Rep. Peterson tours PortaCo’s Moorhead facility

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor

On Feb. 8 Rep. Collin Peterson's (D-MN-7) Chief of Staff Allison Myhre and Economic Development Officer Toni Merdan joined representatives from PortaCo to tour the company's Moorhead facility, learn about its various maintenance-of-way and railroad tools and discuss public policy priorities for the business and rail communities in western Minnesota. PortaCo employs 17 individuals.

 

The Railway Engineering-Maintenance and Suppliers Association (REMSA) coordinated the event. PortaCo’s President Chief Executive Officer Patrick Cronin led the tour. Also in attendance was Sean Winkler, grassroots coordinator at REMSA.

“A strong railroad industry, which continues to invest billions into its rail system, is vital to our company and state,” said Cronin. “We are thrilled to be joined by Rep. Peterson’s office and appreciate their willingness to learn more about our history and commitment to Moorhead, our role as a local manufacturer and as a member of the larger rail industry.”

PortaCo started operations more than 35 years ago in Moorhead as a manufacturer of hydraulic valves and manifolds. Since then, it has grown into a producer of hydraulic power units, tools and machines used in railway track construction and maintenance. PortaCo drew the attention of the Goldschmidt Thermit Group and since 2013, PortaCo has been a member of the Goldschmidt Thermit Group.

“As ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee, I understand that a strong and efficient railroad is crucial for Minnesota farmers and agricultural producers in getting their goods to market,” said Rep. Peterson. “I look forward to working with companies like PortaCo to continue to create efficient transportation options for Minnesota’s farmers.”

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