West Coast Reduction expands rail capacity at Vancouver port

Representatives from the Canadian government, West Coast Reduction Ltd. and Port Metro Vancouver yesterday marked the completion of a rail unloading capacity expansion project at West Coast Reduction's facility in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Work now is complete on the project's first two phases that involved upgrades to rail lines and the piping system between the lines and pump house. A third phase calling for upgrades to the piping system between the pump house and marine vessel berths is scheduled to start soon and conclude in March 2015.

The completed work will enable West Coast Reduction to increase the number of rail cars that can be unloaded simultaneously at the port facility from 16 to 24, boosting canola oil handling capacity by about 50 percent, company officials said in a press release.

The facility's expanded capacity will bolster the transportation of agricultural products — particularly canola oil — that are exported from Western Canada to Asia-Pacific markets, Canadian government officials said, adding that the project will improve intermodal efficiency, boost economic development and enhance trade.

The government provided about $2.8 million for the $11 million rail project, with the balance provided by West Coast Reduction.

"This partnership and joint investment allowed for the expansion of an essential gateway for vegetable oils to be exported to Asia-Pacific markets from our Port Metro Vancouver facility, supporting Canada's canola oil industry and helping to secure high-quality jobs throughout the agricultural supply chain, including jobs at our terminal here in Vancouver," said West Coast Reduction President and Chief Executive Officer Barry Glotman.