Idaho Rail Plan: Boosting Safety & Economic Impact for ITD

Idaho is updating its **Idaho Statewide Rail Plan**, assessing its **rail infrastructure**, focusing on safety, economic impact, and grade crossings. Public input is welcome.

Idaho Rail Plan: Boosting Safety & Economic Impact for ITD
October 30, 2025 10:54 pm
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Introduction

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is gathering public feedback to update the Idaho Statewide Rail Plan, a document assessing the state’s rail infrastructure. The plan, last updated in 2013, will address the condition and performance of Idaho’s rail network, along with rail safety and grade crossings.

Idaho Statewide Rail Plan Update

The Idaho Statewide Rail Plan is designed to analyze Idaho’s rail network, including an evaluation of its current condition. The plan also identifies system-wide challenges and opportunities. Additionally, it outlines strategies intended to strengthen rail infrastructure throughout the state.

Key Focus Areas

The updated plan will cover various topics, including rail safety and grade crossings. It will also consider access for rail-served industries to boost Idaho’s economy. The previous version of the plan was last updated in 2013.

Rail Operations and Funding

Railways in Idaho are operated by the private sector. The ITD shares responsibility for safety at grade crossings. There are no dedicated state funding sources for freight or passenger rail. Funding is limited to match funds for federally funded improvements to crossings.

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Conclusion

The Idaho Transportation Department is updating the Idaho Statewide Rail Plan to assess and improve the state’s rail infrastructure, covering aspects from safety to economic impact. The plan will also look at grade crossings and access for rail-served industries. Funding for rail projects is primarily federal, with the state providing matching funds.

Company Summary

Idaho Transportation Department (ITD): The state department responsible for transportation infrastructure, including rail. ITD is seeking public input to update the Idaho Statewide Rail Plan.

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