October 2009
WSDOT issued a SEPA Determination of Nonsignificance for the Stanwood Siding Extension and Crossover Project which was final on September 29:
In 2008, the siding upgrade was coordinated with the main line rehabilitation near the future Amtrak station. Construction work included new track and concrete ties for the main line track and siding.
The scope of the siding upgrade project was expanded by the Legislature in March 2008 to lengthen the siding. This allows future passenger service to stop at the planned
Stanwood Amtrak station.
Wetland permits are expected in October, with construction starting as early as November 2009.
A
Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) hearing occured on March 30, 2009. The findings of the hearing are pending, but the details are available
here.
Why is WSDOT
upgrading siding in the Stanwood area?
Currently freight and passenger trains can be delayed as long as 70 minutes due to the poor condition of siding at Stanwood, in northern Snohomish County.
The End Result
Siding upgrades will decrease delays for freight and passenger trains. Extending the siding will allow Amtrak trains to stop at the proposed train station without delaying freight service.
Project Benefits
- More reliable Amtrak Cascades service
- Increased safety for trains, drivers and pedestrians.
- Siding extension allows future passenger service to stop at the Amtrak station.
What is the project timeline?
Upgrades to the track was started in May 2008 and completed in March 2009. The project has been expanded to include extending the siding. Environmental permitting is anticipated to be completed by September 2009. Project completion is scheduled for June 2010.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
- 2003 Legislative Transportation Package (New & Used Vehicle
Sales Tax) - $15.95 million
- Total Funding From All Sources - $15.95 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Kevin Jeffers, P.E.
Project Manager
State Rail and Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360-705-7982
E-mail: Kevin Jeffers
Construction on this project will be managed by BNSF Railway. They have selected an earthwork contractor. Track and signal work will be done with internal BNSF sources.
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