April 2013
- WSDOT, the Federal Railroad Administration and BNSF Railway finalized agreements and design work is underway.
Why is WSDOT
working on Cascade Corridor railroad tracks?
This project addresses deficiencies along the corridor by improving track quality, reliability, and passenger ride comfort by upgrading track infrastructure with state of the art technology and equipment. In order for passenger trains to travel at higher speeds, it requires applying a more durable type of track than what is required for freight trains.
The End Result
The end result of this project is more reliable on-time performance for Amtrak Cascades intercity trains travelling between Everett and the Canadian border at Blaine.
Major components of the work include:
- upgrading track quality to accommodate faster speeds,
- cleaning and replacing ballast,
- removing and replacing ties, and
- relaying and resurfacing rail.
Project Benefits
This project will make a series of track upgrades to the BNSF main line tracks between Everett and Blaine. This work will allow Amtrak Cascades trains to maintain maximum speeds over longer distances, resulting in better on-time performance.
What is the project timeline?
BNSF began engineering and design work with construction scheduled to begin in summer 2013 and be complete in spring 2016.
Financial Information
WSDOT received federal high speed rail funds from the 2009 Recovery and Reinvestment Act, administered by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
Project Budget: $57.3 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Melanie Coon, Communications Manager
WSDOT Cascades High Speed Rail Program
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360-705-7905
Email: Melanie.coon@wsdot.wa.gov
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