Since 1999, we have led the effort to re-establish passenger rail service through West Central Wisconsin. We have been at the forefront of nearly every milestone to bring passenger rail back to our region.
Our Mission
The West Central Wisconsin Rail Coalition provides leadership and coordination to develop passenger rail service through west central Wisconsin as part of a regional strategy to ensure a balance transportation system necessary for long term sustainable economic growth.
“For our long-term economic future, we think it’s vital to be included in the passenger rail system”
What We've Achieved
2000 - WCWRC efforts result in additional state analysis of the economic impact of a West Central Wisconsin route on the Midwest Regional Rail System
2001 - Intercity Passenger Rail Corridors Feasibility Study concludes that a West Central Wisconsin route would contribute significant economic impact
2003 - Wisconsin Rail Issues & Opportunities Report states a West Central Wisconsin route would improve financial performance of proposed regional rail system
2005 - City of Eau Claire includes passenger rail in its Comprehensive Plan
2009 - City of Eau Claire includes passenger rail in its Sustainability Plan
2009 - City and County of Eau Claire pass resolutions in support of passenger rail
2009 - WisDOT to include high-speed passenger rail through West Central Wisconsin in the State Transportation Plan, Connections 2030
2010 - Minnesota Rail Plan designates Eau Claire/Twin Cities transportation corridor as one of five top economic contributors to Minnesota economy
2016 - Welcomed David Christianson as Executive Director of the Passenger Rail Organizing Council
2016 - Completed application and received approval designating West Central Wisconsin Rail Coalition as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit business entity
2017 - Several counties and municipalities in Wisconsin and Minnesota pass resolutions in support of passenger rail
2017 - Received draft timetable from UWEC Student Passenger Rail Committee for four daily round trip service between Eau Claire and St. Paul Union Depot and report on proposed services and amenities
2020- Infrastructure study expected to be completed by the end of the year
2021- Creation of Chippewa-St. Croix Rail Commission to oversee development and operation of new passenger rail service
2021-Congress approves Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, including money for expanded rail service; President Biden signs it into law
2022-Planning begins in anticipation of Federal Rail Administration grant application
2023-Grant applications are submitted to the Federal Rail Administration; FRA approves $500,00 grants to begin studies of two routes between Eau Claire and the Twin Cities
Links to the Wisconsin and Minnesota rail plans can be found here
