Senator Tim Sheehy Pushes Federal Funding for Montana Rail

U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy advocated for expanded passenger rail in Montana during the Greater Northwest Rail Summit in Helena. Sheehy is promoting the Long-Distance Corridor Relief Enhancement Act, which he co-introduced with Senator Jeff Merkley. The legislation seeks to shift funding responsibility for the planning and development of long-distance rail corridors from local governments to the federal government by removing federal match requirements.

This legislative push supports the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority's goal to establish the Big Sky North Coast Corridor. The proposed 2,300-mile route would resurrect the former North Coast Hiawatha service, connecting Chicago to Seattle or Portland via Montana cities including Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Helena, and Missoula. While the first planning phase has been submitted to the Federal Railroad Administration, progress has been stalled by federal policy shifts.

Sheehy argued that the project would stimulate economic growth and tourism, noting that out-of-state visitors spent approximately $5.6 billion in 2025. He emphasized that the plan utilizes existing railway infrastructure and easements rather than constructing new tunnels or railroads. Beyond tourism, Sheehy stated that the service would alleviate overcrowded airports and provide rural residents with better access to employment, shopping, and medical appointments.