Vernal, Utah – A coalition of counties in eastern Utah has taken steps to advance a proposed railroad that would build a freight railroad between Roosevelt, Utah, and Craig.
The Seven County Infrastructure Coalition passed a resolution in February to submit a $ 30 million application to the Utah Permanent Community Impact Fund Board to cover the cost of building a railroad line in the Uintah Basin that connects to a national railroad system in Colorado .
In January, the coalition passed another resolution to apply to CIB for $ 10 million to cover costs prior to building the railroad, but decided to apply for the full $ 30 million required for regulatory approval at the February 9 meeting is required.
“The thought process, as Eric (Johnson) pointed out very well, was that we would get $ 10 million a year over three years to get there,” said Mike McKee, executive director of the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition. “As we worked with lawmakers to draft legislation, we figured it was probably best to just put everything in the foreground – the total we will aim for is $ 30 million. That’s what we’re trying to do; Essentially, we’re aiming for $ 30 million, even though we don’t think we’ll be spending $ 30 million this year. It would extend over a period of several years. “
The coalition is asking for up to $ 30 million in grants from CIB, but if approved, it is up to the CIB to decide whether to distribute the money gradually or all at once.
The coalition also passed a resolution approving requests for qualifications for rail alignment, revenue, and regulatory and related matters.
The deadline for the announcement ends on April 5th at 3 p.m.
Uintah County Commissioner Brad Horrocks said of the rail link during the Uintah County Commission meeting on Feb.26, “We’re going ahead, just looking at ways to do this and include Moffat County. They proceeded with some interest, ”said Horrocks. “We’re looking at funding opportunities to move forward.”
“If it goes ahead, I think it will be a great thing for both states.” Moffat County Commissioner Don Cook said. “What I would say is that we support the coalition of seven counties more. It is they who show the way, and we only support them until something specific can finally be determined. “
The next meeting of the Coalition for Seven Counties will be on March 9th in Salt Lake City.
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