Survey Shows Strong Montana Public Support for Expanded Transit and Passenger Rail

A legislative survey in Montana has revealed significant public interest in expanding state funding for public transportation and passenger rail services to address rising road congestion. Currently, state support is limited to transit for the elderly and disabled, leaving general passenger services in cities like Missoula and Bozeman to rely on local and federal funding. The results, which highlight a high demand for recreational and commuter access, are scheduled for discussion by state legislators at a meeting on July 8.

The survey results indicate a shift in public priorities as Montana’s population grows and road congestion increases, particularly in tourist hotspots. While passenger bus services in cities like Missoula and Bozeman currently depend on local taxes and federal grants, legislators such as Rep. Denise Baum and Sen. Andrea Olsen are pushing for the state to take a more active role in funding infrastructure. Sen. Olsen emphasized that delaying these investments will only increase future costs, noting that the current system cannot accommodate the rising number of vehicles on the road without significant systemic changes.

Survey respondents identified recreation as the leading reason for using public transit at 30%, followed by employment and shopping tied at 18%. In response to this demand, transit agencies like Mountain Line in Missoula and the Gallatin Valley Urban Transportation District are already piloting or expanding routes to recreational sites like Marshall Mountain and Bridger Bowl. When asked which services they would use if offered, respondents ranked passenger trains as the most desired option, followed by buses. Dave Strohmaier, chairperson of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, stated that these findings validate long-standing efforts to restore and expand rail service across the state.

However, the path to expanded transit remains complicated by funding hurdles and industrial concerns. A previous attempt by Rep. Baum to secure a $2 million appropriation for passenger rail failed due to opposition from industrial interests regarding a proposed rail car tax. Additionally, there are concerns about how increased passenger service might impact freight operations on BNSF Railway lines, which are critical for transporting agricultural products and Bakken oil. While Sen. Gregg Hunter raised concerns about the potential economic impact of closing BNSF facilities in Glasgow, a company spokesperson confirmed there are no current plans to shut down the site, which currently employs 116 workers.