USDOT announces grants for upgrades to WA rail systems
By Dan Thesman on Thursday, October 31st, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced grants to fund infrastructure upgrades to Washington rail systems. The grants come from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program, which funds projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.
WATCO Companies received $19.8 million to replace diesel locomotives with battery electric, zero emission locomotives at their facilities, including the Packaging Corporation of America facility in Wallula.
The Columbia Basin Railroad Company, which operates between Moses Lake and Connell, received $11.5 million to rehabilitate approximately 10 miles of railroad line. That railroad serves over 50 businesses, including farmers and exports, across five Eastern Washington counties.
Photo via A.J. Burgess
