Press

BILLINGS, MT, UNITED STATES, /EINPresswire.com/ -- The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) is proud to announce ​that the Missoula Urban Transportation District (MUTD), operator of Mountain Line, ​is the newest member of its Government Partners Program. This partnership marks a significant milestone​: Mountain Line becomes the first transit agency to join the program, underscoring a shared commitment to sustainable and innovative regional transportation solutions.

Jordan Hess, General Manager of the Missoula Urban Transportation District, highlighted the importance of the collaboration: “Strong public transportation systems are built on regional connectivity and collaboration. Mountain Line is thrilled to partner with the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority to support revitalizing passenger rail across Montana and beyond. Rail trips don’t begin or end at the depot. Mountain Line provides sustainable, equitable transportation options for Missoula, and we look forward to delivering passengers to the rail depot someday."

The Government Partners Program fosters collaboration between local governments, transportation agencies, and stakeholders to advance the revitalization of passenger rail across Montana and neighboring states.

“This partnership sets the stage for stronger regional transportation networks,” said Dave Strohmaier, Chair of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. “Mountain Line’s leadership in sustainable transit and their dedication to community connectivity make them an ideal partner as we work to reestablish passenger rail in the Greater Northwest.”

Mountain Line connects Missoulians to the community through safe, sustainable, and innovative transportation solutions. Operated by the Missoula Urban Transportation District (MUTD) since 1976, Mountain Line provides zero-fare fixed-route bus and Paratransit service in and around Missoula seven days a week. The agency has earned national recognition, including being named the top public transit agency of its size in North America in 2021 by the American Public Transportation Association and System of the Year in 2023 by the Montana Transit Association.

For more information about the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and its Government Partners Program, visit https://www.bigskyrail.org/gov-partners-program.

About the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a multi-jurisdictional entity representing counties, cities, and transit agencies across Montana and neighboring states. Its mission is to revitalize passenger rail service to connect communities, strengthen regional economies, and provide sustainable transportation options across the Greater Northwest.

Kim E Whittemore
Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
+1 7812581116

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) is pleased to announce that the Bismarck-Mandan Metropolitan Planning Organization (BMMPO) has unanimously voted to join its Government Partners Program. This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to revitalizing passenger rail service and enhancing regional connectivity across the Northern Plains.

The BMMPO, representing Bismarck, Mandan, Lincoln, Burleigh County, and Morton County, brings a unified regional perspective to BSPRA's efforts. Their participation reflects growing support for sustainable transportation solutions that promote economic growth and strengthen communities.

"We are thrilled to welcome the Bismarck-Mandan MPO into our Government Partners Program," said Dave Strohmaier, Chairman of BSPRA. "Their involvement is a significant step toward restoring passenger rail service that will benefit communities across the region."

“Bismarck’s rich history is deeply connected to the railroad, and the potential for renewed rail service across North Dakota, including here in the Capital City, is truly exciting,” said Bismarck Mayor Mike Schmitz. “Passenger rail service can enhance daily life for our residents, strengthen our infrastructure, and boost tourism opportunities. With the Bismarck-Mandan Metropolitan Organization leading this effort, it’s clear this initiative isn’t just a win for Bismarck—it’s a victory for the entire Capital Community.”

The Government Partners Program enables municipalities and regional organizations to actively engage in BSPRA’s mission to restore and enhance passenger rail service along the historic North Coast Hiawatha route, now known as the Big Sky North Coast Corridor. Partners are vital in planning processes, advocating for federal support, and ensuring local priorities are integrated into rail infrastructure development.

“The Bismarck-Mandan MPO recognizes the restoration of passenger rail service as an important opportunity for our region,” said Kimberly Riepl, Transportation Planner for the BMMPO. “Passenger rail will extend and enhance our transportation network, creating essential connections for residents and visitors. This initiative promises substantial benefits for our communities, including economic growth and a more connected regional system. We look forward to collaborating with BSPRA to realize this vision.”

The addition of the BMMPO highlights the growing momentum behind passenger rail initiatives in the Northern Plains. Alongside Dickinson and Jamestown, the BMMPO strengthens North Dakota’s role in restoring daily passenger rail service across the state. The proposed restoration of rail service offers numerous benefits, including job creation, economic development, and tourism growth. It also improves access to healthcare, education, and business opportunities in a region with limited air service and challenging winter travel conditions. Passenger rail provides a reliable, safe, and sustainable alternative that connects urban, rural, and tribal communities.

BSPRA remains committed to working with stakeholders across multiple states to build a cohesive transportation network that supports economic growth, community development, and sustainable travel.

For more information about the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and the Government Partners Program, please visit www.bigskyrail.org or contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at 406.850.1592.

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY
The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) is a Montana state government subdivision and the state's largest transportation district. It comprises 18 member counties and ex officio members from three tribal nations, Amtrak, the Montana Department of Transportation, BNSF Railway, and the AFL-CIO. The BSPRA is committed to re-establishing safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and the Big Sky North Coast Corridor, extending from Seattle to Chicago (formerly known as the North Coast Hiawatha).

Kim E Whittemore
Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
+1 781-258-1116

Other partners include IAM Union, Montana Tribal Councils, and Industry Stakeholders

BILLINGS, MT, UNITED STATES, October 31, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- In a transformative step for workforce development in the rail industry, the Western Transportation Institute (WTI) at Montana State University has been awarded a $6.5 million grant by the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. This funding, sourced from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the 2023 and 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Acts, will strengthen and diversify Montana’s rail workforce pipeline by engaging academic, industry, and community partners.

The project will leverage the expertise of WTI as the lead administrator, with critical support from the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA), the University of Memphis, and California State University Long Beach. BSPRA’s portion is $630,000, supported by a $210,000 in-kind contribution, which will be instrumental in developing regional workforce needs and advancing project strategies through an advisory group. "To build and operate the passenger and freight rail infrastructure of the 21st century, we need a trained workforce,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmeier. “This CRISI grant will help us as a region and nation do just that. As we’re entering a rail renaissance in America, we’re delighted to partner with the Western Transportation Institute to support and create the rail workforce of the future, now, in Montana and beyond.”

The WTI-led initiative also received enthusiastic support from labor and Tribal leaders. Michael Dolson of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) and Serena Wetherelt of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe provided endorsement letters acknowledging the project’s importance for regional workforce development. Speaking to the role of skilled labor in revitalizing American rail, Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the International President for the IAM Union Rail Division, remarked, “The future of America’s rail systems depends not only on investing in new, high-tech infrastructure but also growing our talent pool of skilled workers here at home. The historic investments by the Biden-Harris Administration, through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, are putting the building blocks in place for American workers to lead a renaissance of a strong, safe American rail network. The IAM Union looks forward to continuing to seek public and private rail partnerships that benefit countless communities nationwide.”

The CRISI grant’s $8 million total budget will implement capacity-building activities, including creating rail-focused career pathways, a Faculty Rail Fellows Program, and summer rail academies in Montana, Tennessee, and California. These efforts will provide educational and hands-on opportunities for faculty, K-12 teachers, and youth in underserved areas. “Our vision is a comprehensive approach to rail workforce development, bringing economic and job benefits to local communities through education and industry collaboration,” said Kelvin Wang, WTI Director. Susan Gallagher, the workforce development program manager at WTI, is coordinating the operations of the new grant.

This initiative lays the foundation for a more interconnected, resilient rail industry that supports economic growth and regional connectivity across Montana and the Northwest by equipping local talent with critical skills.

For more information, visitBigskyrail.orgor contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at 406.850.1592.

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY
The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a Montana state government subdivision and the state's largest transportation district. It comprises 18 member counties and ex officio members from three tribal nations, Amtrak, the Montana Department of Transportation, BNSF Railway, and the AFL-CIO. The BSPRA is committed to re-establishing safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and the Big Sky North Coast Corridor, extending from Seattle to Chicago (formerly known as the North Coast Hiawatha).

Kim E Whittemore
Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
+1 781-258-1116

BILLINGS, MT, UNITED STATES, August 13, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Today, the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) announced that the City of Helena has joined as a government partner. This marks a significant step in revitalizing passenger rail service to southern Montana and the Greater Northwest, stretching from Chicago to Seattle and Portland.

BSPRA, which now includes 19 member counties, three tribal nations, and several ex officio members, is working to revitalize the Big Sky North Coast Corridor. This route, formerly known as the North Coast Hiawatha, which Amtrak operated until 1979, would connect communities across the region and provide numerous economic and social benefits.

“We are thrilled to welcome Helena to the Authority,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “This partnership demonstrates the growing momentum behind restoring passenger rail service to southern Montana. People from all walks of life recognize the value of rail – not only for passenger travel but also for infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, and access to essential services."

Helena Mayor Wilmot Collins echoed this sentiment, highlighting the city's long history with rail service. "Restoring passenger rail would provide affordable, year-round transportation options, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and boost tourism and economic growth to Lewis and Clark County.” The City of Helena's letter of support for restoring passenger rail to southern Montana and beyond was sent to the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, Amit Bose, and is included herein.

BSPRA's vision extends beyond passenger travel. By restoring the Big Sky North Coast Corridor, the Authority aims to:
* Boost local economies
* Revitalize communities
* Connect travelers to the national rail network
* Provide a sustainable transportation alternative

For more information, visit Bigskyrail.org or contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at 406.850.1592. Learn more about the Government Partner Program here.

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a Montana state government subdivision and the state's largest transportation district. It comprises 19 member counties and ex officio members from three tribal nations, Amtrak, the Montana Department of Transportation, BNSF Railway, and the AFL-CIO. The BSPRA is committed to re-establishing safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana.

Kim E Whittemore
Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
+1 781-258-1116

BSPRA selects a team led by David Evans and Associates (DEA) to plan and design new passenger rail service on the former North Coast Hiawatha route.

BILLINGS, MT, UNITED STATES, July 30, 2024 Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) is excited to announce the selection of a team led by David Evans and Associates (DEA) and including Quandel Consultants (Quandel), KLJ Engineering (KLJ) and the Steer Group (STEER) for the pivotal role of planning and designing new passenger rail service on the former North Coast Hiawatha route, hereafter referred to as the Big Sky North Coast Corridor. This vital work will be funded through the Corridor Identification (Corridor ID) Program of the Federal Railroad Administration. BSPRA’s partnership with the DEA Team marks a significant milestone in expanding passenger rail service in the Greater Northwest Region from the Great Lakes to the Pacific Northwest.

DEA, a national leader in transportation planning, and its team partners were chosen following a competitive request for proposals (RFP) process to engage a top-tier consulting team to spearhead this transformative project. An initial $500,000 federal government award and a continuing commitment to millions of additional funds for detailed planning and design work underscore this initiative's national importance and potential.

The DEA team has deep roots in rail and other transportation projects throughout the Big Sky North Coast Corridor, spanning rural and tribal communities to the largest Metropolitan areas in the region. The team members have also engaged in developing or expanding every new or upgraded passenger rail line in the Great Northwest Region and Colorado: Amtrak Borealis, the Northern Lights Express, Colorado Front Range, and Amtrak Cascades.

The Big Sky North Coast Corridor stretches from Seattle and/or Portland to Chicago, traversing up to eight states, including southern Montana and North Dakota. It represents a landmark in U.S. rail system expansion and constitutes the only new long-distance route accepted into the Corridor ID program nationwide.

“This partnership with the DEA Team is a crucial step forward in our journey to revitalize and reintroduce the former North Coast Hiawatha service,” said Dave Strohmaier, Chairman of BSPRA. The DEA Team's expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects, geographic breadth of coverage, and deep bench of experience will prove invaluable as we develop a comprehensive service development plan.

The initial grant of $500,000 will be utilized to create a detailed scope of work for the service development plan, which is essential for moving this project from concept to reality.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has already pledged additional non-competitive funding through the Corridor ID Program for the actual planning and design work. That funding will enable the Authority, working with at least seven other states, their local communities, and Tribal governments in the region, to prepare a service development plan and conduct the necessary environmental analyses and detailed engineering to bring this new passenger rail service to the point of implementation.

“The ambitious goal of the Authority is to have a 21st Century passenger rail service designed over the coming years to enable the passenger service to operate by 2032 if Congress so chooses,” stated Dave Strohmaier, BSPRA Chair. He noted that key goals for the passenger service include on-time performance, twice-daily service in each direction, and the development of connecting transportation services to outlying communities and destinations within the route.

“We are thrilled to partner with Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority on this historic initiative,” said Dwight Schock, Transit and Rail Practice Leader at DEA. “Our team is committed to delivering a scope of work that meets or exceeds the federal requirements and strategic communications that will strengthen and broaden BSPRA’s already amazing outreach efforts to key interested parties.”

Bringing passenger rail service to the Big Sky North Coast Corridor will boost local economies, revitalize local and Tribal communities, enable travelers to connect, not simply to points on the route but also to the national rail network, and provide a sustainable transportation alternative across several states that operate when air service and vehicle travel are disrupted by hazardous weather or road conditions.

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY (BSPRA)
The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 19 member counties and ex-officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, BNSF Railway and the AFL-CIO. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 45 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha, and the BSPRA is working towards its revitalization.

For more information on the Big Sky North Coast Corridor project and progress updates, please visit Bigskyrail.org. For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

The Annual Conference takes place on June 7th at the Missoula Public Library

BILLINGS, MONTANA, US, May 30, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The award-winning Missoula Public Library is the backdrop for the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) Annual Meeting with the theme “Revitalizing Communities and Building Sustainable Economies” on June 7th. Preceded on June 6th by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Amtrak Long-Distance Service Study Meeting in Missoula, MT, passenger rail advocacy organizations, federal, state, local, and tribal officials, and industry experts will convene to discuss exciting updates about the North Coast Hiawatha route, hydrogen fuel cell technology, and the region's rail renaissance at the conference.

BSPRA is a state government subdivision and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana. It comprises 19 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. The passage of the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in late 2021 created the first opportunity in decades to expand and improve passenger rail access. No region of the country needs that expansion and improvement more than the Greater Northwest. BSPRA was poised to take action to pursue restoring and revitalizing passenger rail. Much progress has been made and will be shared at the conference.

Dave Strohmaier, Chairman of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, indicated that the Federal Railroad Administration’s long-distance study examined the potential to reopen discontinued routes or new ones of 750 miles or more. That study wraps up this summer and identifies the North Coast Hiawatha, connecting Chicago to Seattle through southern Montana and a north-south line to Billings from El Paso or Denver, as preferred. “This is a big deal for the state of Montana and something that has been over four decades in the making,” Strohmaier said. “In addition, the North Coast Hiawatha is the only new long-distance route in the Corridor Identification and Development Program, which is the FRA’s project development pipeline for intercity passenger rail projects. This, too, is a huge win for Montana,” he said, “and will connect urban and rural communities in the American West.”

A welcome reception takes place from 5 - 7 p.m. at the Residence Inn Missoula Downtown on Thursday, June 6th, following the FRA Working Group Meeting. The conference will commence at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, June 7th, and features FRA Deputy Administrator Jennifer Mitchell, Rail Passengers Association President & CEO Jim Mathews, Director of PNWER Regional Infrastructure Accelerator Bruce Agnew, and a panel discussion about hydrogen fuel cell technology. During our luncheon, the Founders Award will recognize the three legislators who crafted HB 541 during the 1993 Montana legislative session. This bill, signed into law, authorized the creation of regional rail authorities in Montana. Representative Linda Nelson introduced HB 541, and co-signers Senators Dennis Nathe and Mike Halligan were co-sponsors. Senator Nathe passed away in 1993, and his award will be given to his family posthumously.

The conference concludes with a banquet from 6 – 8:00 p.m. at the Payne Native American Center, University of Montana. Assistant Secretary for Tribal Affairs (USDOT) Arlando Teller will deliver the keynote address.

To learn more and register for the conference, visit https://www.bigskyrail.org/events. Virtual attendance is also available.

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY (BSPRA)
The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of the state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 19 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 45 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha, and the BSPRA is working towards its renaissance. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org; or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA), in its efforts to revitalize passenger rail service to southern Montana and beyond, reached another milestone after the Billings City Council recently voted in favor of joining the BSPRA as a municipal partner. The Authority boasts 20 member counties, in addition to three tribal nations, BNSF, Montana DOT and Amtrak as ex officio members.

Per the Montana law that allowed for BSPRA’s creation, only counties may join as voting members of the Authority. However the BSPRA is very pleased to welcome Billings to the table to assist in the effort to restore passenger rail service to the city and across the region.

“We are very pleased to welcome the City of Billings, marking yet another exciting step for the Authority. Montanans from all walks of life are uniting to see passenger rail service restored to southern Montana for the economic and social benefits it will bring to all communities – both urban and rural,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “Folks understand the value of being a part of the planning process for Montana rail services and that we are more than just passenger rail. We are infrastructure, we are ag shipping, transportation, tourism, and access to healthcare. We want everyone along this route to be part of the major planning underway, and hope others will get on board.”

“Billings was founded as a rail hub and played a leadership role in rail in Montana,” said Billings Mayor Bill Cole. “Our community and people want to be part of this process of restoring and bringing connectivity via passenger rail to Billings, Yellowstone County and the region.”

“I am excited the City of Billings is now a part of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and supporting its important work! The Authority has been an effective advocate for restoring passenger rail service to our fair community and even introducing a new route to Denver. Like myself, many residents in Billings want both the safety and convenience of rail travel to connect us to other cities in Montana and beyond, and we want to be a part of bringing this proposal to fruition, “ said Billings City Council Member Ed Gulick.

Attached is the City of Billings letter of support for the restoration of passenger rail to southern Montana and beyond sent to the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, Amit Bose.

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the BSPRA believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org; or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

BILLINGS, MT

The Federal Government will provide $500,000 in seed money to help kick-start construction of Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority’s (BSPRA) North Coast Hiawatha route revitalization between Chicago and Seattle/Portland and connecting communities like Fargo, Bismarck, Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula. Formerly known as the North Coast Hiawatha, and before that the North Coast Limited, the route existed from the 1890s through the late 1970s when cuts to Amtrak ended the service. According to the Federal Railroad Administration, BSPRA “would enter Step 1 of the program to develop a scope, schedule, and cost estimate for preparing, completing, or documenting its service development plan.”

BSPRA’s inclusion in this program also brings with it a commitment to additional major federal funds over the coming years as the project moves closer to reality. BSPRA Chairman, Dave Strohmaier, believes this project will transform the economy and quality of life in Montana more than any other single project in recent memory, and will serve to revitalize rural and tribal communities. It is important to note that this project is the only new long-distance route among the 69 Corridor ID routes announced today, and at 2,200 miles is by far the longest new route being funded.

Today’s announcement also addresses Amtrak's rail infrastructure in and around Malta, MT, along the Empire Builder route, which will soon see upgrades thanks to the $14.9 million newly secured for the project through the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program. BSPRA and Amtrak were co-applicants in securing these funds which reflects BSPRA’s commitment to maintaining a strong Empire Builder and efficient freight operations along Montana’s Hi-Line.

There are many to thank who have been instrumental in our achievements to date, including Senator Jon Tester who helped write and pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the 20 member counties of BSPRA, our 17 municipal partners, 3 tribal councils, BNSF, Montana DOT, and Amtrak. We have also been bolstered and supported by our major business partners and sponsors including Xplorer Maps, Clearwater Credit Union, Siemens, KLJ Engineering, and all the individual donors and citizen volunteers who tirelessly support our efforts. The Montana Healthcare Foundation, Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWR), and MSU Extension have been instrumental collaborators and advocates. Strohmaier noted, “We are grateful for the broad community support from within Montana and beyond, which helped ensure that the North Coast Hiawatha would be selected for development by the Federal Railroad Administration.”

As part of the Corridor ID study efforts, BSPRA will be inviting state, local, and tribal governments in Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon to consult in the planning process for the route. BSPRA will also welcome new member counties and municipal partners who will want to be involved in the decision-making. More announcements will be forthcoming over the next week.

“It should be clear from looking at both the Corridor ID selections and Federal-State Partnership beneficiaries that the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is making a significant impact in a VERY short time. The developments going on across the country are mostly in states that touch oceans or are among the 15 largest states. We are thrilled to represent the Greater Northwest, which has been underserved by public transportation for far too long,” said Chairman Strohmaier. “It’s about time that the rural American West is reflected in federal passenger rail investments.”

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of the state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the BSPRA believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org; or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau awarded the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) a grant to continue advancing infrastructure development through its five-state Regional Infrastructure Accelerator (RIA) and will use the grant funding to deliver value in Alaska, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

Specifically, BSPRA, as a grant sub-recipient, will work with PNWER RIA on the following projects:

· Research feasibility and economic case for renewing Amtrak small parcel delivery service as an economic driver for rural and tribal communities along the Great Northern (Empire Builder) and North Coast Hiawatha (southern Montana) corridors.

· Analyze track along the Amtrak Empire Builder corridor to identify small to medium track improvement projects that—if bundled—would co-benefit freight and passenger rail service. Grade separation projects and opportunities for transit-oriented development near passenger rail stations are major areas of focus.

· Analyze track from Sandpoint, ID, to Glendive, MT, along proposed Amtrak North Coast Hiawatha route to identify small to medium track improvement projects for enhanced freight and passenger rail service and identify funding opportunities that promote safety and/or economic development opportunities for rural communities and tribal nations.

“These funds will further our work both in southern Montana and also along the Empire Builder route, to the benefit of both freight and passenger operations,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “This is a great example of how working together at a regional scale, with the sweat equity and financial support of partners, is moving this train down the tracks.”

“The RIA grant will continue to allow the PNWER Accelerator to leverage public and private talent and financial resources to fast track key transportation projects in five states,” noted PNWER RIA Director Bruce Agnew. “We look forward to supporting the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority.”

ABOUT PNWER

The Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) is a public/private non-profit organization created by statute in 1991. Member jurisdictions include Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, and Washington, and the Canadian provinces and territories of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, the Northwest Territories, and Yukon. PNWER's mission is to increase the economic well-being and quality of life for all citizens of the region; identify and promote "models of success; and serve as a conduit to exchange information. For more information on PNWER, visit www.pnwer.org.

ABOUT PNWER RIA

Initiated in 2021, the PNWER RIA serves as a convener for transportation projects in the region, specifically multi-state and multi-jurisdictional initiatives with multi-modal and region-wide benefits. Funded through U.S. DOT’s Build America Bureau, the PNWER RIA helps identify Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) and federal financing opportunities to accelerate the delivery of transportation projects with region-wide benefits that ease supply chain disruptions, reduce transportation-related pollution, and increase economic and environmental justice, especially for historically underserved communities. For more information, visit www.pnwer.org/ria.

ABOUT THE BIG SKY PASSENGER RAIL AUTHORITY (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org; or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

###

This project and its findings are BSPRA’s inaugural effort to formally and directly gather important public knowledge and judgements on passenger rail as a social determinant of health in rural and tribal areas. The project provides a baseline understanding of benefits and issues related to reestablishing passenger rail in southern Montana and creates a template for future public engagement related to long-distance passenger rail service. BSPRA was supported by Montana State University Extension in this outreach effort and analysis.

Tribal nations represented in the project included the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Crow Tribe, and Northern Cheyenne Tribe. Non-tribal rural communities included Paradise (Sanders County), Forsyth (Rosebud County), and Glendive (Dawson County). Limited transportation options in these and surrounding communities restrict access to social and economic opportunities, which adversely impact health outcomes.

This report is part of BSPRA’s continuing efforts to restore Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha (NCH) route stretching from Chicago to Seattle/Portland via southern Montana and North Dakota, which will provide vital economic and social benefits to rural and tribal communities and markedly advance transportation equity. BSPRA is hopeful that the Federal Railroad Administration will recommend the renewal of service on the NCH line to Congress early next year and that this report will support that recommendation.

Common themes related to the benefits of passenger rail identified during the project include:

• Increased access to health care/medical services, including the ability to see providers in-person vs. utilizing tele-health resources; this was considered particularly advantageous for elderly individuals and veterans.

• Increased access to employment/employment opportunities and education, including the ability for college students to get to/from various educational facilities and come home more frequently, less expensively and more safely.

• Safer, more consistent, and predictable transportation, especially in the winter months during which time many people are more isolated because of hazardous driving conditions and major highway closures – significantly reducing traffic deaths and injuries.

• Increased ability to attend important family and community events, most predominantly sporting events/tournaments which often take place significant distances from home communities. This also included increased safety for high school/college teams traveling for games/tournaments.

• Opportunities for economic development, including bringing residents (in addition to tourists) from the rural communities to urban centers and bringing people from the urban centers to the rural communities; connecting regions and the state and visitors from around the nation and world.

• Reduction of greenhouse gases and carbon emissions by substituting more efficient rail travel for individual vehicle use.

“We’re extremely grateful for the generous support of the Montana Healthcare Foundation, which made this project possible,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “There is a direct correlation between healthy communities and individuals and robust transportation options, like passenger rail. This was borne out in community after community that we visited as a part of our engagement process.”

The goal of the process was to explore how connectivity to not just Montana communities, but to the larger national rail network might increase national and global visitors to rural and tribal Montana and improve the ability of rural and tribal Montanans to access the rest of the nation, further increasing the economic and social well-being of impacted communities. This extends beyond renewal of the NCH route to also embrace other potential connections to Denver or Salt Lake City, and beyond.

Additionally, direct public engagement in multiple venues, locations, and formats during the course of this project allowed BSPRA to assess the level of local support, gauge interest, and determine if there were any identified local barriers that should be considered moving forward. BSPRA and its member and partner communities are already building upon this foundation to incorporate lessons learned and expand public engagement activities. This project was supported by a $25,000 grant from the Montana Healthcare Foundation.

About the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of the state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org and read the entire public engagement report at bigskyrail/public- engagement-report.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org; or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

Rail advocates, federal, state, local, and tribal officials, host railroads convene to revitalize passenger rail service in Southern Montana and beyond.

BILLINGS, MT, UNITED STATES, August 3, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ -- The iconic Hotel Finlen in uptown Butte, Montana will serve as the backdrop for the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority’s (BSPRA) Third Annual Conference on Wednesday, August 9th. Located in the heart of America’s second largest historic district, passenger rail advocates from across the state and region will join federal, state, local, and tribal officials, representatives of host railroads and rail infrastructure experts focused on restoration, expansion, and enhancement of passenger rail service in Southern Montana and beyond. All are welcome and the proceedings will be live-streamed.

The passage of the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) has created the first opportunity in decades to expand and improve passenger rail access and no region of the country is in more need than the Greater Northwest. Now is the time for rail advocates and policymakers to ensure that the “second rail revolution” doesn’t pass us by.

“It is only through regional collaboration and coordination with the host railroads and policymakers that we will achieve our goal of expanding and improving passenger rail service both here in Montana and throughout the region,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “And the presence at our conference of senior officials from the Federal Railroad Administration, Amtrak, Surface Transportation Board, other agencies, and host railroads shows that our efforts and voices are being taken very seriously.”

The conference will commence Wednesday with Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose and his team providing an update on the Amtrak Daily Long Distance Survey Study and what it means. The BSPRA monthly board meeting will take place midday and conclude with an evening gala dinner. We hope you can join us. To register, visit BSPRA Annual Conference.

About the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org; or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

(Billings, MT) On Wednesday, May 24, the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) will kick off a series of six rural and tribal community engagement meetings across Montana, gathering public input on restoration of passenger rail service to the southern part of the state. This project is supported by a $25,000 grant from the Montana Healthcare Foundation. See www.bigskyrail.org/events for full details on the meetings.

Tribal nations represented in the project include the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Crow Tribe, and Northern Cheyenne Tribe. Non-tribal rural communities involved in the project include Paradise (Sanders County), Forsyth (Rosebud County), and Glendive (Dawson County). Limited transportation options in these and surrounding communities restrict access to social and economic opportunities, which adversely impacts health outcomes. The project will document benefits to these communities from passenger rail service and will be supported by Montana State University Extension.

The report generated from the project is part of BSPRA’s continuing efforts to restore Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha (NCH) route stretching from Chicago to Seattle/Portland via southern Montana, which will provide vital economic and social benefits to rural and tribal communities and markedly advance transportation equity. BSPRA hopes that the Federal Railroad Administration will recommend the renewal of service on the NCH line to Congress this November as an outcome of the Amtrak Daily Long-Distance Service Study, which is currently underway.

“We want to hear the voices of those who will benefit most from renewed passenger rail service in southern Montana,” says BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “We’re extremely grateful to the Montana Healthcare Foundation for recognizing transportation as a social determinant of health and investing in this critical community outreach project.” According to Strohmaier, “the findings of these six meetings will directly address two of the review criteria for the FRA long distance study: advancing the economic and social well-being of rural areas of the United States and reflecting public engagement and local and regional support for restored passenger rail service.”

This Montana Healthcare Foundation-funded project will break new ground in Montana by focusing on how a rail transportation system can reduce a host of serious health disparities in the state including chronic conditions, accidents, and the absence of care.

About Montana Healthcare Foundation

The Montana Healthcare Foundation makes strategic investments to improve the health and well being of all Montanans. Created in 2013, MHCF has more than $200 million in assets making it Montana’s largest health-focused, private foundation. MHCF contributes to a measurably healthier state by supporting access to quality and affordable health services, conducting evidence-driven research and analysis, and addressing the upstream influences on health and illness. For more information, visit mthcf.org.

About Montana State University Extension

Montana State University Extension is a statewide educational outreach network that applies unbiased, research-based university resources to practical needs identified by the people of Montana in their home communities.

About the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at 406.529.5580 or dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org; or BSPRA Executive Director Jess Peterson at jess@wssdc.com or by phone at 406.850.1592.

(Billings, Mont.) The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) strongly supports Montana Senator Jon Tester’s decision to block the White House’s slate of nominees for the Amtrak Board of Directors, urging President Joe Biden to reconsider nominating potential Board members from Western states.

Five of the six White House nominees to the Amtrak board come from the Northeast Corridor communities, despite the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s explicit requirement that new Amtrak Board members represent the breadth of Amtrak’s served communities and stakeholders, especially those in rural America. In fact, none of the six nominees come from a state west of the Mississippi River, leaving half of the country without representation at the highest levels of Amtrak.

“For too long the Amtrak leadership has come from coastal cities. Rural America, dependent on long-distance passenger rail for its transportation needs, has been left without a seat at the table,” said Dave Strohmaier, BSPRA Chairman and Missoula County Commissioner. “We deserve a voice and appreciate Senator Tester’s leadership in ensuring that Montana and the West are seen and heard.”

Amtrak needs to strengthen and expand its services and relationships in many parts of the country but especially in rural areas and communities long denied the benefits of passenger rail. It is critical that people in places like Montana have a voice at the highest levels of Amtrak to ensure that we are not overlooked. One of Senator Tester’s priorities in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – now known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – was to make sure Amtrak gets the support it needs to bring quality passenger rail service to the entire country and not just the Northeast Corridor. That also requires that the Amtrak Board of Directors reflect the nation’s geographic diversity and as such, the IIJA mandates that no more than four members of the Amtrak Board of Directors come from the Northeast Corridor.

Montana and the Greater Northwest are among the most underserved regions of the country by passenger rail, and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and our colleagues are focused on the restoration of passenger rail routes across the region. This will provide greater economic opportunity and news jobs for urban, rural and tribal communities as well as provide transportation equity for communities across the region, for many of whom the nearest commercial airport is hundreds of miles away.

About the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

For questions or interview requests, please contact BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier at dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org or by phone at 406-852-4765.

(Billings, Mont.) The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $25,000 grant by the Montana Healthcare Foundation to conduct passenger rail community engagement in three rural and three tribal communities in southern Montana. Tribal nations include the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Crow Tribe, and Northern Cheyenne Tribe. Non-tribal rural communities involved in the project include Paradise (Sanders County), Forsyth (Rosebud County), and Glendive (Dawson County). Limited transportation options in these and surrounding communities restrict access to social and economic opportunities, which adversely impacts health outcomes. The project will document benefits to these communities from passenger rail service and will be supported by Montana State University Extension.

The report generated from the project is part of BSPRA’s continuing efforts to restore Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha (NCH) route stretching from Chicago to Seattle/Portland via southern Montana, which will provide vital economic and social benefits to rural and tribal communities and markedly advance transportation equity. BSPRA hopes that the Federal Railroad Administration will recommend the renewal of service on the NCH line to Congress this November as an outcome of the Amtrak Daily Long-Distance Service Study, which is currently underway. 

“We want to hear the voices of those who will benefit most from renewed passenger rail service in southern Montana,” says BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “To that end, we’re grateful for the Montana Healthcare Foundation’s recognition of transportation as a social determinant of health and for their investment in this critical community outreach project.” According to Strohmaier, “the findings of these six meetings will directly address two of the review criteria for the FRA long-distance study: advancing the economic and social well-being of rural areas of the United States, and reflecting public engagement and local and regional support for restored passenger rail service.”

This Montana Healthcare Foundation-funded project will break new ground in Montana by focusing on how a rail transportation system can reduce a host of serious health disparities in the state including chronic conditions, accidents, and the absence of care.

About Montana Healthcare Foundation

The Montana Healthcare Foundation makes strategic investments to improve the health and well-being of all Montanans. Created in 2013, MHCF has more than $200 million in assets making it Montana’s largest health-focused, private foundation. MHCF contributes to a measurably healthier state by supporting access to quality and affordable health services, conducting evidence-driven research and analysis, and addressing the upstream influences on health and illness. For more information, visit mthcf.org.

About Montana State University Extension 

Montana State University Extension is a statewide educational outreach network that applies unbiased, research-based university resources to practical needs identified by the people of Montana in their home communities.

About the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA)

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is a subdivision of state government and the largest transportation district in Montana. It was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and comprises 20 member counties and ex officio membership of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Crow, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway. Passenger rail service through southern Montana ended 43 years ago with the loss of Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority believes that together we can bring it back. Learn more at bigskyrail.org.

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) is pleased to announce the submission of a Corridor ID Program proposal to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). According to the FRA, “The Corridor ID Program is intended to become the primary means for directing Federal financial support and technical assistance toward the development of proposals for new or improved intercity passenger rail services throughout the United States.” BSPRA and its supporters hope the North Coast Hiawatha (NCH) corridor from Chicago to Seattle/Portland through southern Montana will be one of the routes chosen.

The North Coast Hiawatha will transform the economy of the Greater Northwest region, revitalizing rural communities and tribal nations, and providing access for underserved citizens to health care, education, other services, and civic resources often unreachable in winter when highways become unreliable or hazardous. The route will serve as a key catalyst for creating or renewing other passenger rail routes in the American West and Canada and will help awaken a 21st century rail renaissance in western North America.

“We’re extremely pleased to submit this Corridor ID Program proposal to the FRA and are grateful for the excellent technical support of Quandel Consultants and KLJ Engineering,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. The North Coast Hiawatha route is already under analysis as part of the FRA’s Amtrak Daily LongDistance Service Study. The Corridor ID Program will work hand in glove with that study to complete a service development plan and preliminary engineering—precursors to resuming passenger rail service through southern Montana and beyond. According to Strohmaier, “this is yet another major accomplishment of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. As evidence of regional and national interest in our proposal, we’re pleased to have received letters of support including BNSF Railway, Amtrak, five state DOTs, U.S. senators from North Dakota and Montana, and municipalities.”

Created under the 2021 bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Corridor ID Program "will guide the development of new and enhanced intercity passenger rail services that will help bolster economic growth throughout the country," according to the FRA. For each corridor selected, the FRA will award an initial grant of $500,000 for preliminary planning toward the creation of a service development plan.

Melanie Johnson, Senior Director of Planning for Quandel Consultants, indicated that Quandel Consultants has been excited for the opportunity to partner with the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority in developing its Corridor ID proposal. “This effort is the gateway and initial step toward future passenger rail service on the former North Coast Hiawatha route connecting Chicago to Seattle while providing service to cities and communities in Montana and North Dakota that have been without passenger rail for over 40 years. We appreciate the support of KLJ Engineering in drafting this submission as well.”

All Aboard Montana
bigskyrail.org

BSPRA Member Counties:

Big Horn
Broadwater
Butte-Silver Bow
Carbon
Custer
Dawson
Gallatin
Granite
Jefferson
Lake
Mineral
Missoula
Park
Powell
Prairie
Rosebud
Sanders
Stillwater
Treasure
Wibaux

Ex Officio Members

Confederated Salish & Kootenai
Tribes
Crow Tribe
Northern Cheyenne Tribe
Amtrak
BNSF Railway
Montana Department of
Transportation

Passenger Rail Service through Southern Montana ended 42 years ago. Together, we can bring it back.

bigskyrail.org

For more information about the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and its Corridor ID Program proposal, please contact:

Dave Strohmaier

Chairman, Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority

dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org or 406.529.5580

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA), in its efforts to restore passenger rail service to southern Montana and beyond, reached another milestone Tuesday after the Treasure County Commissioners unanimously voted to join the BSPRA. The BSPRA now boasts 20 member counties in addition to three tribal nations, forming a contiguous body from the North Dakota border to the Idaho border.

“We are very pleased to welcome Treasure County into the BSPRA and this marks yet another exciting step for the Authority. With 20 member counties, the BSPRA now counts a full one-third of Montana’s counties as members,” said BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “The unanimous vote by the Treasure County Commission only further affirms what we already know. From the quiet, bucolic streets of Hysham, Forsyth, and Terry to the bustling, urban hearts of Bozeman, Butte, and Missoula, Montanans from all walks of life are uniting to see passenger rail service restored to southern Montana for the economic and social benefits it will bring to all communities – both urban and rural.”

Six counties are still eligible to vote favorably to join the BSPRA: Beaverhead, Deer Lodge, Lewis & Clark, Madison, Sweet Grass and Yellowstone. With the BSPRA gaining momentum and growing in stature, the Authority hopes that before the end of 2023 most, if not all, of those remaining counties will decide to join.

The members of the BSPRA are working towards delivering a transformational infrastructure project for Montana. One that will not only bring all the economic and social benefits of passenger rail service, but will also improve rail safety and benefit freight operations which will in turn benefit agriculture and industry.

According to an analysis performed for the BSPRA by the Rail Passengers Association in 2021, restoration of passenger rail service through southern Montana is estimated to generate an additional $270 million in annual economic output across the Northwest and carry 426,000 passengers per year at start-up. The existing Empire Builder line currently generates $595 million in economic output across the seven states it serves, with $101.5 million in annual economic benefit to Montana alone.

The historic Northern Hotel in downtown Billings, Montana, will serve as the backdrop for the first Greater Northwest Passenger Rail Summit on Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 22-23. Passenger rail advocacy organizations from across the Northwest will join federal, state, local, and tribal officials, representatives of host railroads and rail infrastructure experts to educate, innovate and coordinate for the restoration, expansion and enhancement of passenger rail service.

The passage in late 2021 of the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) has created the first opportunity in decades to expand and improve passenger rail access and no region of the country is in more need of that expansion and improvement than the Greater Northwest.

Now is the time for rail advocates and policymakers from across the region to start coordinating to ensure the “second rail revolution” doesn’t pass us by.

“This summit represents the inaugural effort to bring passenger rail advocates and enthusiasts from across the Greater Northwest together in one place to restore and expand our passenger rail network across the region,” said David Strohmaier, chairman of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, the summit host. “It is only through regional collaboration and coordination with the host railroads and policymakers that we will achieve our goal of expanding and improving passenger rail service both here in Montana and throughout the region. And the presence at this summit of senior officials from the Federal Railroad Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, other agencies, and host railroads shows that our efforts and voices are being taken very seriously.”

The summit will open Monday with a speech by FRA Administrator Amit Bose and close Tuesday night with a gala dinner at the historic Billings Depot, where Virginia Rail Policy Institute President, Co-Chair of Virginians for HighSpeed Rail, and newly elected Rail Passengers Association Board Chair Meredith Richards will deliver the keynote address. The summit agenda features moderated panel discussions where federal, local, state, and tribal officials, host railroad representatives, engineering experts, and passenger rail advocates will discuss everything from the economic and social benefits to communities and tribal nations to the environmental benefits of building a bigger, better passenger rail network for our region and country.

To view a complete schedule and learn more about the summit, visit the website at www.gnwprs.org, or contact BSPRA Vice Chairman Jason Stuart at jstuart@bigskyrail.org or 406-852-4765. BSPRA Chairman Dave Strohmaier is also available for interviews at dstrohmaier@bigskyrail.org or 406-852-4765.

MISSOULA, MT, UNITED STATES, August 18, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Xplorer Maps (XM) journey began more than a decade ago with two brothers—a talented, globe-trotting artist and an entrepreneurial geography buff—who had a mission to create hand-drawn, antique-style maps of national parks and travel destinations that would make lasting and meaningful connections between people and place worldwide.

But Chris and Greg Robitaille were looking for more. The family-owned business wanted to form partnerships with organizations whose mission is aligned with connecting people and place and where their fine art lends itself naturally. Xplorer Maps dedicates at least one of the six maps it releases each year to working and collaborating with a Montana non-profit. And the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) was fortunate for its chance encounter at the Missoula-Made Fair which led to its selection.

BSPRA's Dan Bucks attended the Fair in December. “Dan stumbled upon our booth and started speaking with my wife, Julie, who immediately knew I would want to meet him, " said owner Greg Robitaille. "I'm always interested in unique Montana-based stories and Julie knows a compelling story when she hears one! I quickly learned how passionate and earnest Dan was in his enthusiasm for rail, the project... and quite frankly, Xplorer Maps. The map is the result of a rewarding collaboration; combining original artwork, unique story-telling, and philanthropy with a shared vision for passenger rail in the greater northwest."

As creators of the world’s finest hand-drawn maps, Xplorer's artistic process usually takes 12-18 months from “concept to completion”. “Never before has XM turned a discussion into a map in this short of a time frame, seven months. Actual artwork takes about six weeks once everything has been decided upon; scale, scope, design, layout,” explained Chris Robitaille. XM and BSPRA spent months massaging content; discussing details; and making sure the contents for the rail map were exactly what the Authority wanted.

“We believe that this fine art piece beautifully reflects the great expanse and significance of the greater northwest and will generate public interest in expanding passenger rail in Southern Montana, the greater northwest and beyond. We are so grateful for the generosity of XM, Chris and Greg Robitaille" says Dave Strohmaier,Chairman of the BSPRA.

The original artwork has been donated for the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority auction runs through August 23rd at the Greater Northwest Passenger Rail Summit. For details on the auction and bidding visit: https://e.givesmart.com/events/rS9/

Greater Northwest Passenger Rail map can be viewed here: https://e.givesmart.com/events/rS9/i/_All/io9Z/

Insert image here

Greater Northwest Rail Original Artwork. Signed by artist Chris Robitaille.

This collaborative partnership with the Big Sky Rail Passenger Authority is a "first of its kind" for Xplorer Maps. The signed original artwork was rendered using the finest pen and ink brushes and finished with multiple watercolor washes layered throughout the process. From conception to completion, the artwork took approximately 3-4 months. Every line, letter, icon, and detail is drawn entirely by hand and is unique and original to this new map.

Framed

Size: 24x18

Museum Glass

Shipping Included

About Xplorer Maps: Xplorer Maps is a registered Made in Montana business that uses exclusively 100% post-consumer content paper produced with 100% green energy and chlorine-free soy-based inks. Since they began 10 years ago, Xplorer Maps has donated more than $100,000 to 37 different organizations dedicated to the education and conservation of our Public Lands. To commemorate their 10th year of business in Montana, they are supporting efforts to restore passenger rail through the auction of the “Greater Northwest Passenger Rail” map. Learn more at www.xplorermaps.com.

About Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA): Passenger Rail Service through Southern Montana ended 42 years ago and Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority believes that together, we can bring it back. The Authority was formed to re-establish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service across southern Montana and is comprised of 18 member counties along what is known as the North Coast Hiawatha Route and also includes three tribal councils, Amtrak, Montana Department of Transportation and BNSF Railway. Learn more at https://www.bigskyrail.org.

BSPRA is serving as host of the inaugural Greater Northwest Passenger Rail Summit, Billings, MT, August 22-23, 2022. https://gnwprs.org/

Former Montanans David Simmons and his brother, Academy Award-winning actor J.K. Simmons, have recorded a song and video titled “All Aboard Montana” supporting the restoration of the former North Coast Hiawatha route through southern Montana and the efforts of the BSPRA.

J.K. and David both graduated from the University of Montana, where their father, Donald Simmons, was the longtime director ofthe UM School of Music.“We are thrilled to present this video to the publicfor the first time,” said BSPRA chairman David Strohmaier. “David Simmons is a gifted musician and an early supporter of our efforts, and of course just about everyone knows who J.K. is. Millions of people around the world are watching him on the big screen right now in the latest ‘Spider-Man’ film. We are so pleased and grateful that David and J.K. took the time to record this for us and express their support for our efforts, andwe are certain their endorsement will help us build even more excitement around our push to restore passenger rail service to southern Montana.

The video will debut shortly after the beginning of Wednesday’s BSPRA board meeting.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yL4hAW94WZg

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators from the Greater Northwest region today delivered a letter to Federal Railroad Administration Deputy Administrator Amit Bose calling on the FRA and the U.S. Department of Transportation to establish a Greater Northwest Working Group for the purpose of working towards the restoration and enhancement of passenger rail service across the region.

Led by Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT), the letter was co-signed by Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Sen. John Hoeven (R-ND), Sen. James Risch (R-ID), Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR), Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT).

“The investments in Montana’s infrastructure that we secured in the bipartisan infrastructure law will be a boon for the Treasure State’s economy, and we’ve got to make sure they’re fully deployed,” Tester said. “That’s why this study is so important — restoring some of our long-distance passenger rail routes has broad bipartisan support and could have a positive impact across our state.”

The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, a collection of 17 counties which is leading the effort for the restoration of passenger rail service through southern Montana, lauded the senators’ letter and their efforts.

“The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is delighted to see strong bipartisan support for taking concrete steps to expand long-distance passenger rail service in the northern Rockies and Pacific Northwest,” said BSPRA Chairman David Strohmaier. “The eight U.S. senators who signed the letter to FRA Deputy Administrator Bose have shown the political will to take a hard look at restoring the North Coast Hiawatha and, potentially, other routes in the region. Creation of a Greater Northwest Working Group is a key step toward that goal, and we applaud the courage of these senators to leverage the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to this end.”

Section 22214 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, an amendment to the bill sponsored by Sen. Tester and Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS), directs the FRA and USDOT to conduct a study of discontinued former long-distance passenger rail routes, like the former North Coast Hiawatha route that serviced southern Montana and North Dakota and the former Pioneer route that ran from Denver to Seattle and servicing Salt Lake City and Boise, ID. The section also authorizes USDOT to create new rail working groups to help facilitate and provide direction to those studies.

As the Greater Northwest is among the most underserved regions of the country by passenger rail, it is the hope of the letter cosigners that the establishment of a federally authorized rail working group for the region will help facilitate the restoration of discontinued passenger rail routes across the region. This will provide greater economic opportunity and new jobs for urban, rural and tribal communities as well as provide transportation equity for communities across the region, for many of whom the nearest commercial airport is hundreds of miles away.