The Gallatin County Budget Meeting on June 6, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in public transportation technology aimed at enhancing rider experience and operational efficiency. Officials discussed the implementation of new systems for local buses, following the termination of a previous contract due to technology failures.

The new technology will allow riders to track bus locations in real-time and receive alerts about service delays or detours, which are common during the summer months. This upgrade is expected to improve communication with passengers and make the transit system more user-friendly, particularly for new riders.

Additionally, the buses will be equipped with automated voice enunciators and digital displays to announce upcoming stops, ensuring compliance with ADA requirements for visually and hearing-impaired individuals. Automated passenger counters will also be installed to gather data on ridership patterns, which will assist in planning and improving service.

The meeting also addressed the need for data sharing with local partners, including Montana State University (MSU), to enhance transit planning efforts. Currently, drivers are manually counting passengers, but the new technology will streamline this process and reduce distractions for drivers.

Officials noted that the transition from the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) to the Urban Transportation District is underway, which will further support the development of a comprehensive transit plan. However, this planning effort has been temporarily paused due to pending discretionary funds from the Federal Transit Administration.

Overall, these technological improvements are expected to enhance service delivery, driver performance, and rider satisfaction in Gallatin County's public transportation system.