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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 realign curves to improve speeds for passenger trains and guarantees the continued operation of the second train on the Seattle-Vancouver, BC route.
The project will require BNSF to fill wetlands on their property, which then must be mitigated. BNSF informed WSDOT on February 23rd that the wetland permitting has delayed the anticipated start of construction until October of 2007. Previously, BNSF had planned on having permits in place and beginning construction in April 2007.
WSDOT had anticipated some delay in BNSF getting the required permits, so $8 million had previously been moved from the 2005-2007 biennium to the 2007-2009 through the Section 603 process. As a result of the latest information, WSDOT is now requesting that another $5 million be re-appropriated in to 2007-2009.
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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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