The Port of Benton in Richland, Washington, has recently reached a significant milestone by achieving Class 1 track status for its railroad infrastructure. This advancement is poised to boost the local economy significantly by enhancing the efficiency and safety of rail transport for various industrial customers in the region.
### Overview of Rail Upgrades
The railroad line, which extends from the Union Pacific mainline near Columbia Center Mall in Kennewick to the Horn Rapids Industrial Park, was acquired from the U.S. Department of Energy in 1998. This line already supports the shipment of approximately 1.3 million tons of goods annually, with a focus on transporting products such as frozen fries and feed for local dairies.
Since 2015, the Port of Benton has actively worked to revitalize its rail infrastructure. This effort includes the replacement of five road crossings and the installation of 3,400 new rail ties. These upgrades not only improve the reliability of the rail service but also enhance safety for both trains and vehicles that use these crossings.
### Upcoming Enhancements
Currently, the Port is seeking a $9.56 million federal grant through the RAISE program, which has been rebranded as the 2025 BUILD program. With an additional $2.4 million in matching funds, the proposed upgrades are ambitious. The plan includes replacing four miles of outdated track, upgrading two additional rail crossings, and installing 9,000 more ties. If successful, these improvements will elevate the track to Class 2 status, allowing train speeds of up to 25 mph.
By completing these upgrades by the end of 2027, the Port aims to significantly improve the efficiency of rail transport within the region, thereby reducing vehicle delays at crossings and enhancing safety measures. As highlighted by Diahann Howard, the Port of Benton executive director, this investment represents a transformative moment for local infrastructure, focusing not only on safety and efficiency but also on laying a robust foundation for future economic growth.
### Economic Impact
The upgrades to the Port’s rail infrastructure are expected to have a direct impact on the local economy. Improved rail services mean that local businesses can transport goods more efficiently and at lower costs. The Port serves various industrial customers, and an enhanced rail system will allow for increased shipping capacity which can be a game-changer for sectors like agriculture and manufacturing.
Furthermore, an efficient rail system attracts new businesses to the area, creating job opportunities and boosting regional economic development. As transportation costs decrease and reliability improves, companies will be more likely to establish operations in the Richland area, subsequently stimulating growth in related sectors.
### Community Engagement
To engage with the community about these developments, the Port will host a Rail Information Night on Monday, October 20, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at its rail facility located at 2579 Stevens Drive, Richland. This event will offer community members an opportunity to learn more about the planned improvements and how they will benefit the region.
### Conclusion
The Port of Benton’s rail upgrades are a crucial step toward enhancing the local infrastructure and supporting the economic growth of Richland and its surrounding areas. By achieving Class 1 track status and planning to elevate to Class 2, the Port is not only improving safety and efficiency but also paving the way for future development opportunities. Businesses in the region stand to benefit greatly from these upgrades, making Richland an increasingly attractive location for industrial operations.
As the Port progresses with these enhancements, the broader community looks forward to the positive changes these investments will bring, both in terms of safety and economic vitality. The active engagement of the community during events like the Rail Information Night indicates a collaborative spirit that will support the successful realization of these important infrastructure projects.
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