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  Case Studies  Montana Statewide Rural Transit Needs Assessment

Statewide Rural Transit Needs Assessment

Montana Department of Transportation (MDT)

Regional Needs Summary

2024

Montana (Statewide)

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Overview

Lead the development and implementation plan, as well as support public involvement activities.

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Challenge

Creating an action plan for the Montana Transit Rural Needs Study to include pragmatic, actionable recommendations in the short-, mid-, and long-term.

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COllaborators

AECOM

Overview

Rural Transit Needs Assessment

DRB led the development of a statewide rural transit needs assessment and implementation framework for the Montana Department of Transportation. The project focused on translating analysis and stakeholder input into a clear, actionable roadmap – providing MDT and its partners with defined next steps to address rural transit needs across the state.

Working in collaboration with AECOM, MDT, and key stakeholders, DRB ensured the final output moved beyond findings to practical, prioritized action.

Project Rundown

  • Project Name: Rural Transit Needs Assessment
  • Client: Montana Department of Transportation
  • Project Budget: $31,500
  • Location: Montana (Services Statewide)
  • Start Date: November 20, 2024
  • End Date: November 1, 2025
  • Service Type: Statewide and Regional Needs Assessment

Scope of Work 

DRB was responsible for leading the development of an action-oriented implementation plan grounded in the findings of Montana’s rural transit needs analysis. The work included:

  • Supporting public involvement and stakeholder coordination
  • Leading partners through the transition from analysis to implementation
  • Drafting short-, mid-, and long-term recommendations tied to clear goals and priorities
  • Incorporating feedback and refining recommendations into a final plan

Project Outcomes

The project delivered a pragmatic, actionable implementation plan that provides MDT with a clear path forward. By focusing on accountability, sequencing, and feasibility, the final plan equips decision-makers with the tools needed to move from assessment to action.

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