Helena Pedestrian Crossings

The City of Helena has contracted Robert Peccia & Associates (RPA) to develop two pedestrian crossing improvements as recommended in the Five-Point Intersections and Corridor Connections Multimodal Traffic Study (Five-Point Study). The study identified the need for improved crossings to support non-motorized access and connectivity, in particular to Centennial Trail.

Crossing improvements were proposed at two locations, one along Lyndale Avenue and a second along Montana Avenue. The locations currently being evaluated for new treatments to improve pedestrian crossing are the intersections of Lyndale Avenue/Ewing Street and Montana Avenue/Bozeman Street. The purpose of this project is to identify potential improvement options for each intersection, conduct a detailed analysis of all options, and identify the best solution for each intersection.

Lyndale Avenue/Ewing Street

During development of the Five-Point Study, there were identified safety concerns related to pedestrians crossing Lyndale Avenue. After much consideration and public input, it was determined that a crossing at Lyndale Avenue/Ewing Street with enhanced treatments would be the best solution to promote safe and efficient connectivity. This location will also provide a more direct connection to Centennial Trail, Kindrick Legion Field, and south to Helena Avenue.

Montana Avenue/Bozeman Street

Through the Five-Point Study, multiple trail connections and crossing opportunities for Montana Avenue were evaluated and ultimately, it was determined that crossing at Bozeman Street would be the safest and most efficient. best minimize out-of-direction travel and provide desired access and connectivity, while considering safety and operational needs for both non-motorized and vehicular travel modes.

An existing conditions review has been conducted to assess pedestrian crossing conditions. The evaluation revealed that there are few pedestrians currently crossing at either of the locations due to lack of proper infrastructure. In addition, a gap and pedestrian delay assessment was carried out to consider the existing traffic volumes and the current crossing conditions. This assessment found that it is challenging for pedestrians to cross at either intersection due to heavy traffic as well as the length of the crossings.

These findings highlight the need for improved crossing treatments that create safe gaps in traffic flow for pedestrians. The next steps in this process will identify and evaluate potential crossing solutions to make pedestrian crossings safer and more efficient. These solutions have been presented to the public to gather feedback and comments on the proposed improvements.