RICHLAND, Wash. – The Port of Benton took another step to improve its rail line.
The agency’s sixth railroad crossing replacement at State Route 240 was completed near Horn Rapids Road June 1, nearly 12 hours ahead of schedule, the port announced in a release.
The port said Sen. Matt Boehnke (R-Kennewick) played a key role by securing an $865,000 grant from the National Highway Freight Program through the Washington State Department of Transportation. The Port of Benton contributed nearly $800,000 in matching funds.
“Port of Benton’s rail line is vital for our region’s industries, and the funding support secured by Sen. Boehnke was pivotal for this construction project,” said Diahann Howard, the port’s executive director.
The construction, which started on May 29, involved replacing the entire rail crossing, including the installation of new concrete panels, pavement, a signal cabinet, cantilevers and new track and ties.
Previous replacements include crossings at Airport Way, Saint Street, Kingsgate Way, State Route 224/Van Giesen, and Swift Blvd./Cemetery Drive.
The port said the improvements have increased track speeds from 5 to 10 mph, with future projects aiming to upgrade the rail line to Class 2 track, allowing speeds up to 25 mph and reducing wait times for drivers.
One more crossing at Steptoe Street remains to be replaced. The port will collaborate with the City of Richland later this year to complete it, the release added.
