Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Jefferson City Safety Rest Area Study?

The Jefferson City Safety Rest Area Study was an assessment occurring before project-level activities. The process involved conducting an evaluation of needs and constraints to identify viable alternatives within available funding.

For more information, refer to MDT's 2014 Montana Rest Area Plan.

Who is conducting this study?

DOWL is assisted MDT to complete the study effort by December 2019.

What steps will be taken during the study?

Steps in the study process are described below. Public involvement opportunities were included throughout the study process.

1. Develop study work plan.
   The planning team assessed the complexity of the issues within the study area and the level of effort required to address the issues.
2. Identify existing conditions.
   The team considered existing site constraints, corridor needs, public/stakeholder input, and financial feasibility to operate and maintain, as well as environmental resources within the study area.
3. Evaluate alternatives.
   The team assessed two alternatives: reduction in service (which would include maintaining the site ramps and parking areas, removing building facilities, and installing vaulted toilets) and complete closure (which would include site reclamation following removal of the facilities, parking areas, and ramps). The team assessed the cost and feasibility of each alternative through the development of screening criteria based on site visits, data review, stakeholder/public feedback, and discussion with MDT.
4. Prepare draft study report.
   The team prepared a draft report documenting the planning process, including stakeholder and public input, key findings, recommendations, and next steps.
5. Finalize draft study report.
   The team finalized the study report after considering comments from stakeholders and members of the public. Recommendations from the study will assist MDT in identifying future actions based on need and feasibility.

How were public comments considered in the study?

MDT and DOWL considered all comments to understand issues, concerns, opportunities, and constraints. Public and stakeholder feedback was one of the elements used to screen alternatives. Copies of written comments received during the study are contained in Appendix O of the Final Summary Report.