Project Title & Location
Kelso-Martin’s Bluff, Cowlitz County, WA

Project Description
This project will reduce main line congestion near the Port of Kalama.

Contractor/Consultant
BNSF Railway, Fort Worth, Texas

Recent Progress
WSDOT will complete an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of the entire project area.  Currently, the EIS is being completed, with the draft EIS document anticipated to be released for public comment in spring 2007.

WSDOT is aware that freight rail infrastructure needs in this congested area must be addressed and is continuing to meet with the Port of Kalama to discuss the Kelso-Martin’s Bluff Rail Project.  WSDOT remains in discussions with the port district and BNSF Railway, who are interested in moving forward with a scaled down project that can be funded with the currently available $49.7 million.  Recent meetings have produced a draft plan that will need approval of all three parties. 

In July 2006, WSDOT requested to advance $100,000 for this project from the 2011-2013 biennium to make the total 2005-2007 biennium budget $400,000.  This action was approved by the Office of Financial Management in September 2006.

Design Construction Impacts
The construction impacts have not been determined.

Environmental Impacts / Compliance
The environmental impacts have not been determined.

Impacts to Traffic
Impacts to rail and roadway traffic have not been determined.

Planned vs. Actual Expenditures
(Total Project Cost)

Nickel funds included in above costs

2005 Transportation Partnership Account