Established in 2007, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, or BPAC, is designed to give Billings residents a voice in matters related to active modes of transportation. Seven members: three appointed by the mayor, three by the county commissioners, and one by the the Yellowstone Board of Planning, sit on the committee and represent the public. Terms last for three years. Our own Kristi Drake is a member!

BPAC members gave input for the Billings Area Bikeway and Trail Master Plan.

BPAC advises city officials on topics such as improvement projects, transportation plans, safety, linkage between public transportation and active transportation, and more. With this in mind, their current goals are to ensure adequate signage, compile data, identify sustainable funding sources, support increased use of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, prioritize connectivity routes, and promote respect between nonmotorized and motorized traffic. In addition, all meetings are open to the public and any and all residents can voice their concerns or praises at the meetings.

BPAC is keeping elected officials informed of bike and pedestrian needs in the community. They recently presented their work to the Planning Board and are scheduled to present to Billings City Council and the Yellowstone County Commissioners at their upcoming meetings.

BPAC meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 11:30 am in the first floor conference room of the Miller Building, 2825 3rd Avenue North. Minutes of their meetings are available to view on the city’s website.