“These investments in intercity passenger and freight rail will benefit surrounding communities, make grade crossings safer and improve service reliability,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao. The CRISI Program funds a wide range of projects that improve the safety, efficiency and reliability of passenger and freight rail in the United States. Grant funding was awarded to 45 projects in 29 states, with Port Freeport being the sole recipient from Texas.
“The rail project is a key strategic initiative for Port Freeport that will enhance landside accessibility and provide supply chain efficiencies to support the economic expansion occurring in the region and state of Texas,” said Phyllis Saathoff, Port Freeport Executive Director/CEO. “We are excited to have the support from the Federal Railroad Administration for the advancement of this key infrastructure project.”
The second phase of the rail project will include the addition of approximately 24,000 feet of four main tracks adjacent to the recently constructed 21,000 linear feet of track parallel to State Highway 36. The first phase of the Parcel 14 Rail Development will be completed this month with an official ribbon-cutting scheduled for June 28th.
The site will be developed into a multimodal industrial park with warehouse space and distribution facilities, as well as areas for new vehicle processing and storage for the recently announced Horizon Terminal Services expansion.
Union Pacific Railroad will offer manifest train service on the new rail infrastructure and unit train service at full project completion.
“Port Freeport is excited to be awarded this federal grant for the second phase of the rail project which will support the needs of our current and future port users and create more jobs in Brazoria County. We would like to extend our appreciation to Senator John Cornyn, Congressman Randy Weber, and state House Speaker, Dennis Bonnen for their support of this Project,” said Port Freeport Chairman Paul Kresta. “This added funding will allow the Port to move forward with the overall development plan for the multi-modal site on a more accelerated schedule.”
Nationally, Port Freeport is ranked 10th in chemicals, 19th in total tonnage, and 26th in containers. The Freeport Harbor Channel serves BASF, Chiquita Fresh N.A., CMA CGM, Dole Fresh Fruit, The Dow Chemical Company, Freeport LNG, Hoegh Autoliners. Horizon Terminal Services, Mammoet, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Phillips 66, Riviana Foods, Inc., Seaway Crude Pipeline Company, Sallaum Lines, Tenaris, and Vulcan Materials Company.
Port Freeport is committed to keeping the local community informed of our operation and results. If you have questions or comments about this article, please email or call Lauren McCormick, Public Affairs Manager at mccormick@portfreeport.com.
