In a recent government meeting, officials provided significant updates on the Chippewa St. Croix passenger rail commission, highlighting progress in efforts to restore passenger rail service between Eau Claire and the Twin Cities. Mr. Scott Rogers, chair of the West Central Wisconsin Rail Coalition, and Supervisor Dunning outlined the commission's formation and its ongoing initiatives.

Established in 2021, the Chippewa St. Croix Commission includes representatives from Eau Claire, Dunn, and St. Croix counties, along with six municipalities. The commission aims to enhance transportation options in the Chippewa and Saint Croix Valley, with a focus on economic development and mobility benefits associated with passenger rail service.

A key development is the commission's successful application for a $500,000 grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which aims to create new passenger rail corridors. This funding will support the scoping phase for the Eau Claire to Saint Paul route, a crucial first step in the planning process. The commission has engaged prominent transportation consultants to assist in this phase, with expectations for the initial study to be completed by spring 2024.

Rogers emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that the commission's work is not only about restoring rail service but also about fostering economic growth in the region. The commission is also coordinating with state transportation departments to explore additional rail corridors, including potential service extensions from Milwaukee through Eau Claire to the Twin Cities.

As discussions progressed, questions arose regarding the timeline for service availability. While officials acknowledged that transportation projects take time, they expressed optimism about the federal funding pipeline and the commission's role in advancing these initiatives.

In addition to rail updates, Charity Zeke, director of the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, provided an overview of the airport's operations, which are managed through a joint agreement between Eau Claire and Chippewa counties. Zeke highlighted the airport's unique governance structure and its ongoing commitment to operational excellence.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collaborative effort among local leaders to enhance transportation infrastructure, with a clear focus on the long-term benefits for the community.