MOSES LAKE, Wash. — The Columbia Basin Railroad has donated about 3 miles of rail line to the Port of Moses Lake, aiding the port’s effort to expand its rail network as part of the North Columbia Basin Railroad Project.
The project seeks to rebuild or rehabilitate approximately 8 miles of rail line, restoring rail service that ended in 2009. It will connect the existing Columbia Basin Railroad line at Wheeler, Wash., to Grant County International Airport and about 1,250 acres of industrial property along the Wheeler Industrial Corridor. It has received state and federal funding for construction of Segments 1 and 2 of the project; the donated rail line, Segment 3, is currently inactive and will be refurbished.
“We are thankful to Columbia Basin Railroad for their donation of Segment 3,” Dan Roach, executive director of the Port of Moses Lake, said in a press release. “This donation will play a pivotal role in helping the Port to enhance the rail infrastructure as well as to support industrial and economic development of Moses Lake and the area.”
The Port Commission accepted the donation at its March 10 meeting.
“This collaboration with Columbia Basin Railroad brings us closer to our goal of restored and enhanced logistical connectivity and efficiency, which will greatly benefit local industries and our community,” Darrin Jackson, commission president, said in a press release.
Expected benefits of the project include opening up lakefront development opportunities in downtown Moses Lake, and enhanced access to nearby industrial areas. It is anticipated to attract rail-dependent businesses, support regional economic development, and reduce wear and tear on roadways.
“We are proud to support the Northern Columbia Basin Railroad Project by donating Segment 3 of our rail line to the Port of Moses Lake,” said Columbia Basin Railroad CEO Brig Temple. “This project will not only enhance rail connectivity but also contribute to the economic vitality of the Moses Lake area by improving access to vital industries and creating new job opportunities.”
