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STEVENSVILLE- The roar of a Montana Rail Link train can once again be heard throughout the Bitterroot Valley as the first train swept through western Montana Saturday morning after a one year hiatus.

Months of negotiations between MRL, local government leaders and Ravalli County businesses led to the return of Montana Trail Link service.

Saturday's train originated in Missoula and made its final stop just north of Corvallis and Stevensville Mayor Gene Mim Mack says opening the line was only made possible because everyone worked together.

"Clearly that leadership and encouragement really initiated the process, by which we all took a hard look and said here's an opportunity to work together for the common good."

Crews worked over the last several weeks to repair the line and since there's no fixed schedule, MRL is reminding residents who live near the line to be sure that they use extra caution again at crossings throughout the Bitterroot Valley.