Rail Crossing Survey - Now Available

Rail Crossing Survey Overview - CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY

The City of Livingston is seeking feedback from City residents on potential rail crossing improvements along the east west transcontinental rail line that runs through the community. This survey is intended only for City of Livingston residents, as City taxpayers would be responsible for funding any locally funded improvements. To ensure the results reflect the views of those who would bear these costs, survey responses will only be counted from participants who are City of Livingston residents and provide a valid City utility (water, sewer, and trash) billing account number. The results of this survey will be shared with the incoming City Commission and discussed at upcoming public meetings to help inform future decisions.

Livingston currently has one public grade separated rail crossing within City limits at Main B Street, along with three public at grade crossings at 5th Street, Bennett Street, and Glassybaby Lane. For many years, the community has discussed the possibility of creating a second grade separated crossing to improve traffic flow and reduce delays caused by train activity as the City continues to grow. Past efforts include a voter approved referendum in 2008 for a temporary levy tied to a proposed crossing that was never constructed and a 2021 voter rejection of a $20 million bond for a new crossing on the west side of the City. As a result, no additional grade separated crossing has been built.

A new grade separated rail crossing would be a large and complex project, likely taking several years to evaluate, design, and construct, with recent projects in other Montana cities costing between $20 million and $30 million. Based on current estimates, a project of this scale in Livingston could result in a long term property tax impact for City residents if funded through local bonding. In contrast, the City is also exploring more limited improvements to existing crossings, including a reconstruction of the 5th Street crossing planned for 2027 and potential locally funded upgrades at Bennett Street or drainage improvements at the Main B Street underpass. These smaller scale projects would carry lower and shorter term costs.

The City of Livingston will continue to pursue federal and state funding opportunities to help offset the cost of rail crossing improvements. At the same time, the City is preparing for the possibility that any future project could require local funding if that is the direction supported by City Commissioners and residents.

County residents who support rail crossing improvements are encouraged to share their views with their County Commissioners. While this survey is limited to City residents, county participation and support would be welcomed as part of any broader discussion about regional transportation needs and potential partnerships.

This survey asks residents to review this information and share their perspective on how the City Commission should proceed.

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY