State eyes expanded rail access

Wed., March 1, 2006

Associated Press The Spokesman-Review

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Eastern Washington farmers may get expanded rail service to East Coast markets under a project included in spending plans in the state House and Senate.

Railex, a New York-based shipping company, has proposed building an $18 million to $20 million distribution center in Wallula, southeast of the Tri-Cities.

The Port of Walla Walla is trying to secure $7.5 million to buy land, provide water service and build a road and rail loop to support the proposed center.

The port already has received $3.2 million in grants and loans from the state and federal governments. The port asked the state for an additional $3.5 million but expects to pay the balance.

The transportation spending plan introduced in the House on Monday included all $3.5 million.

In the Senate, lawmakers put $2.5 million in their transportation budget and another $1 million in their construction budget. The differences are expected to be ironed out before the sessions ends March 9.

“We’re very pleased,” port Director Jim Kuntz said. “We absolutely had to have state funds.”

The distribution center is expected to employ about 100 people in its first year.

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