Rail Authority asks county for support

The Sanders County Commissioners held a public meeting last Thursday to discuss a proposed contribution from Sanders County to the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. Earlier this month it was announced that 12 Montana counties, including Sanders County, have officially founded the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority to advocate for the return of passenger rail service across southern Montana.

Jerry McDonald, an appointee to Big Sky Passenger Rail, approached the commissioners at the public meeting and asked for a commitment on the county’s end for a monetary pledge, as funding is needed to facilitate the project moving forward. McDonald said the first of the board meetings is set to begin at the start of the new year, and right now the Rail Authority is looking to the participating counties for start up capital. “I’m here to ask the county to make a pledge for funding, or to allocate some county resources,” McDonald said.

When questioned how much, McDonald replied, “Missoula County, Bozeman and Gallatin all pledged to contribute $10,000.” While there is no set amount the Rail Authority is requesting, McDonald continued, “obviously, we are a much more reduced county compared to Missoula.” Commissioner Tony Cox said, “we would benefit from a passenger rail service someday. It’s worth a conversation.”

When the project began, rumors circulated as to how well a passenger rail service would get along and co-exist with other companies who also use the tracks, such as Montana Rail Link (MRL). Commissioner Glen Magera asked McDonald if MRL is on board with the idea of a passenger rail service going through southern Montana. “If all the major players are on board, then I can think about contributing,” Magera said. Other concerns raised at the meeting included a needed proposal on which way the trains would run, and if the tracks are in condition to support passenger transportation.

While the commissioners recognize the potential for passenger rail service through Sanders County, they say the window is open if there is enough of a precedent for the county. The board agrees the county wants to do their part to contribute, and a pledge amount can be made if conditions are met, such as a stop in a town somewhere in the county.

As an appointee to the Rail Authority, McDonald said he would report back once more details have been planned.