HRDC is inviting Gallatin Valley residents to help celebrate a pair of public transportation highlights on Aug. 24 as part of the organization’s annual luncheon.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at HRDC’s Main Office located at 32 S. Tracy Ave. There will be a free lunch and dessert catered by the Fork & Spoon restaurant, guest speakers and details about our future plans.

A presentation with guest speakers will begin at noon. Confirmed guest speakers will include:

• Heather Grenier, HRDC CEO

• Sunshine Ross, HRDC Transportation Director

• Mark Egge, GVUTD Board

• Bozeman City Representative

• Federal Representative

Among

• 17 years of zero-fare Streamline bus service to the Gallatin Valley.

• 50 years of Galavan service to veterans, seniors and others with disabilities who need rides

  to medical and other important appointments.

• The formation of the Gallatin Valley Urban Transportation District and the appointment

  naming of its new board members.

  During the past few years, HRDC has redesigned the Streamline routes, navigated the complexities of managing a transit and paratransit service during a worldwide pandemic, implemented new bus routes and bus stops, and gathered over 16,000 valid signatures and nearly 80% of the vote to create the new urban transportation district.

the things we’ll be celebrating are:

“Public support has been crucial to all of the success we’ve enjoyed regarding our transit services,” HRDC CEO Heather Grenier said. “We’re excited about what we’ve accomplished, and about the future of transit in our community under the new UTD.”

HRDC’s 17-year history of zero-fare Streamline service places an emphasis on connectivity, linking people, regardless of income or ability, to essential services, school, shopping, work and recreation, said HRDC Transportation Director Sunshine Ross.

Beyond its role as a mode of transportation, Streamline also promotes environmental stewardship within our community, helping to reduce single car traffic and keeping our air clean. Streamline helps reduce traffic congestion and parking demand, promotes sustainability, and offers a practical solution to the traffic challenges that come with rapidly growing communities such as Bozeman and Belgrade.

Galavan, HRDC's paratransit service, also serves as an essential lifeline for those in our community, specifically for older adults and/or people with disabilities. Galavan started in 1973, and its 50 years of successful operations are a testament to our community’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and support for older adults, people with disabilities, and veterans.

As a door-to-door service, Galavan significantly enhances accessibility and fairness, ensuring that every member of our community has the means to engage fully in civic, social and personal pursuits.

The public is warmly invited to attend!