February 2012
- The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) determined that the Hickox Road grade crossing will be closed for public use. In order to close the crossing and make full use of the new siding, BNSF is required to construct some nearby improvements.
- WSDOT received additional funding from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) as part of the August 2010 High Speed Intercity Passenger Rail grant. We are awaiting the release of this funding.
Why is WSDOT
upgrading siding at Mt. Vernon?
The Mt. Vernon siding track was in poor condition and needed improvements so passenger trains could use it. In addition the current siding is not long enough for most freight trains. The project also needs the Hickox Road grade crossing closed to make full use of the extended siding.
The End Result
Southbound morning passenger trains can now leave earlier, and northbound evening passenger trains can arrive later, due to the first phase of construction.
The second phase will allow longer freight trains to use the siding.
Project Benefits
- More reliable Amtrak Cascades service.
- Increased passenger and freight rail safety.
- Increased freight rail capacity.
What is the project timeline?
The first phase of construction began in March 2005 to upgrade the siding and is complete. Improvements associated with the closure of Hickox Road may be constructed in 2011. The siding extension work will not begin until late 2011 at current funding levels.
The second phase, to extend the siding, is on hold until additional funding from FRA is released.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
- 2003 Legislative Transportation Package (New & Used Vehicle Sales Tax) - $3.8 million
- August 2010 HSIPR grant - $3.3 million
- Total Funding From All Sources - $7.1 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Dan Lewis, PE
Project Engineer
State Rail and Marine Office
1551 North Wenatchee Ave.
Wenatchee, WA 98807
Phone: 509-667-2894
E-mail: dan.lewis@wsdot.wa.gov
Construction on this project will be managed by BNSF Railway. To become a supplier of construction services such as grading and construction management, or construction materials for this project, please go to BNSF's supplier site and submit a supplier registration form.
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