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Project Title & Location
Mt. Vernon Siding Upgrade – Mt. Vernon
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Project Description
Completes contractual commitments with the host railroad to upgrade the existing rail siding for on-time reliability. Guarantees the continued operation of the second train on this route, currently operating between Seattle and Bellingham.
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Recent Progress
This project will allow passenger trains traveling in opposite directions on the single-track mainline to safely move around each other just south of Mt. Vernon. Phase 1 of the project upgraded the existing rail siding, and Phase 2 will construct storage tracks in the Mt. Vernon/Burlington area. Construction of the first phase began in March 2005 and was completed in May 2005. Engineering began on Phase 2 of the project in November 2004 and will continue in the 2005-2007 biennium. Engineering plans for Phase 2 are in final review with comments being addressed by the design team. The overall project will be completed by June 2007, as planned.
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Environmental Impacts / Compliance
The first phase of the project, the upgrade of the existing track, will require only documentation for compliance with both the National and State Environmental Protection Acts. The second phase of the project, the new storage tracks, may require a biological assessment for its affects on endangered species.
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Impacts to Traffic
There may be some brief work windows that may effect rail operation for both freight and passenger trains as old signals are replaced with new signals. Amtrak Cascades passengers may experience short delays on trains traveling between Vancouver or Bellingham and Seattle.
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