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
The legislature provided a total of $5.0 million to build a new rail connection to Spokane County’s Airway Heights industrial park to replace the connection that currently passes through Fairchild Air Force Base.  The project depends on the state's purchase of the CW Branch of the PCC Railroad, at least the portion needed to provide access to the BNSF Railroad Company main line in Cheney.  The purchase fell through when the railroad owner, Watco Companies, Inc., withdrew the property from sale.  Negotiations with Watco to resolve the issues are scheduled to begin in April 2006.  The project also depends on approval by the Surface Transportation Board, which could require an extensive environmental review process.  Spokane County is awaiting finalization of the State's purchase and selection of an operator before approaching the STB in order to minimize any STB concerns that might require such a review.

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