Commission makes expansion of infrastructure key priority for 2018 Longview, WA– The Port of Longview’s Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the 2018 Budget, which includes significant investments in the expansion of the Port’s Industrial Rail Corridor (IRC) and infrastructure development at Barlow Point. These investments capitalize on previous year’s momentum of multiyear projects that will bring increased economic growth to our industry and new opportunities for customers. Connecting mainline rail with the Port, the IRC plays a key role in Port operations. The expansion project includes adding seven additional tracks to the system, bringing the IRC to a total of nine tracks. This additional capacity will allow trains to move simultaneously, add storage for unit trains on sidings and accommodate the growing length of trains. In 2018, the Port plans to invest $952,000 towards the planning and engineering of this project. In addition to the IRC expansion, the Port has earmarked $300,000 toward the planning of a new entrance at Barlow Point, a 280+ acre parcel available for development. Directly on the deep-draft navigation channel of the Columbia River, Barlow Point holds incredible potential for business opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. “In 2017, we focused on laying the ground work for major infrastructure improvements,” said Commission President Doug Averett. “This year, we are capitalizing on that momentum and continuing to move forward on these key projects. My fellow Commissioners and I want to emphasize the importance of continued growth and expansion for our industry and customers.” Overall, the Port’s 2018 General Fund Operating Budget is $31.1 million and the Capital Projects Budget is set at $5.1 million.