Project Overview
The Industrial Rail Corridor is a $21 million Port of Longview rail infrastructure project that provides more efficient rail transportation to and from the Port's industrial sites and marine facilities. It improves the connection between the BNSF Railway and Union Pacific main lines and increases the safety of overall rail traffic.The total project consists of an overpass and 3.2 miles of rail trackage from the Longview Switching yard to the Port of Longview.

In January 2005 the first trains began moving on the Industrial Rail Corridor, carrying over 225,000 tons of soda ash to the Port's Berth 2 terminal.

In October 2005 the American Association of Port Authorities awarded the project an honorable mention in the Facilities Engineering Competition. This competition recognizes outstanding results in completed engineering projects at public port authorities.

"Developing efficient inland freight connections is essential to serving our customers and remaining competitive as a deep-water port."
Ken O'Hollaren, Executive Director, Port of Longview

Project Phases

• Phase I - construction of an overpass at Fibre Way was completed and dedicated in March 2002.
• Phase II - construction of 1.8 miles of rail line was completed and dedicated in October 2004.
• Phase III - construction of 1.4 miles of rail siding is under construction.

Brief History
The rail corridor is one of the major components of the Port's overall plan to diversify cargo operations and develop industrial land for new customers. In the1990s the Port purchased 300 acres of industrial property and began planning for construction of a rail line that would serve future customers on the property as well as provide more efficient rail service to the marine terminals. The project will position the Port for future growth and yield substantial economic benefits for the area.

Funding
Funding for the rail corridor has been provided by Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) funds.The State of Washington provided Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board funds and Transportation Improvement Board funds. Cowlitz County provided a $2 million rail grant. The state Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) provided a $1 million low-interest loan for Phase III construction. The Port of Longview also provided funding.

Port worker installs rail lines

- Rail Corridor Wins AAPA Award   - Rail Corridor Open for Business   - Port Dedicates Rail Corridor   - Port Receives $1 Million CERB Program Loan   - Port Receives $2 Million Rail Grant