Why is WSDOT
making rail upgrades in the Bellingham-Georgia Pacific (GP) plant area?
Currently trains must slow down on the existing main line located at the GP plant in Bellingham.
Grade crossing equipment in the area at Laurel and Central Streets will also be upgraded to ensure that the warning system activates properly to alert drivers and pedestrians.
The End Result
With the upgrades, passenger train speeds will increase from 20 mph to 30 mph. Freight train speeds will increase from 20 mph to 25 mph.
After future improvements to additional grade crossings in the Bellingham area are completed, passenger train speeds could be increased to 48 mph. WSDOT is discussing those improvements with the City of Bellingham.
Project Benefits
- Faster Amtrak Cascades service
- Reduced waiting times for drivers and pedestrians at two crossings near the GP plant
What is the project timeline?
In 2005 this project was combined with the Bellingham Waterfront Redevelopment project.
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
- 2003 Legislative Transportation Package (New & Used Vehicle
Sales Tax) - $200,000
- Total Funding From All Sources - $200,000
For project schedule and updates, please see the Quarterly Project Report.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Kevin Jeffers, P.E.
Rail Engineering Manager
WSDOT Rail Office
Box 47387
Olympia, WA 98504-7387
Phone: 360.705.7901, or toll-free 1.800.822.2015 (in Washington State)
E-mail: rail@wsdot.wa.gov
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