A summary of the key information is provided at the bottom of the article.

BUTTE, MT - Montana's vast landscapes and extensive history have long been intertwined with the rhythm of the railroad.

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After a hiatus of over four decades, the dream of reinstating passenger rail service through Montana is steaming ahead, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) and recent federal support.

Let's take a look to see how far the project has progressed and how long it'll be until you're sitting on a train bound for Chicago.

The Journey So Far

Established in December 2020, the BSPRA was formed by an alliance of Montana counties aiming to restore the North Coast Hiawatha route, which once connected Chicago to Seattle, traversing southern Montana.

This route was discontinued in 1979, leaving a significant gap in the region's transportation network.

In March 2023, the BSPRA submitted a proposal to the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) Corridor Identification and Development Program, seeking to reinstate this vital corridor.

The proposal highlighted the potential economic and social benefits of reconnecting rural communities and tribal nations, emphasizing improved access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.

Federal Support on Track

The efforts of the BSPRA received a significant boost in December 2023 when the FRA accepted the North Coast Hiawatha route into its Corridor ID Program.

This acceptance came with a $500,000 grant dedicated to preliminary planning and development, marking a crucial step toward the restoration of passenger rail service in the region.

Economic Implications

Restoring the North Coast Hiawatha route is projected to have substantial economic benefits.

A study by the Rail Passengers Association estimated an annual economic impact of approximately $270.6 million, with a forecasted ridership of 426,000 passengers.

These figures underscore the potential for job creation, tourism growth, and enhanced connectivity for Montana's communities.

Challenges and Considerations

While the vision is clear, the path to restoration presents several challenges.

The Federal Railroad Administration's Long Distance Survey Study estimated the cost to bring back the North Coast Hiawatha route at approximately $1.1 billion for five train sets necessary for once-a-day service.

Additional expenses include up to $1.74 billion for station and maintenance facilities and $930 million for track class upgrades. Annual operation and maintenance costs are estimated to be as high as $136 million.

These figures do not account for potential large-scale projects like work addressing track capacity.

Community Engagement and Support

The restoration initiative has garnered widespread support across Montana.

The BSPRA, which began with 12 counties, has expanded to include 20 member counties, representing approximately 33% of all Montana counties.

This coalition reflects a broad consensus on the value of reinstating passenger rail service, with communities eager to see the return of trains to their regions.

Conclusion

The revival of passenger rail service through southern Montana is no longer a distant dream but a tangible goal within reach.

With dedicated efforts from the BSPRA, substantial federal support, and enthusiastic community backing, the tracks are being laid for a new era of connectivity and economic vitality in the region.

As the project progresses, Montanans can look forward to the familiar whistle of the train once again echoing through the valleys and plains, heralding a journey toward a more connected future.


 

Summary:

Montana's efforts to restore passenger rail service through the southern part of the state are gaining momentum. The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) has secured federal support, including a $500,000 planning grant, to reinstate the North Coast Hiawatha route, which was discontinued in 1979. The project promises significant economic benefits, including $270.6 million annually and over 426,000 passengers projected each year. Despite challenges like high infrastructure costs, the initiative has strong community and county support, with 20 counties backing the plan. The project symbolizes a step toward reconnecting Montana's rural communities and boosting regional connectivity.

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