Skip Top Navigation

Rail - Stanwood Siding Upgrades

Status

February 2010

In November 2009, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) ordered the at-grade crossing at 292nd St. NW (a.k.a. Logan Rd.) to be closed in conjunction with several other improvements. The required improvements are the construction of a cul-de-sac (turn-around) on the east side of the crossing and roadway and warning signal improvements at 271 St NW in downtown Stanwood, 300th St NW (a.k.a. Dettling Rd.) and Old Pacific Highway (a.k.a. 102nd Ave NW). The final order and findings of the hearings are available here. The design of the required improvements is underway.

In September, WSDOT issued a SEPA Determination of Nonsignificance for the Stanwood Siding Extension and Crossover Project. This will be revised to reflect design changes required by the WUTC. The September SEPA Documents are available here:


In 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 scope of the siding upgrade project was expanded by the Legislature in 2008 to lengthen the siding. This allows the Amtrak Cascades passenger service to stop at the now open Stanwood Amtrak station. BNSF is allowing Amtrak Cascades trains to stop at Stanwood while the project is being completed.

Wetland permits are expected in Spring 2010, with construction starting as early as May 2010.

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?
Upgrades to the track was started in May 2008 and completed in March 2009. The project has been expanded to include extending the siding. Environmental permitting is anticipated to be completed by May 2010. Project completion is scheduled for September 2010. 

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:
 
Kevin Jeffers, P.E.
Project Manager
State Rail and Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360-705-7982
E-mail: Kevin Jeffers

Construction on this project will be managed by BNSF Railway. They have selected an earthwork contractor. Track and signal work will be done with internal BNSF sources.

back to top