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Project Title & Location
Everett - Delta Jct. Curve Realignments and Delta Yard Storage Tracks
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Project Description
Realigns curves to improve speeds for passenger trains up to 50 mph, a 15-20 mph increase. Results in a 2-minute reduction in Seattle-Vancouver, BC schedule. Also guarantees the continued operation of the second train on this route.
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Contractor/Consultant
BNSF Railway, Fort Worth, Texas
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Recent Progress
This project will reduce travels times through the area and provide storage tracks to keep freight switching work off the main line. This will result in improved on-time reliability for trains traveling north of Seattle. The 2003 Funding Package provided $1 million in 2003-2005 for Pre-construction Engineering on this project and $13 million in 2005-2007 biennium for construction.
Pre-construction engineering began in August 2003, but issues with scope design and wetlands have resulted in the engineering not being completed by the end of June, as anticipated. This left an estimated $700,000 in project funds unexpended in 2003-2005, which was re-appropriated in the 2006 Supplemental Transportation Budget. The completion of engineering and environmental permitting that will be needed will cause the construction to be delayed by about 20 months.
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Design Construction Impacts
Data collection and the early stages of design began in August 2003. The city of Everett has been willing to be involved in the design to ensure other rail improvements that they are planning are accommodated.
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Environmental Impacts / Compliance
The project will involve the filling of wetlands, an assessment of biological impacts, and will require a Shoreline Permit from the city of Everett.
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Impacts to Traffic
There may be some brief work windows that may affect rail operations for both freight and passenger trains as new track is connected to the current track. Amtrak Cascades passengers may occasionally be moved by motor coach to allow for these work windows.
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