considerable support for providing transit services and funding it through various sources. Residents in both cities expressed the opinion that transit should be provided in their community as a transportation option for seniors, people with disabilities, those who choose not to drive, and those who cannot afford to drive. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | |
| Web Links | Small Urban & Rural Transit Center Report- http://www.ugpti.org/resources/reports/details.php?id=860&program=surtc |
| University | North Dakota State University |
| Principal Investigators | Jeremy Mattson |
| PI Contact Information | Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute North Dakota State University PO Box 6050 Fargo, ND 58108-6050 701-231-5496 Jeremy.w.mattson@ndsu.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | Small Urban and Rural Livability Center– $23,851 North Dakota State University- $11,926 |
| Total Project Cost | $35,777 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | DTRT13-G-UTC46 |
| Report Date | 08/01/2016 – 11/30/2016 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | Public transportation plays a fundamental role in the livability of all communities. Information on transit service availability and cost is necessary to efficiently and effectively meet rural community mobility needs. Financial and operating statistics can be used by agency managers, local decision makers, state directors, the FTA, and lawmakers to assist in policy making, planning, managing operations, and evaluating performance. Despite the widespread benefits, no regularly-published national rural transit information resource has been previously made available. The Rural Transit Fact Book is being initiated to provide information to assist the transit industry in the United States provide efficient and effective service to rural communities. The intent of the Rural Transit Fact Book is to serve as a national resource for statistics and information on rural transit in America. This publication includes rural demographic and travel behavior data as well as financial and operating statistics for agencies receiving section 5311 funding. In addition to national level data, statistics are presented by state, FTA region, tribe, and mode, as well as other agency characteristics. The Rural Transit Fact Book uses agency level data from the Rural National Transit Database (NTD) and rural demographic and travel data from the American Community Survey and the National Household Travel Survey. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | The Rural Transit Fact Book was first published in 2011, and annual updates have been published since. The Fact Book is one of the most used sources of information on rural transit. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | The Rural Transit Fact Book provides financial and operating statistics that can be used by agency managers, local decision makers, state directors, the FTA, and lawmakers to assist in policy making, planning, managing operations, and evaluating performance. |
| Web Links/Downloads |
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| University | North Dakota State University |
| Principal Investigators | Ranjit Godvarathy |
| PI Contact Information | Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute North Dakota State University PO Box 6050 Fargo, ND 58108-6050 • (701) 231-6436 • ranjit.godavarthy@ndsu.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | Small Urban & Rural Livability Center: $205,287 North Dakota State University: $102,643 |
| Total Project Cost | $307,930 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | |
| Report Date | December 1, 2014 – December 31, 2017 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The growing popularity of bike-share programs in United States has prompted many cities to implement bike-share programs to enhance mobility, health, and livability in their communities. Although the concept of bike sharing has existed informally since 1965, the bike-share program is increasing rapidly around the world and in United States with the advent of third generation bike-share systems featuring smart cards and key fobs that can electronically lock or unlock bicycles from docking stations. Initially implemented in larger cities, the programs’ effectiveness and applicability is prompting smaller communities to launch their own programs. In the United States, as of April 2014, there were a total of 42 cities and 4 universities operating bike-share programs with city of New York being the city with largest number of bikes (6000 bikes as of May 2013). Major advantages of bike-share program include increased transportation options for the public, improved health and fitness, reduced environmental impacts due to mode shift from automobiles to bicycles, affordability, and improved community connectivity. The advantages, applicability, and impact of bike-share in urban areas have been well studied and documented. However, due to the spread of this program in smaller cities and communities, there is a need to study the public attitudes toward bike-share programs as well as the benefits, applicability, and use of the program in those communities. In the city of Fargo, bicycling is increasingly encouraged between the North Dakota State University main campus and downtown campus and business district with shared bike lanes and required roadway signage installed on the major connecting roads. Recently, as the city of Fargo planned implementation of a bike-share program, it was decided that there is a need to conduct an evaluation study to examine the demand for this program, potential user’s opinion about the program, impact of bike-share program on travel behavior, and the types of trips for which the bikes would be used. With basic infrastructure in place and a reputation as a bike-friendly city, the city of Fargo will be able to launch a bike-share program without much effort or expenditure. However, because the bike-share program is expected to grow in the future, an analysis should be conducted to determine the need for more bike lanes and additional infrastructure for bikes. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | Research is ongoing. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Research is ongoing. |
| Web Links |
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| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Rebecca Gleason, Taylor Lonsdale |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University PO Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717 • 406-994-6541 – rebecca.gleason1@montana.edu • 406-994-7031 – paul.lonsdale@montana.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | Small Urban & Rural Livability Center: $122,800 Blue Cross/Blue Shield Minnesota: $89,366 |
| Total Project Cost | $212,166 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | DTFH6115H00023 |
| Report Date | December 2016 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The Small Town and Rural Multimodal Networks report is a resource and idea book intended to help small towns and rural communities support safe, accessible, comfortable, and active travel for people of all ages and abilities. It provides a bridge between existing guidance on bicycle and pedestrian design and rural practice, encourage innovation in the development of safe and appealing networks for bicycling and walking in small towns and rural areas, and show examples of peer communities and project implementation that is appropriate for rural communities. This document is intended to be a resource for transportation practitioners in small towns and rural communities. It applies existing national design guidelines in a rural setting and highlights small town and rural case studies. It addresses challenges specific to rural areas, recognizes how many rural roadways are operating today, and focuses on opportunities to make incremental improvements despite the geographic, fiscal, and other challenges that many rural communities face. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | It is anticipated that the document will help planners and others in small towns and rural communities implement infrastructure that is friendly to pedestrians and cyclists. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Document was just published. Implementation has not yet occurred. |
| Web Links |
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| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigator | Jaydeep Chaudhari, David Kack and Taylor Lonsdale |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University PO Box 174250 Bozeman, MT 59717 jaydeep@montana.edu Dkack@montana.edu 406-994-7526 paul.lonsdale@montana.edu 406-994-7031 |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | USDOT UTC – $20,259.54 Park County, Wyoming – $33,000 |
| Total Project Cost | $53,259.54 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | N/A |
| Start and End Dates | July 1, 2015 – May 31, 2016 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | As with many rural areas and small communities, Park County, Wyoming is looking for opportunities to address mobility needs in the county that can also encourage economic development. The intersection of these ideas resulted in discussion among Park County and the leading economic development organizations— Powell Economic Partnership, Inc. and Forward Cody, Inc., about the relationship between increased transportation (mobility) options and economic and community development. To further understand the opportunities, Park County commissioned this study to better comprehend the overall necessity, feasibility, and desirability of a public transportation system in Park County. As the project progressed the scope of the project expanded with a desire to evaluate transportation (modal) options other than public transportation (transit). Three main tasks were associated with the feasibility study: 1. Conduct a literature/data review and analysis; 2. Engage Park County residents through a public survey, mobility survey, and stakeholder interviews; 3. Identify additional transportation alternatives and potential funding strategies to provide improved transportation options. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | Powell Economic Partnership, Inc. and Forward Cody, Inc. will continue to work with stakeholders to determine if it is possible to implement some of the concepts (modes) noted in the final report, including a shared-ride website and smart phone application (app) and perhaps a van pool program. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Transportation is typically the second highest expense for an individual or family, behind housing. By providing alternatives to driving alone, implementation of recommendations will help provide more cost effective means of mobility. This can help individuals and families, as well as large employers, and the county, as well. |
| Web Links |
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| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigators | Jaydeep Chaudhari and David Kack |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University PO Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717 • 406-994-7526 • Dkack@montana.edu |
| Funding Source | Wyoming Department of Transportation – $123,694.58 |
| Total Project Cost | $123,694.58 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | 66291 |
| Start and End Dates | June 1, 2015 – May 31, 2016 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The goal of this project was to provide the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) with a current assessment of intercity bus services within the state, and provide a methodology that can be used by WYDOT to determine if needs are being met and, if not, how much funding is required to insure intercity bus services meet the needs. Additional goals include identifying barriers that hinder intercity bus service, and best practices and actions to improve and increase the use of those services. To achieve these goals, the following project objectives were established: • Objective 1: Provide WYDOT with a current assessment of intercity bus services and needs in Wyoming; • Objective 2: Document the connections between intercity bus providers and other public transportation providers (FTA Section 5307, Section 5310 and Section 5311 providers) in Wyoming; • Objective 3: Define “meaningful connections” in regards to intercity bus services within Wyoming; • Objective 4: Provide recommendations and best practices that may be implemented to overcome any barriers to the use of intercity services, and to identify opportunities to further improve intercity services in “intercity deficient” areas; and, • Objective 5: Provide a methodology for WYDOT to use to assess intercity bus services and needs in the future (likely every three to five years). |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | WYDOT is using the information from the study to talk to communities and transportation providers about implementing some of the services noted in the final report. Information in the study included potential routes and services, and estimated costs. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | If the potential services noted in the study are implemented, people in rural communities in Wyoming would have additional connections to larger cities and the national intercity bus network. |
| Web Links |
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| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigator | Natalie Villwock-Witte |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University 2327 University Way, Suite 6 Bozeman, MT 59715 505-340-3570 n.villwockwitte@montana.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | MSU, UTC: $127,000 MSU, Civil Engineering: $1,000 Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT): $20,000 Montana Department of Transportation (MDT): $10,000 Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT): $10,000 Washington Department of Transportation (WashDOT): $10,000 |
| Total Project Cost | $178,000 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | DTRT13-F-UTC46 |
| Start and End Dates | 01/01/2015 – 09/30/2016 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The Millennial Generation, Americans born between the years of 1983 and 2000, are now the largest generation in the United States. This generation has significantly different lifestyle and transportation trends than previous generations which is leading to the need for change in transportation policy and planning. Several recent studies have been conducted in urban areas to identify the lifestyle and transportation trends of Millennials and how these trends affect transportation. These studies show that they 1) more significantly than any previous generation, are driving less, 2) are most likely to live in urban and walkable neighborhoods, and 3) are more open to non-driving forms of transportation. While the recession may play a part in the new travel behavior of this generation, other factors like the reduced prevalence of licensed drivers of this generation; interest and adoption of other modes of transportation; and a high dependence on mobile, internet-connected technologies also have an influence. It was also found that this generation had a “relative propensity for urban lifestyle components (whether they live in cities or in suburbs). Many of these findings support the six livability principles. While there is now better understanding of Millennial transportation needs and preferences in urban areas, no studies have been done in rural and small urban areas, therefore leaving a gap in understanding if the same preferences and viewpoints exist for Millennials living in these communities. The objective of this proposed research project is to understand whether Millennials in small urban and rural communities have the same mobility and livability mindset as those in large cities. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | a. Presentation at the 2016 TRB Annual Meeting, Millennials and Our Connected Multimodal Future, Part 1: Travel Behavior b. Presentation at the 2017 TRB Annual Meeting, Beyond Vehicle Kilometers Travelled: A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Millennials c. Webinar to Project Stakeholders (September of 2016). d. Requested Presentation at MnDOT Webinar (December of 2016) |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | This research will allow transportation planners and decision makers to understand if Millennials in small urban and rural areas desire the same transportation modes as those in urban areas. |
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| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigator | Taylor Lonsdale |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University 2327 University Way, Suite 6 Bozeman, MT 59715 406-994-7031 taylor.lonsdale@coe.montana.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | MSU: $114,800 |
| Total Project Cost | $114,800 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | DTRT13-F-UTC46 WTI Project ID #4W5227 |
| Start and End Dates | 9/01/2014 – 6/30/2015 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | SURLC is collaborating with Alta Planning +Design to develop a design guidebook related to cycling and pedestrian infrastructure for small towns and rural areas. The guide will translate existing guidance and best practice to the rural context, and will provide clear application examples of how to interpret and apply best practice for bicycling and walking in small communities. The guidebook will be placed in the public domain (likely through a website) for utilization, free of charge. Through a literature review, a standards survey, and a practitioner survey related to rural applicable street design standards, key implementation challenges will be identified. The project will create a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to engage stakeholders and help guide the project. The Guidebook will include key topic areas most likely to inform and influence rural street design practices, case studies, and recommendations. |
Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented)
| Research is ongoing. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Research is ongoing. Benefits of ongoing research is increased communication regarding the need for rural safety treatments and increasing communication between practitioners and researchers on specific needs with respect to implementation of the design practices of the guidebook. |
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| University | Montana State University |
| Principal Investigator | Pat McGowen |
| PI Contact Information | Western Transportation Institute Montana State University 2327 University Way, Suite 6 Bozeman, MT 59715 406-994-6529 patm@coe.montana.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | USDOT – $149,818 |
| Total Project Cost | $149,818 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | DTRT13-G-UTC46 |
| Start and End Dates | 07/01/2014 – 12/31/2015 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | There are many Decision makers in rural and small urban communities experiencing dramatic population growth need sound estimates of future traffic in order to set land use and transportation policies. Metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) of major metropolitan areas have dedicated staff that build and run travel demand forecasting models (TDFM) costing them hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. TDFMs provide current and future traffic estimates based on different land use and infrastructure improvement scenarios. Rural areas cannot afford these full models and rely on a very simple TDFM (the rapid assessment model) built once every five to ten years (or not at all).
The rapid assessment model could be improved to incorporate aspects so that future traffic estimates are sensitive to livability policies and programs. One such effort involved adding sensitivity to urban form (Berger and McGowen, in prep). We know that citizens travel differently when urban form changes (i.e., increased mixed land use and higher densities). Rapid assessment models, typically used in rural and small urban communities, utilize a basic model structure and factors based on national data; this approach is thought to ignore urban form. McGowen and Berger have developed and implemented a modified rapid assessment model that is relatively easy to implement, uses existing data and is sensitive to urban form.
Building on the McGowen-Berger model, the urban form sensitivity will be further refined by “ground-truthing” with data for the case study in the Greater Bozeman Area TDFM. Additionally, other livability metrics will be incorporated such as bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, and sidewalk connectivity.
This project will:
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| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | Pending project completion. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Pending project completion. |
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| University | North Dakota State University |
| Principal Investigator | Del Peterson |
| PI Contact Information | Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute North Dakota State University NDSU Dept. 2880 P.O. Box 6050 Fargo, ND 58108-6050 701-231-5908 del.peterson@ndsu.edu |
| Funding Source(s) (Amounts provided by each agency or organization) | USDOT UTC – $70,568 NDSU – $71,058 |
| Total Project Cost | $141,626 |
| Agency ID or Contract Number | DTRT13-G-UTC46 |
| Start and End Dates | March 1, 2014 – February 28, 2015 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | The western half of North Dakota has experienced tremendous growth in recent years due to increased oil exploration and drilling. Along with this has come transportation and housing issues that affect everyone involved. The Highway 2 corridor in northwest North Dakota has seen a dramatic increase in traffic volumes while local airports have seen a substantial increase in passenger boardings leading to greater demand for additional flights. Also, increases in housing and apartment rental costs have forced some to relocate to other communities. These issues highlight a number of livability related topics such as affordable housing, transportation mode choice, and the sustainability of existing communities among others. A study will be conducted in northwest North Dakota to analyze these topics with a focus on travel mode choice and housing affordability. Special consideration will be given to seniors and disadvantaged populations who rely largely on fixed incomes. Analysis will include the impact of increased travel and housing costs on individuals who have lived in the area for long periods of time and are now forced to make possible relocation decisions. The effect on public transit will also be studied to gain a better understanding as to how the oil boom has impacted local transit services. Analysis will also explore changes to various modes of transportation in northwestern North Dakota while focusing on intermodal solutions for individual travel. |
| Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) | As nearly as soon as this report was completed, the oil boom went bust. Decreasing oil prices cut the production of oil, and construction and development nearly halted. However, the research outcomes are still valid, and will likely be implemented as activity picks up in the future. |
| Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated) | Rapid growth can sometimes provide the funding necessary to increase livability, such as providing funding to increase public transportation services. However, rapid growth, such as with the oil boom, can also mean increasing wages, which often cannot be met by public transportation agencies. The benefits of livability remain in high growth areas, but can often be difficult to achieve in boom times.” |
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David Kack, Director
Phone: 406-994-7526
Email: dkack@montana.edu
Mailing address:
Western Transportation Institute
College of Engineering
Montana State University,
PO Box 174250
Bozeman, MT 59717
Jill Hough, Deputy Director
Phone: 701-231-8082
Email: jill.hough@ndsu.edu
Mailing address:
Small Urban & Rural Center On Mobility
Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute
North Dakota State University
P.O. Box 6050
Fargo, ND 58108-6050
- United State Department of Transportation, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology http://www.rita.dot.gov/
- Partnership for Sustainable Communities https://www.sustainablecommunities.gov/
- North Dakota State University, Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute http://www.ugpti.org/
- National Institute for Transportation and Communities http://nitc.trec.pdx.edu/
Program Progress Performance Report #1
SURLC PPPR #1 (2014)Program Progress Performance Report #2
SURLC PPPR #2 (2014)2014 Annual report
SURLC FY 14 Performance ReportProgram Progress Performance Report #3
SURLC PPPR #3Program Progress Performance Report #4
SURLC PPPR #4Program Progress Performance Report #5
SURLC PPPR #5Program Progress Performance Report #6
SURLC PPPR #6Program Progress Performance Report #7
SURLC PPPR #7Program Progress Performance Report #8
SURLC PPPR #82017 Annual report
SURLC FY 17 Performance ReportProgram Progress Performance Report #9
SURLC PPPR #92018 Annual report
SURLC FY 18 Performance ReportProgram Progress Performance Report #10
SURLC PPPR #10Program Progress Performance Report #11
SURLC PPPR #11