Amtrak is experiencing a significant boost as the first half of the 2020s has been marked by increased investment in passenger rail projects in the United States. This investment trend began in 2021 with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allocated $32 billion to Amtrak from federal funds. This allowed Amtrak to tackle long-standing infrastructure and equipment issues and explore expanding its network, including the potential revival of the North Coast Hiawatha route across Montana.
In fiscal year 2024, Amtrak reported carrying 32.8 million passengers—an increase of 15% over the previous year—alongside record ticket revenue of $2.5 billion. Nevertheless, passenger rail advocates voice concerns over the future of these advancements due to shifting political landscapes in Washington, D.C., and the ongoing need for updated equipment, particularly in the western U.S.
Jim Matthews, president and CEO of the Rail Passengers Association, emphasized, “We are trying to reverse 50 years of neglect, and you just can’t do that in a year or two.” Amtrak’s history dates back to 1971 when it inherited passenger services from 20 private freight railroads. While Amtrak has grown its ridership over the decades, it still heavily depends on state and federal government support, receiving about $2 billion annually.
The 2021 Infrastructure Act injected $66 billion into national rail projects, with $22 billion designated for Amtrak directly. This funding has been directed toward critical projects such as refurbishing passenger cars and seeking new long-distance train cars. A notable project is the proposed revival of the North Coast Hiawatha route, which could deliver significant economic benefits to Montana and other states it would serve. A long-distance service study suggested restoring 15 routes, including the North Coast Hiawatha.
Uncertainty looms for Amtrak’s future, especially with potential political shifts, including the prospects of a Trump administration. Historically, the Trump administration proposed cuts to long-distance train funding, raising concerns about the sustainability of routes like the Empire Builder. Matthews remains hopeful due to bipartisan support in the Senate for long-distance services, noting, “These are services that people use and use a lot.”
Montana’s congressional delegation offers mixed support for Amtrak. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy favor long-distance service for its economic perks and community connectivity. However, Representative Ryan Zinke opposes additional funding, citing past inefficiencies. Amtrak’s Empire Builder, carrying 387,953 passengers in fiscal year 2024, faces challenges due to aging equipment and reduced capacity.
Efforts like those from the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority aim to restore services like the North Coast Hiawatha, with Chairman Dave Strohmaier pushing for renewed southern Montana routes. Despite obstacles, including equipment shortages and political uncertainties, advocates remain committed to revitalizing long-distance rail in the United States, confident in the project’s economic and social benefits.
—
Read More Montana News
