Project Facts
- Siding is a track located next to a main line that allows a train to move out of the way of an oncoming train.
- Sidings are also used to store trains, and to add or subtract rail cars.
- If the siding is not upgraded, delays could be even longer as rail traffic increases.
November 2008
In May 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 siding upgrade project has been expanded by the Legislature. This will extend the siding to allow future passenger service to stop at the planned Stanwood Amtrak station. Project planning meetings with BNSF Railway started in March 2008 addressing environmental permitting, road closures, and preliminary engineering. It is projected that environmental will take up to 180 days to complete. In October 2008, a community information meeting was held to discuss the Logen Road closure.
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?
Siding upgrade construction was started in May 2008. The project has been expanded to include extending the siding. Environmental permitting was started in April 2008. Project completion is scheduled for June 2009.
Public Involvement
In October 2008, a community information meeting was held to discuss the Logen Road closure.
Your thoughts and opinions are important to us. Contact the WSDOT State Rail and Marine Office for more information.
Environmental Protection
As WSDOT works with partners to identify, plan, and design construction projects aimed at expanding passenger rail service, detailed environmental review is undertaken for each project. For major construction projects an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is often necessary. No environmental issues are anticipated with this project.
Please visit the WSDOT Environmental
Services Web site for more information.
Increasing safety is one of our priorities
The siding upgrade allows trains to move out of the way of oncoming trains.
Will this project impact tribal resources?
WSDOT will consult with the Stillaguamish, Swinomish and Tulalip Tribes on this project.
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:
Lynnette Gregory
Project Manager
State Rail and Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360.705.7903
E-mail: Lynnette Gregory
Construction on this project will be managed by BNSF Railway. For contracting information, contact Dan MacDonald.
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