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Local leaders urge clarity after MRL announces rail abandonment; commissioners to discuss next week
Summary
Public speakers and trail groups told the Granite County commission that Montana Rail Link’s announcement to abandon a spur raises questions about ownership and future use. Commissioners agreed to place the matter on next week’s agenda to seek clarity and possibly invite MRL to speak.
Public commenters on April 2 told the Granite County Board of Commissioners that Montana Rail Link’s (MRL) announced abandonment of a 26-mile rail spur raises significant local questions about rights, ownership and future use.
Scott Wise, who identified himself as president of his town council and a member of the Flint Creek Trail Association Board, said the trail association considered but ultimately decided not to pursue a trail conversion for the entire corridor because of the potential legal and property complications. He said parts of the corridor are already bridged over or filled and that any long-term conversion — if feasible — could take decades and would face funding challenges.
Wise and other speakers urged the county to remain involved to track whether MRL will return right-of-way segments to adjacent landowners or pursue a conversion. Commissioners said they would place a discussion of the MRL letter on next week’s agenda so the county can clarify ownership questions and determine whether to invite an MRL representative.
Commissioners and attendees also noted that trail options on nearby public land remain possible and that the county has an existing working relationship with the Forest Service for alternative trail projects.
No formal county action on ownership or trail acquisition was taken at the meeting; commissioners limited the outcome to scheduling further discussion and outreach.
