Washington state port seeks bids for freight-rail project

The Port of Kalama, Wash., is accepting bids for the Kalama Rail Expansion-North Extension project until Dec. 6.

The $10.6 million project calls for installing 3.6 miles of lead and yard tracks, and relocating 1.1 miles of track. Existing tracks will be shifted west and two new arrival tracks will be built. The work also includes the relocation of turnouts and installation of a grade crossing.

TEMCO L.L.C. plans to expand its export grain facility at the port, which is served by BNSF Railway Co. and Union Pacific Railroad. The facility currently can process one unit train over the existing dump pit. The project will enable TEMCO to process two unit trains simultaneously, port officials said in a project summary.

Port officials expect to award the construction contract in December. Work is slated to start in January and be completed by mid-June 2014.