photoP16_webThe second phase of the “crown jewel” of the port’s West Vancouver Freight Access project is officially underway. The WVFA Project #16 Design Package 2A will construct a pile supported concrete structure for a south lead track, effectively creating a grade-separated new entrance into the southeast side of the Port of Vancouver.

When fully constructed, the project will allow full length unit trains to enter the port without impeding upon the existing North/South BNSF rail line that carries both freight and passenger trains almost continually throughout the day. Currently, each time a train enters the port, this line must remain clear while the train is “broken” into pieces that can be processed and staged throughout the terminal.

In 2007, the port received a grant from the Washington State Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board in the amount of $2.94 million to support this project of local, regional and national significance.

The port awarded a contract to Rotschy Inc. of Vancouver, WA in June for $9.4 million to construct the project that was designed in 2011 and 2012. Construction will begin this week and is expected to be complete in July 2014.

This exciting project will allow the port to continue to serve existing customers while attracting new business with the added capacity and efficiency that it provides. Initially, the project will include one new rail line, though the structure and foundation are designed to accommodate two rail lines, which will allow for future expansion to take advantage of new opportunities.