Port of Benton Achieves Class 1 Track Status
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Port of Benton
RICHLAND, Wash. - Port of Benton's railroad track has achieved Class 1 track status after the completion of major construction.
Port of Benton released the news, marking it a “major rail infrastructure milestone” as it affords the Port more flexibility in serving customers without track restrictions. The line, acquired from the U.S. Department of Energy in 1998, spans the UP mainline from Kennewick to Horn Rapids Industrial Park. According to the Port of Benton, this port has invested in bolstering the track since 2015. Recently, crews installed 3,400 rail ties and replaced five road crossings. On October 20, the Port of Benton will hold a “rail information night” to go over the upgrades.
As of reporting, the Port of Benton says it is in the process of contracting a $9.56 million federal grant through the BUILD program. Port of Benton says, if granted, this funding would go along with $2.4 million in matching funding to replace 4 miles of track, upgrade two crossings, and install 9,000 ties. The track is currently 75 years old. The upgrades are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027 and will “allow the track classification to increase to Class 2 status.”
Port of Benton Executive Director Diahann Howard said, “This investment marks a transformative moment for our region’s infrastructure. . . We’re not only improving safety and efficiency but also laying the groundwork for future economic growth.”
