Project Facts
- Main line railroads are converting to 286,000-pound railcars.
- This project will upgrade 1.8 miles of rail between Wheeler and Warden.
- The upgrade is needed so the short line railroad can fully participate in the national rail network.
July 2008
Project construction has been delayed while the transfer of the ownership of the rail line takes place to Columbia Basin Railroad. In January 2008, BNSF Railway transferred the right-of-way and operating rights to the Columbia Basin Railroad. Work on the Project Charter and Funding Agreement started January 2008. The project has been placed on hold until it is determined if state funds can be used for private businesses.
Why is WSDOT
upgrading tracks between Wheeler and Warden?
The tracks cannot support 286,000-pound railcars, which are the standard on main line railroads.
The End Result
This project will upgrade 1.8 miles of rail between Wheeler and Warden from worn-out lightweight rail to heavy rail.
Project Benefits
- Assures long-term viability of railroad and the shippers located on railroad can ship their products to market in a cost-effective manner.
- Track will be able to accommodate modern 296,000-pound freight cars.
- Minimize the added wear and tear on state roadways caused each year by thousands of heavy truckloads.
What is the project timeline?
Construction has been delayed while transfer of ownership of the line takes place. The project has been placed on hold until it is determined if state funds can be used for private businesses.
Public Involvement
Your thoughts and opinions are important to us. Please contact the WSDOT State Rail and Marine Office for more information.
WSDOT continues to work with port districts, county governments, and rail-dependent shippers to collaborate on how to preserve this rail system for now and in the future.
Environmental Protection
As WSDOT works with partners to identify, plan, and design construction projects aimed at preserving freight rail service, detailed environmental review is undertaken for each project. For major construction projects, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is often necessary. Precise environmental issues have not been defined at this time.
Please visit the WSDOT Environmental
Services Web site for more information.
Increasing safety is one of our priorities
Work will be done in conformance to American Railway Engineering Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) and BNSF Railway track standards to help ensure the safe operation of trains.
Will this project impact tribal resources?
While no project-related tribal resource impacts have yet been identified, WSDOT is addressing the concerns of tribal nations using the process outlined in Section 106 of The National Historic Preservation Act and the WSDOT Tribal Consultation Policy adopted in 2003 by the Transportation Commission as part of the WSDOT Centennial Accord Plan.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
- 2003 Legislative Transportation Package (New & Used Vehicle
Sales Tax) - $400,000
- Total Funding From All Sources - $400,000
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 done by the Columbia Basin Railroad. Outside contractors will not be solicited. For more information, contact Tim Marshall.
back to top