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Project Title & Location
PA Jct. To Delta Jct. Speed Increase – Everett, WA
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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
Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway, Ft. Worth, TX
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Recent Progress
Early data collection and engineering began in August 2003. Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway (BNSF), the host railroad, indicated they may ask that the scope of the project be expanded to include storage tracks in the yard area in addition to what was already agreed to by WSDOT. This scope change, and resulting added cost, would likely be in exchange for WSDOT not funding the construction of the Ballard Double Crossovers project. The Ballard project was also included in a package of projects that will likely be funded by Sound Transit through an agreement with BNSF. The exact implications have not been determined. The department is awaiting completion of the Sound Transit-BNSF agreement to determine appropriate action.
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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
Project may involve filling of wetlands 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 effect 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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