Port Rail Anniversary, Dec. 24

Port of Coos Bay release – On November 1, 2018, the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay (Port) initiated operation of the Coos Bay Rail Line (CBRL). As both owner and operator of the CBRL, the Port is committed to ensuring safe and reliable rail service for shippers moving goods in and out of the region. The Port purchased the line in 2010 after the 2007 embargo. Since that time the Port has continuously invested in rail infrastructure to maintain the long-term vitality of the rail line. Pairing ownership and operation has facilitated a more holistic business approach through dovetailing maintenance and capital investment and providing more customized transportation and logistics solutions. A lot of progress has been made this past year in terms of infrastructure work done on the line. CBRL welcomed 17 crew members on board including a dedicated maintenance of way team. Total repairs and maintenance done this year totals about $870,000 and includes replacing 1,300 ties, 12,800 spikes/fasteners, 1,500 tie plates and 3,200 other on track material. $14.5 million has been spent on capital improvement projects such as tunnel rehabilitation, Coos Bay swing span bridge repair, and timber bridge repairs. These investments are critical to effectively serve shippers along the line who provide 850 jobs to the regional economy and opens opportunity for future business development.