With Funding Available, Montana Rail Authority Waiting for Federal Study

A federal funding package intended to expand and modernize intercity passenger rail is just one piece of a larger package being watched by the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, it's chairman said.

Missoula County, Montana Commissioner Dave Strohmaier, who chairs the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, said the new round of funding draws from a larger $12 billion bill earmarked for passenger rail enhancements.

“Our goal is on the restoration of the North Coast Hiawatha route, which could tap into this $12 billion pot of money once the long-distance study is completed in November of 2023, and if our route is recommended to Congress for restoration,” Strohmaier said. Read more.