The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority says it submitted its rural and tribal public feedback report to the Federal Railroad Administration.
The report aims to provide a baseline understanding of the potential benefits and issues related to re-establishing passenger rails in southern Montana.
Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority members want to see the North Coast Hiawatha route restored.
Members say the themes identified during the study include:
- Increased access to in-person health care and medical services, especially for veterans and senior citizens
- Increased employment and education for commuters.
- Safer and more predictable transportation during winter, among other things.
A total of 20 Montana counties and three Tribal governments are participating in the rail authority.
