Full Text
By Ariana Lake KALISPELL City officials are looking at a large redevelopment for the area. (MTN News file photo) BNSF begins process to abandon Kalispell train tracks Posted: Feb 21, 2017 7:55 AM MST Updated: Feb 21, 2017 7:55 AM MST The Burlington Northern Santa Fe railway is starting up the formal process of abandoning the train tracks that run through Kalispell, but the tracks themselves probably won't be removed for some time. The Kalispell City Council voted last month to proceed with plans discussed for several years as part of the Core Revitalization Plan that calls for shifting all future rail traffic out of the downtown core and using the space for better traffic flow and the development of a twomile long trail system that will offer pedestrian and bike connections. Kalispell City Manager Doug Russell says BNSF has started the formal process of asking the Federal Surface Transportation Board to abandon the rail lines through downtown. However, that process usually takes several months and should be approved this year. City officials are also working with BNSF to develop the Glacier Rail Park on the northeast corner of town in order to provide more room for future industrial development. CONNECT More Videos Senior forwards Kayleigh Valley and Alycia Sims prepared to take on a new role Carrie Gregory says when her teenage son brought home Ava, a twomonthold baby Drive down Montana's roads and highways and you are likely to notice a sobering 00:50 / 00:50 CC