Project Facts
- Trains began operating between Wallula and Walla Walla in 1875.
- The 69-mile rail line has two owners. The tracks between Wallula and Walla Walla are owned by the Union Pacific Railroad. The tracks between Walla Walla and Dayton are owned by the Port of Columbia.
- Rail service over the entire line is provided by the Palouse River and Coulee City Railroad.
July 2008
In March, WSDOT toured the entire 69-mile line between Wallula and Dayton to review a preliminary list of rehabilitation projects identified by WSDOT's inspection team. WSDOT will be refining the draft investment plan for these funds and the $270,000 available for the Dayton Yard Rehabilitation project and sharing this plan with the port, the railroad, and local shippers in summer 2008. WSDOT will manage these project funds in conjunction with funds for the Dayton Yard Rehabilitation Project ($270,000).
Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2008 and should be completed by June 2013.
Why is WSDOT
rehabilitating the rail line between Wallula and Dayton?
The rail line suffers from years of deferred maintenance.
The End Result
WSDOT will work with the Ports of Walla Walla and Columbia to rehabilitate portions of the rail line to ensure a viable railroad system able to serve Washington shippers for years to come.
Project Benefits
- Continuation of rail service to businesses in Walla Walla and Columbia Counties
- Lower transportation costs for local shippers
- Minimize wear and tear on state highways by providing an alternative to truck transportation
What is the project timeline?
Construction is scheduled to begin September 2008. Construction is scheduled to be completed by June 2013.
Public Involvement
Your thoughts and opinions are important to us. Please contact the WSDOT State Rail Office for more information.
WSDOT continues to work with port districts, county governments, and rail-dependent shippers to collaborate on how to preserve this rail system for now and in the future.
Environmental Protection
Rail transportation requires less fuel per ton-mile and produces less pollution than other forms of transportation. This translates into significant fuel savings and more environmentally responsible movement of Washington State products.
Please visit the WSDOT Environmental
Services Web site for more information.
Increasing safety is one of our priorities
With the rehabilitation of the rail line, WSDOT will be able to increase the safety of this line.
Will this project impact tribal resources?
WSDOT will consult with the Umatilla Tribe and Yakama Nation on this project.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
- 2003 Legislative Transportation Package (New & Used Vehicle Sales Tax) - $5.313 million
- Total Funding From All Sources - $5.313 million
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: Kirk Fredrickson
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