New tool helps people with disabilities navigate downtown Bozeman independently
The City of Bozeman, in partnership with Ability Montana and Montana State University Earth Sciences students, has launched an interactive Downtown Accessibility Map covering accessible parking and sidewalks in Downtown Bozeman.
The map gives people with disabilities current, detailed information they need to plan their routes and get around downtown on their own terms. It includes ADA parking spaces in city-owned lots, on-street ADA parking, city-owned buildings, and sidewalks with ADA ramps – all in one searchable, interactive tool.
The map is available through the City of Bozeman’s Transportation hub at and the City’s parking page.
Ricky Burns II, ADA Coordinator for Ability Montana, shared the inspiration behind the Interactive Downtown Bozeman Accessible Parking Map:
“Everyone deserves the freedom to navigate their day independently.
This map was born from my own experience. I often struggled to know where to park closest to my destination, and as someone who is directionally challenged, navigating an unfamiliar downtown – especially in Bozeman’s unpredictable weather – could be stressful and overwhelming.
This map changed that. It allows me to plan my route and accessible parking options before I leave home, making every trip less stressful, more efficient, and, most importantly, safer.
What began as a solution to a challenge I faced has grown into a vision for our entire community. Thanks to the City of Bozeman’s commitment to accessibility, this map will continue to expand over the coming years, covering more of our city and, I hope, eventually communities across Montana.
I’m incredibly excited about what this resource means for my neighbors, community members, and everyone who visits Bozeman. Accessibility isn’t just about removing barriers – it’s about creating opportunities for everyone to participate, explore, and belong.”
The map will be formally unveiled at the inaugural Bozeman ADA Celebration on Saturday, July 25th, at Lindley Park from 9am to 4pm. The event, co-hosted by Ability Montana and the City of Bozeman, includes a 5K Walk, Run, Roll and Kids Fun Run, a ribbon-cutting for new accessible trails in Lindley Park, local vendors, food, and live entertainment. More information is available at abilitymt.org/ada-celebration.
Ability Montana is one of four Centers for Independent Living in Montana. Since 1981, the organization has supported Montanans with disabilities in directing their own lives – from employment and housing to advocacy and community access. •
