The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority’s Progress on the Corridor ID Program: Advancing Rail Connectivity Across Rural Communities
The following is a guest blog authored by our subrecipient Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority.
As the demand for expanded rail services continues to grow in the United States, the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) is making significant strides in revitalizing the once-legendary North Coast Hiawatha route through its participation in the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Corridor ID Program. With a $500,000 Corridor ID grant, BSPRA is spearheading efforts to restore this vital passenger rail link, connecting rural and urban communities from Montana to the Midwest, fostering economic growth and providing much-needed transportation options in the region.
A Vision for Connectivity
Map of the Big Sky North Coast Corridor
At the heart of BSPRA’s mission is the belief that passenger rail is not just a means of transportation but a catalyst for economic revitalization, equitable access, and social connectivity. The Big Sky North Coast Corridor, previously known as the North Coast Hiawatha route and discontinued in 1979, served as a vital connection for rural towns across Montana, Idaho, and beyond. Its absence left many communities without reliable transportation links, limiting economic opportunities and isolating residents.
Through the Corridor ID Program, BSPRA is working with eight states to assess infrastructure needs, identify service gaps, and develop a robust service development plan (SDP). This effort is not just about restoring a route; it's about enhancing the quality of life for rural residents and providing a sustainable transportation option that reduces environmental impacts and improves mobility.
Progress and Community Engagement
Since receiving the Corridor ID grant, BSPRA has been actively collaborating with stakeholders, including state and local governments, transportation authorities, and community organizations, to gather input and ensure that the restored route will serve the needs of all residents. Public meetings and outreach efforts have been critical in shaping the vision for the Big Sky North Coast Corridor as community feedback continues to guide the development of the SDP.
A unique aspect of this project is its emphasis on rural rail storytelling. Many of the towns along the proposed route have rich histories with passenger rail; for some, the return of the Big Sky North Coast Corridor represents the return of a lifeline. Stories of past experiences and future hopes are being gathered, reminding us that passenger rail is about moving people and reconnecting communities and reawakening economic potential.
The Greater Northwest Rail Summit: A Collaborative Effort
On October 8-9, BSPRA will be prominent at the Greater Northwest Rail Summit in Spokane, Washington. This event, co-hosted by PNWER RIA, will bring together key stakeholders from across the region to discuss the future of freight and passenger rail and its role in fostering sustainable transportation, economic growth, and equity for rural communities.
BSPRA’s participation in the summit will highlight the progress made on the Corridor ID initiative. It will also be an opportunity to share updates, gather feedback, and solidify partnerships that will be critical to advancing the project.
Some of the key topics BSPRA will discuss at the summit include:
Corridor ID Grant Progress: Insights into the ongoing work with the FRA and partner states to evaluate the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of restoring the Big Sky North Coast Corridor.
Infrastructure Needs: Identifying and addressing the infrastructure challenges that must be overcome to ensure a reliable and efficient service.
Rural Connectivity: How the restoration of the Big Sky North Coast Corridor will provide critical transportation access to underserved rural communities.
Economic and Social Impact: The expected benefits of the project include job creation, tourism growth, and improved access to education, healthcare, and other services for rural residents.
The summit will bring together federal, state, and local policymakers, transportation experts, and advocates to discuss how to make enhanced passenger and freight rail a reality in the Greater Northwest.
Learn more and register at www.nwsummit.org.
Looking Ahead
BSPRA’s work on the Corridor ID initiative is just the beginning. As momentum builds and public support grows, the future of passenger rail in Montana and the surrounding states looks brighter. BSPRA's efforts are not just about restoring a long-lost route; they are about laying the foundation for a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous future for the region.
The Greater Northwest Rail Summit promises to be a milestone event for BSPRA and its partners. By working together, we can ensure that the Big Sky North Coast Corridor again serves as a vital link for rural communities, helping bridge the gap between opportunity and access.
