The Columbia Basin Railroad (CBRW) announced it has donated Segment 3 of its rail line to the Port of Moses Lake as part of the development for the Northern Columbia Basin Railroad Project.
The donation will enhance rail connectivity and support regional economic growth, the railroad said and will benefit the industrial, food processing and agricultural areas in the region.
“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 Brig Temple, President/CEO of Columbia Basin Railroad. “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.”
The railroad segment spans an estimated 3 miles, and its refurbishment is part of the effort to expand rail service in the Moses Lake area. The project includes construction and rehabilitation of nearly 8 miles of rail corridor, connecting the CBRW line in Wheeler to the Grant County International Airport and industrial land along the Wheeler Industrial Corridor, officials said.
The project is funding with state and federal money and will involve constructing to new rail lines. The line will span from Wheeler Road to the Grant County airport and on to the northern industrial areas. Officials said the project will boost the region’s freight capacity and enhance economic viability for local industries.
“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,” Dan Roach, executive director of the Port of Moses Lake, said.