We recently met with the appropriate BNSF officials regarding an upgraded crossing at Birch Point Drive which would allow a “quiet zone” to be installed.

Unfortunately, under federal law, we do not believe we can compel BNSF to upgrade the crossing by themselves, however, they indicated BNSF can contribute some funding toward an effort to do that. They are not willing to contribute more than they have done for other crossings, but there is also some state grant money available for a small amount of the cost.

Unfortunately, the cost to improve the crossing and the road in that area to enable the crossing to be improved will likely be a very expensive project.

BNSF officials are helping us put together a current cost estimate for such a project, but it is quite likely that the neighborhood would have to pay a significant portion of the cost through a Special Improvement District (a bond or loan paid over 20 years with interest with annual assessments on the private property owners).

BNSF, the city, and the state will likely contribute significant portions of the cost, but the cost of the project will likely still require a significant portion of the cost from the neighborhood surrounding the Birch Point Drive crossing as that neighborhood will benefit the most from such an improvement.

The City is proposing it’s contribution in next year’s budget, which begins July 1, but we are still waiting to hear what the entire project will cost from BNSF.

— Chuck Stearns is Whitefish City Manager