For the first time in decades, discussions about restoring passenger rail service through northern Michigan are gaining traction. Multiple organizations have been working for over ten years to make the vision a reality, aiming to connect communities across the state with a reliable rail network.
The Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities is spearheading one such initiative. The proposed project would establish a 240-mile passenger rail corridor linking Traverse City and Ann Arbor, with key stops in Cadillac, Clare, and Mt. Pleasant.
“A project like this is really transformational. You really only see projects of this scale once or twice in a generation,” said Carolyn Ulstad, Groundwork Transportation Program Manager.
Beyond Traverse City and Ann Arbor, the proposed rail line would benefit several smaller communities along the route. Rick Harnish, Executive Director of the High-Speed Rail Alliance, highlighted northern Michigan’s economic significance and the role a rail connection could play in boosting tourism and accessibility.
Mt. Pleasant City Manager Aaron Desentz echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the benefits for students and residents. “Ease of travel here certainly allows people to visit Mt. Pleasant, but it also allows people in Mt. Pleasant to have easier access to other tourist markets as well,” he said.
Infrastructure and Funding Challenges
While the rail tracks already exist and are state-owned, they are currently used for freight transport and require upgrades to meet passenger rail safety standards.
“Because you do want to travel at a higher speed to make it competitive with car travel,” said Ulstad. Enhancements would include improved grade crossings and the refurbishment of existing train stations to accommodate passengers.
Cost remains a significant hurdle. A 2018 study estimated the project at $244 million, but inflation has likely increased that figure. “We don’t have preliminary numbers yet, but that cost is on everyone’s mind,” Ulstad said.
Funding will be a decisive factor in the project’s progress. “Lansing needs to be committed to spending the money to do it,” Harnish noted.
Political and Legislative Outlook
Michigan lawmakers have expressed interest in the project but acknowledge financial constraints.
“I think it’s a wonderful project. Love to have rail service, especially passenger service to Traverse City, it would be fantastic,” said Rep. John Roth (R-104th District). However, he pointed out that the legislature’s current focus is on road improvements. “The new legislature coming in in 2025 is very much interested in fixing roads and putting investment into the road,” Roth added.
Federal funding could play a role, though the outlook remains uncertain. Senator Gary Peters (D-Michigan) has previously supported efforts to expand passenger rail, but with his decision not to seek re-election in 2026 and potential shifts in federal administration, the future of federal contributions remains unclear.
“It’s kind of to be seen what the future holds,” Ulstad said.
Next Steps
The project is currently in its second phase, where stakeholders are finalizing an operational plan and assessing infrastructure needs. This phase is expected to conclude by the end of 2025. However, even with continued progress, officials estimate that passenger rail service in northern Michigan is still nearly a decade away.
“This is not a project that will move quickly, but it’s one that I hope we’re able to work on over the next few years to make it a reality,” said Peters.
For now, the return of passenger rail to northern Michigan remains an ambitious long-term goal—one that hinges on funding, infrastructure improvements, and political will.
Information Gathered from: upnorthlive.com