Overview
The Tacoma Rail Yard receives and departs hundreds of trains through its switching yard located in Tacoma.
Without an automated system, railroad operational procedures, personnel safety procedures, and federal regulations all require that Class I train crews stop the train, disembark, and activate each switch by hand. This is done to ensure the tracks are properly aligned prior to advancing the train. This antiquated process is very time consuming and may block the yard's arrival and departure tracks for extended periods of time.
This project installed an automated switching system that will substantially increase yard capacity, through-put velocity, and safety.
 | Improves Safety
Creates a safer situation for employees.
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 | Relieves Congestion
Prevents backups at highway/railroad grade-crossings.
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 | Economic Incentive
Delivers products more efficiently.
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Partnerships & Cooperation
This project was done in cooperation with Tacoma Rail, City of Tacoma, and the Port of Tacoma.
Funding
This project was funded through the following sources:
- Port District and City of Tacoma - $350,000
- Pre-Existing State Funds - $500,000
- Total Funding from all Sources - $850,000
Contact Us
Jeff Schultz, PMP
Project Manager
State Rail and Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360-705-7981
E-mail: Jeff Schultz
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