Overview
This project proactively upgraded 14 miles of the southern portion of the Lewis and Clark (Chelatchie Prairie) rail line located in Clark County. This line is located between Rye Junction in Vancouver, Washington and Battleground, Washington. The outcome of the project allows for both increased speeds on the track and an expected increase in the volume of rail traffic. The project includes critical culvert repair to prevent the rail line from washing out.
 | Improves Safety
Improves safety for freight rail service, including offloading of LP gas products from a future shipper.
|
 | Relieves Congestion
This line is located primary within an urban setting. It is anticipated there will be 10% annual growth of rail traffic for the next 15 years. Increase of rail traffic leads to decreased truck traffic within the urban area.
|
 | Protects Environment
Projected to eliminate over 3,600 semi-truck loads per year, decreasing green-house gas and reducing the carbon footprint within the community.
|
 | Economic Incentive
The rail line is the only rail access for Clark County to the BNSF mainline, into the Port of Vancouver. The upgrades of the rail played a key role in attracting a local petroleum product to locate on the line, retaining 30 jobs.
|
Partnerships & Cooperation
WSDOT worked in cooperation with the Clark County, City of Vancouver, and the Operator to complete the project.
Funding
This project was funded through the following resources:
Freight Rail Assistance Funding Program: $1.1 million
Clark County match: $110,000
Total Funding: $1.21 million
Contact Us
Andrew Wood
Project Manager
WSDOT State Rail & Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360-705-7938
E-mail: Andrew Wood
back to top