BSPRA INAUGURAL NEWSLETTER January 2023 |
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Dear Passenger Rail Friend, Thank you for your interest in the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and restoring passenger rail to Southern Montana. We are excited to launch our first quarterly newsletter bringing you regional passenger rail news, and organizational updates. |
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Together, we can bring it back!
Today, more than 2,000 miles from the Great Lake to the Pacific and 800 miles from Great Falls to Denver no longer have access to passenger rail service. It’s time to provide passenger rail service to all of America. The Benefits of Passenger Rail: -
A restored passenger rail line will create jobs
- Generate $271 million in benefits a year
- Provide affordable, safe, transportation year-round for healthcare, education, commerce, and tourism
- Provide upgrades to current rail lines
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Federal Railroad Administration to Big Sky Passenger Rail: Stay Engaged as
Study Moves Forward |
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The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is pushing to ensure the old North Coast Hiawatha is included in November when the Federal Railroad Administration submits its final Amtrak Daily Long Distance Service Study to Congress. Representatives of Senators Jon Tester and Steve Daines joined this week's meeting between the Montana rail authority and the FRA.
“The FRA believes that the long-distance service study can serve as a common long-term vision for long-distance passenger rail service...It's to provide a strategy for Amtrak and other key stakeholders to implement and coordinate and develop long-distance routes.” |
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Amtrak train passes in front of the Big Mountain Ski Resort in Northern Montana. HEATH KORVOLA VIA GETTY IMAGES |
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In a Rural Corner of the West, a Local Level Push to Revive Passenger Rail |
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"Trains are economic lifelines" said Jason Stuart, the vice chair of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, and the head of an economic development agency in eastern Montana. "There’s a huge portion of this country that is really underserved.”
“My goal is that within the next six years, we'll see passenger rail service in Southern Montana and I think we're well poised to do so,” said Chairman Dave Strohmaier. “One year from now, there will be recommendations to Congress by the U.S. Department of Transportation. We'll do everything in our power to ensure the restored North Coast Hiawatha route is in the top route restoration recommendations.” |
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New Passenger Rail Enjoys Bipartisan Senate Support |
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A group of U.S. Senators from the Greater Northwest region urged the Federal Railroad Administration to create a working group that will study restoring long-distance passenger rail lines in the region. The Senators understand the economic benefits of passenger rail. 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 Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) is a broad partnership united by the benefits of passenger rail. |
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Already nineteen counties—large and small, urban and rural—along with towns, cities, businesses, Tribal officials, and local leaders have joined the effort to bring back passenger rail to our region. Amtrak, Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) and Montana Department of Transportation are ex-officio members as well. We’re growing support for expanding passenger rail in Montana that creates jobs, connects communities, and improves our quality of life. |
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Philipsburg Brewing Co. and BSPRA team up for Pint Night |
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The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) has been out in the Community engaging with Montanans at conferences, commissioner meetings and even at PINT NIGHTS! Here are some photos from a well attended and lively Pint Night at Philipsburg Brewing Company this winter. Thanks to the efforts of our Granite County Director, Elena Gagliano, and Cathy and Nolan Smith of the brewery. Pint Night may be coming to a Brewery near you in 2023 so check our website and social media for upcoming events. All Aboard Montana! |
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XPlorer Maps celebrates 10th Anniversary with creation of a Greater Northwest Passenger Rail Map for BSPRA
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“We believe that this original 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 Xplorer Maps and its founders, Chris and Greg Robitaille" says Dave Strohmaier, Chairman of the BSPRA.” |
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The original artwork has been donated to the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. Limited Edition prints are now available online! |
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Support restoring passenger rail with official BSPRA merchandise. Check out our collection of apparel, home goods, and accessories. BSPRA merchandise makes a great gift!
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THANK YOU TO OUR BUSINESS PARTNERS
For your commitment and investment in this important work.
We couldn't do it without you! |
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