Washington state port advances rail corridor expansion project

The Port of Longview, Wash., is launching a $10 million industrial rail corridor expansion project aimed at increasing cargo-movement efficiency for existing and future port customers.
 
In 2016, the port plans to add one track and two 7,000-foot sidings to the industrial rail corridor’s existing two tracks. The corridor connects to BNSF Railway Co.’s mainline, which also is used by Union Pacific Railroad.

To be built in phases, the additional rail capacity will allow three simultaneous train movements and accommodate the storage of two unit trains on the sidings, port officials said in a press release.

"This rail project strategically positions us for growth … [and] will make a huge difference to our customers who rely on rail service," said Geir-Eilif Kalhagen, the port's chief executive officer. "With the extra capacity, customers will be able to move their cargos in and out of the port more efficiently than ever before, giving [us] an even greater competitive advantage."
 
In 2005, the port completed a 10-year, $21 million dedicated rail corridor project that enabled unit-train deliveries. The project was critical to attracting a $230 million export grain terminal to the Longview marine facility, port officials said.