Project Title & Location
Geiger Spur Connection, Spokane County

Project Description
Relocate exiting part of existing rail line to provide conection with PCC near Medical Lake.

Contractor/Consultant
Western Rail Services operates the rail which is owned by Spokane County.

Recent Progress

Watco and WSDOT provided verbal commitments to Spokane County to allow the connection needed with the PCC CW rail line, and have promised to provide written authority.  The project depends on approval by the Surface Transportation Board, which could require an extensive environmental review process.  Spokane County submitted its plans to approach the STB to an attorney specializing in STB law, and expects to resolve all STB issues by the end of August 2006.

The 30% plans were completed in May 2006 under a federal grant.  New estimates show that the project will cost $5.6 million; however, this included a 20% contingency on many remaining unknowns.   WSDOT and the County are reviewing the plans for cost savings and other changes.  The County is also considering whether it can cover costs above the amount provided by this grant.

Design Construction Impacts
Construction impacts have not been determined.  It is anticipated that construction on the new alignment may cause some noise and dust.

Environmental Impacts / Compliance
Environmental Impacts have not been determined.

Impacts to Traffic
Only brief delays to rail traffic will be required during construction.  Construction of new highway/rail grade crossings may cause brief delay to motorists.

Planned vs. Actual Expenditures
(Total Project Cost)

Nickel funds included in above costs

2005 Transportation Partnership Account