Asheville Passenger Rail Plan Gains Local Support

Asheville Passenger Rail Plan Gains Local Support

The effort to bring passenger rail back to Western North Carolina has gained traction, with local officials and state legislators showing support for the project. However, more funding is still required to keep the plan on track.

Local Support and Funding Needs

Nathan Ramsey, executive director of the Land of Sky Regional Council, stated during the council’s recent meeting that community government partners are working to secure additional funding for the Asheville-to-Salisbury rail route. The project is currently in the development phase of the Corridor ID process, requiring financial contributions from local, state, and non-federal sources.

Advocates for the Asheville to Salisbury route have emphasized the need for a non-federal match of approximately $250,000 to $300,000 for the project planning stage. This funding would supplement the $500,000 grant announced by the Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration in December.

Legislative Support and Funding Proposals

In response to the growing momentum of the rail project, North Carolina Senate Bill 821, known as the “Train Infrastructure Acceleration Act,” was introduced to provide an additional $1 million in state funding for routes that have received federal support through the FRA program. Governor Roy Cooper’s budget adjustments also include an extra $10 million in matching funds for FRA grants to enhance the competitiveness of rail projects in the state.

Local officials are optimistic about the legislature’s potential contributions to the rail project but acknowledge the need for financial participation from city, county, and town governments. Senator Julie Mayfield expressed her support for additional funding, recognizing the demand for passenger rail in North Carolina.

Future Outlook and Funding Challenges

Marion Mayor Steve Little, chair of the Western North Carolina Rail Committee, highlighted the importance of securing funding for the Asheville to Salisbury route, which has been a long-standing goal for rail advocates in the region. Little emphasized the role of local governments in producing and procuring financial resources for the project.

While the project remains in the early stages of development, stakeholders are hopeful that sufficient funding will be secured to advance the rail plan. The potential revitalization of passenger rail in Western North Carolina could have a significant impact on transportation infrastructure and regional connectivity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Asheville passenger rail plan has garnered local support and legislative attention, signaling a potential resurgence of rail transportation in the region. With ongoing efforts to secure additional funding and advance the project through the Corridor ID process, stakeholders remain optimistic about the future of passenger rail in Western North Carolina.