The first planned route of the LIFTT ADA Accessible Rural Transportation Program will run from Glendive to the regional OPA office in Miles City a distance of some 75 miles.
Connecting Communities
At LIFTT, our mission is to empower individuals to live independently by breaking down barriers, and transportation is one of the most significant challenges faced by people with disabilities in rural Montana. We’re thrilled to share the exciting progress on LIFTT’s ADA Accessible Rural Transportation Program. While still in the planning stages, the advisory committee has chosen the first route for this transformative initiative.
Why This Route Matters
The advisory committee carefully considered the needs of the communities we serve and decided that the first route would connect Glendive, MT, and Miles City, MT. This route is a strategic choice, designed to link LIFTT’s Glendive office with the Office of Public Assistance in Miles City — a critical destination for many individuals seeking essential services and support.
For individuals in these rural areas, reliable transportation isn’t just a convenience — it’s a necessity. This route will help bridge the gap, providing a direct and accessible connection that empowers individuals to access vital resources, maintain independence, and engage with their communities.
Planning for Accessibility
When we receive the vehicles for this program, the route will be operated once or twice weekly. The vehicles will be ADA-compliant, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access safe, comfortable, and inclusive transportation. Features such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating will make this service a lifeline for those who need it most.
The Road Ahead
While the launch date for this route remains uncertain, this decision marks a significant step forward in addressing the transportation challenges rural communities face. The route between Glendive and Miles City is just the beginning. Once the program is operational, we hope to expand it to connect more communities, creating a network of accessible transportation options across Southeastern Montana.
Community Involvement
We understand that this program’s success depends on community collaboration. Your input, feedback, and support are invaluable as we work toward bringing this vision to life. Together, we can refine the service, ensure it meets the needs of our communities, and advocate for the resources needed to make it a reality.
A Vision for the Future
Transportation is a cornerstone of independent living, and this program reflects LIFTT’s commitment to fostering accessibility, opportunity, and inclusion for everyone. Though the timeline is uncertain, the vision is clear: to create a more connected and equitable Montana where no one is left behind.
Stay Connected
As we progress with this initiative, we will provide updates on the progress, including vehicle acquisition, route scheduling, and program launch details. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, please contact us at www.liftt.org or (406) 259-5181. Together, we’re not just planning a route — but building bridges, breaking barriers, and connecting communities. Stay tuned as we work to bring this vision to life!
About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides people with disabilities with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit LIFTT.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.
You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.
