Finalizing the Front Street Connector

The Front Street Connector trail project was approved for funding in 2015, but then sidelined due mainly to the reconstruction of Rouse Avenue. We are thrilled to now be nearing the completion of the Front Street Connector, which we hope to have done by early November.

This small but mighty ¼ mile paved pathway will begin at the intersection of Birch (Oak) Street and Rouse Avenue and includes a pedestrian bridge crossing Bozeman Creek. The 8’ wide paved pathway is a critical improvement for safety and connectivity in the trail system between heavily used routes. It will help users from the west side, using the Oak Street path, access the Story Mill Park, Path to the M, East Gallatin Recreation Area and Story Mill Spur Trail, as well as dozens of businesses without having to travel north or south on busy Rouse Ave. This trail will help bicyclists and pedestrians connect to trails, parks, businesses, and hotels while avoiding busy roadways.

“It will be an asphalt pathway suitable for bikes and wheelchairs, foot travel, and feature a bridge over Bozeman Creek,” GVLT Trails Director Matt Parsons said.

Contractors are working to get the concrete poured and tested for bridge footers. If all goes well and the concrete passes this initial test, the bridge could be placed late next week. Once the abutments are approved, Highland Construction will place the bridge, re-grade to provide better stormwater control, place topsoil, and finish fencing around the trail.

Local architect Ken VanDeWalle has built a fantastic, shaded bench for the project, it will be located next to the new pathway. Finally, GVLT will install map kiosks and wayfinding totems. A lot of work, planning and testing goes into trail development, and we’re excited to close the chapter on the Front Street Connector. Special thanks to Knife River, Sanderson Stewart, Highland Construction, City of Bozeman, and Trails, Open Space, and Parks Bond for making this project possible. Stay tuned for a ribbon cutting announcement!