✅ Talking Points to Consider for Contacting Elected Officials

1. Advocate for Infrastructure Funding

Please support and encourage investment in Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s recovery by backing Washington State’s Federal Rail Assistance Program and helping to secure federal CRISI (Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements) funding for this project. The loss of the bridge is a critical setback for a nonprofit organization that serves as both a cultural asset and economic driver in rural Washington, as well as critical future catalyst for increased industry along the line.

2. Push for Infrastructure Eligibility Reform

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad is assuming shoreline status and preparing to provide freight service—yet organizations like this often fall into funding gaps because they’re nonprofit, tourist-based, or a railroad without being a recognized common carrier operation. Please advocate for alternative means of funding rail infrastructure that support rural and heritage corridors critical to local economies.

3. Emphasize Economic Impact

MRSR brings over 80,000 visitors annually to rural Pierce and Lewis Counties and has plans to generate additional tourist revenue by expanding capacity and freight revenue by serving local industries. Restoring the line to Morton would create jobs, drive tourism, and support small business development in historically underserved communities. The railroad’s recovery is an investment in long-term economic resilience.

4. Support the Criminal Investigation

The bridge fire occurred just hours after the railroad finalized purchase of the branch line and has been vocal about expanding operations. A full and transparent criminal investigation is essential to ensure accountability, deter future acts of vandalism or arson, and preserve public trust in infrastructure stewardship.

5. Share Your Personal Connection

What’s your story? Whether it’s a memory of riding the train, the value you see in rural preservation, or the importance of passing history on to the next generation, why do YOU care?

📬 Who to Contact

State Level

Governor Jay Inslee
https://www.governor.wa.gov/contact/contact/send-gov-inslee-e-message

State Senator John Braun (District 20)
https://johnbraun.src.wastateleg.org/contact-me/

State Rep. Peter Abbarno (20th LD)
https://houserepublicans.wa.gov/peter-abbarno/

State Rep. Ed Orcutt (20th LD)
https://edorcutt.houserepublicans.wa.gov/contact

State Rep. Andrew Barkis (2nd LD)
https://andrewbarkis.houserepublicans.wa.gov/contact

Federal Level

Senator Maria Cantwell (Chairs Senate Commerce Committee)
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/contact

Senator Patty Murray
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contactme

Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03)
https://gluesenkampperez.house.gov/contact