Learn about Eastern Oregon project
AORTA is actively working to restore, and even expand, passenger rail service to Eastern Oregon and on into Idaho and sourthern Montana. Our October 2019 community meeting in La Grande was well attended, and passenger rail advocates in the region are actively promoting service, connecting with legislators, the business community and other groups and individuals.
Restoring passenger rail service to rural Oregon (May 2024)
Hells Canyon Journal article on restoring rail service to Eastern Oregon
Here are some resources to help promote passenger rail in the region:
Proposal for funding Oregon intercity passenger services
Template for municipal and county resolutions
Eastern Oregon rail station report
Washington state east-west rail study bill (page 10 of this document)
Transportation for America webinar on regional transportation authorities
Enabling legislation from Mississippi, on joining the Southern Rail Commission (sample from different region; can serve as a template for similar purpose in Pacific Northwest)