March 2007: Dispatches
VANCOUVER
One of the West Coast’s major rail yards is set to
increase by 34.3 acres by 2009. The Port of Vancouver began purchasing
land last month for a new rail line that will help alleviate
current congestion on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe line
while also preparing for future business. According to port
officials, more than 70% of cargo passing through the port is
by rail. That number is expected to increase with the proposed
Columbia Gateway project. A new rail line will also decrease
train delays on the main line. The expansion plan at the port
also includes an offline rail car storage area, 50 new jobs,
and an opportunity for further development in industrial areas
to the south and east of the current BNSF rail yard.
An increasing population is fueling a construction boom in
Clark County. A new $40 million retail development known as
Grand Central will
serve those new residents, especially those in the downtown and
southwest area of the city. One of the main attractions at the
shopping center will be a 135,000-square-foot Fred Meyer. The site, developed by
Killian Pacific, and
leased by MBM
Properties, will also feature eight other buildings and
an additional 20-25 tenants, according to Mert Meeker,
president of MBM. Construction begins in early summer 2007 and
is expected to wrap by March 2008.
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