The Nevada Northern Railway in Ely, Nevada, has been recommended for listing as a National Historic Landmark.

Ron James, state historic preservation officer and one of 10 members on the National Historical Landmarks Committee, said the nomination won unanimous support. A nomination must be approved by the committee before it can be forwarded to the National Park System Advisory Board and the secretary of the interior.

"This is a critical first step, which represents a clear recognition of the importance of this remarkable resource," James said in a news release.

To qualify, a historic site must have national significance and a high degree of integrity. Nevada has six sites, including Hoover Dam, the Virginia City Landmark District, Reno's Newland's Mansion, Fort Churchill, Fort Ruby and the Leonard Rock Shelter.

"The nomination for the Nevada Northern (Railway) indicates that this is the best preserved complex of its kind in the nation," James said. "Anyone who has visited this extraordinary place knows it is one of the nation's great treasures."