February 21, 2025

RICHLAND, Wash. – Crews will begin performing prep work on Saturday, Feb. 22, for a 10-day rail tie replacement project that starts on Wednesday. The project will have minimal impact on vehicle traffic, but it will delay train traffic.

Work will include replacing 3,400 rail ties along portions of Port of Benton’s rail line, which runs between Center Parkway in Kennewick and the Horn Rapids Industrial Park in Richland. Crews will also use tamping machines to pack and align stone ballast beneath the ties to align the track.

A $1.21 million grant from the Washington State Legislature via the Department of Commerce will fund the project.

“Continued improvements to the port’s rail line are vital to return it to Class 2 conditions, allowing increased speeds for freight trains,” said Diahann Howard, port executive director. “Increased speeds will reduce the time a train blocks an intersection, decreasing vehicle wait times and minimizing the impact to fire and emergency vehicles, greatly improving public safety.”

About Port of Benton

Port of Benton drives economic growth, development and private-sector investment in its district and the broader region through innovative projects and infrastructure improvements. The port’s airports, rail, business parks, industrial facilities and tourism and recreation attractions further enhance the region’s economic vitality. 

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