How many ports can offer direct access to both BNSF and Union Pacific (UP), have the capacity for large-scale new business, are price-competitive and foster a working partnership with customers, management and labor?
"That's what gives the Port of Olympia Seaport a strong competitive advantage and why we are excited about the future there," said Bryan Reilly, Manager of Sales and Marketing for Olympia & Belmore Railroad (OYLO), a Genesee & Wyoming (G&W) company.
G&W, which operates 113 short line and regional railroads around the country and provides vital first- or last-mile service for shippers, acquired the operating rights for OYLO in 2016. OYLO currently serves the Port of Olympia.
"OYLO connects to the national freight-rail network via BNSF in East Olympia and handles BNSF's UP-handling carrier trackage rights," Reilly said.
Reilly noted that the Port also accommodates on-dock rail service, offers cargo storage and laydown areas, and provides a host of other services. A continuous rail loop throughout the Port's marine terminal complex allows the free flow of cargo in and out of the facility. The rail loop is designed to handle a single unit train as well as smaller sets of railcars. (See map below.)
"OYLO currently moves a variety of commodities, including building and construction materials, food and kindred products, metals and plastics," Reilly said. "I believe the Port of Olympia can compete for new business and grow tremendously, particularly in the shipping of bulk-related commodities, such as agricultural products. The Port has the capacity to take on that next big-business opportunity. Add in extensive transportation access, competitive pricing and the highest level of customer service, and you've got a formula for success."
And, like the Port of Olympia, G&W considers the environment. "Every railcar equals about three to four trucks," Reilly said. "Our railway takes a lot of trucks off the road, reducing congestion and improving air quality."
Going forward, Reilly is enthusiastic about economic development opportunities at the Port of Olympia. "Having a vibrant Port not only creates family-wage jobs, but also connects you to the world," he said.
