From Sara Streeter, NFB Missoula

The City of Missoula is looking to create a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line down Brooks from Mount to Reserve. There will be a public meeting on November 16 to introduce the Transform Brooks – Connect Midtown study to the community and collect community input on Brooks Street corridor improvements.

This study is  important to the blind and low vision community because we rely on public transportation to maintain our independence. As the plan currently stands, the bus will run down the middle of Brooks, requiring riders to make their way into the middle of the road to reach the bus platform. While there will be signals to stop traffic, this plan may present challenges to those of us who use a white cane or guide dog.

Below are details about the meeting. If you cannot attend, there may be a future opportunity for a meeting specifically set up for the blind and low vision community. 

Event Overview:

Transform Brooks – Connect Midtown Public Event 
5:30 – 7:30pm (Drop-in)
Thursday, November 16th
Missoula Fairgrounds

This study will take the previous Brooks Street planning work to the next level to formally define safety and mobility improvements along Brooks Street between Reserve Street and Mount Avenue. The study will develop transit, pedestrian, bicycle, and additional roadway improvement designs, including center-running bus rapid transit. It’s being led by the City of Missoula and Mountain Line.

Community input is important to ensure that the safety and mobility improvements, as well as the limited space of Brooks Street Corridor is designed in a way that reflects the community’s needs and desires.