Project Facts
- The Port of Longview began operations in 1921.
- The Port is located along the Columbia River, 66 miles from the Pacific Ocean.
- The Port’s 3.2-mile industrial rail corridor was completed in 2004 at a cost of $21 million.
November 2008
WSDOT and the Port of Longview have finalized the funding agreement for this project. Construction is scheduled to begin in November 2008, and be completed by June 2009.
Overview
A wye track is a set of rail tracks that take the shape of a “Y.” A wye configuration typically includes three tracks and three switches. This project will construct a wye between existing port tracks and the Port’s industrial rail corridor. This project will allow trains to loop through the Port in a single direction and give direct marine terminal access to port tenants located off of the waterfront.
Why is WSDOT
working with the Port of Longview to add more railroad tracks?
The Washington State Legislature provided WSDOT with $291,000 to help the Port of Longview continue to improve rail service for Port tenants. This project is intended to support economic development in the Kelso-Longview area by making the Port a more attractive place to do business for local, regional, national, and international firms.
The End Result
The wye track will improve rail access and service for Port tenants.
Project Benefits
- Unit trains can pass through the Port in a single direction.
- Port tenants not located on the waterfront will have access to marine terminals.
- The Port can attract new tenants requiring marine and rail transportation.
What is the project timeline?
The project is scheduled to be completed by April 2009.
Public Involvement
Your thoughts and opinions are important to us. Contact the State Rail and Marine Office for more information.
Environmental Protection
As WSDOT works with partners to identify, plan, and design construction projects aimed at improving freight rail service, detailed environmental review is undertaken for each project. For major construction projects an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is often necessary.
Please visit the WSDOT Environmental
Services Web site for more information.
Increasing safety is one of our priorities
The new tracks will be designed to ensure safe railroad operations.
Will this project impact tribal resources?
No project-related tribal resource impacts have been identified thus far. WSDOT will address the concerns of tribal nations using the process outlined in Section 106 of The National Preservation Act and the WSDOT Tribal Consultation Policy adopted in 2003 by the Transportation Commission as part of the WSDOT Centennial Accord Plan.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following fund sources:
- Pre-Existing State Funds - $291,000
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Kirk Fredrickson
Project Manager
WSDOT State Rail and Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360 705-7939
E-mail: Fredrik@wsdot.wa.gov
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