Members from the Montana Association of Railroad Passengers say they believe Montana's energy needs have changed and that additional rail passenger trains could help solve some serious environmental problems.

Montana Association of Railroad Passengers Vice President Michael Ackley was in Missoula Thursday to talk about the benefits of using trains in Montana.

"Rail Traffic, either fuel or passenger, is really fuel efficient. You can carry a lot of people, and steel on steel is the best way to move people."

Members of the MARP and city officials will be meeting with Governor Schweitzer next week at the State Capitol in Helena to discuss a feasibility study for a Southern Route. The route would start in Billings, and would feature stops in Livingston, Bozeman, Helena, Missoula and possibly Spokane. 

MARP members say Montana needs passenger trains in order to relieve dependence on foreign oil, high gas prices, and highway congestion. There's been talk of a separate passenger train which could relieve the commuting headaches on Highway 93 South. Railroad historian Bill Taylor says a commuter rail would help bring folks into Missoula.

"One only has to travel Highway 93 in the morning to realize the benefits of a commuter rail service. All those cars out there - most of them with only a single person in them commuting back and forth from the Bitterroot because they have no alternative."

Members of MARP are supporting Senate Bill 294, which, if passed, would give $1.8 billion for new routes and operations. Most of that money would be given to Amtrak.