The Port of Longview is launching a $10 million Industrial Rail Corridor expansion project that will increase cargo-movement efficiency for existing and future customers. “This rail project strategically positions us for growth in the big picture,” said Geir-Eilif Kalhagen, the Port’s Chief Executive Officer. “It will make a huge difference to our customers who rely on rail service.” In 2016, the Port plans to add one more track and two 7,000-foot sidings to the Industrial Rail Corridor’s existing two tracks. The additional capacity will allow three simultaneous train movements as well as storage of two unit trains on the side tracks. The Port will build the project in phases using local labor from trade unions. “With the extra capacity, customers will be able to move their cargos in and out of the Port more efficiently than ever before, giving the Port of Longview an even greater competitive advantage,” Kalhagen said. The Industrial Rail Corridor connects to BNSF Railway’s main line, which is also used by Union Pacific Railroad. In 2005, the Port finished a 10-year, $21 million dedicated rail corridor project that allowed unit train delivery to the Port without intersecting any roadways or otherwise blocking vehicular traffic. That rail project was critical to attracting a $230 million export grain terminal to the Port. The Port of Longview’s key transportation connections to the deep-draft Columbia River shipping channel, rail and Interstate 5 have played a vital role in boosting the Port’s ranking to third-largest in Washington State.