Project Facts
- Additional storage tracks will allow BNSF Railway to continue serving the area's rail shippers.
- Train speeds will increase 15 to 20 mph in this area.
- Trains will be able to travel at speeds up to 50 mph, reducing travel time up to two minutes for Amtrak Cascades riders traveling between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia.
July 2008
Environmental work is continuing as BNSF is negotiating for wetland mitigation. Construction is scheduled to begin in summer 2008 and is scheduled for completion in June 2009.
Why is WSDOT
making rail upgrades at PA Junction and Delta Yard in Everett?
Currently train speeds are kept low in the Everett area due to numerous sharp curves. Further, the main line is congested as the tracks at Delta Yard are too short to accept modern freight trains without blocking the main tracks. Realigning the curves will allow passenger and freight trains to increase speed through this area. Expanding Delta Yard will reduce main line congestion.
The End Result
The end result is Amtrak Cacades trains will be able to move past the yard faster and with less interference from freight operations.
Project Benefits
- Faster, more reliable Amtrak Cascades service
What is the project timeline?
The project was originally scheduled to begin construction in September 2006. Issues with pre-engineering and environmental permitting have caused delays.
Construction is now scheduled to begin in summer 2008 and is scheduled for completion in June 2009.
Public Involvement
Your thoughts and opinions are important to us. Contact the WSDOT State Rail and Marine Office for more information.
Environmental Protection
As WSDOT works with partners to identify, plan, and design construction projects aimed at expanding passenger rail service, detailed environmental review is undertaken for each project. This project will not impact endangered species, but will require mitigation for impacts to some moderate-quality wetlands.
Please visit the WSDOT Environmental
Services Web site for more information.
Increasing safety is one of our priorities
The track and train control signals will be built to the current safety standards of the Federal Railroad Administration and the BNSF Railway Company.
Will this project impact tribal resources?
WSDOT will consult with the Tulalip Tribes on this project.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following fund sources:
- 2003 Legislative Transportation Package (New & Used Vehicle
Sales Tax) - $14 million
- Total Funding From All Sources - $14 Million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Kevin Jeffers, P.E.
Project Manager
State Rail and Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360.705.7982
E-mail: Kevin Jeffers
Construction on this project will be managed by BNSF Railway. For contracting information, contact Rick Wagner
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