Some councilmembers prefer state-rejected rail route

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake City Council listened to a presentation of a proposed train route and a rejected route Tuesday night during a council meeting.

The proposed route extends from Wheeler Road to Parker Horn and on toward the Grant County International Airport to branch out for future industrial development. The line near Parker Horn would be refurbished.

A route proposed by citizens was suggested to travel north of Moses Lake through residential and agricultural land.

Washington State Department of Transportation State Rail and Marine Deputy Director Andrew Wood presented an explanation of why a northern route, as suggested by citizens, would not be a viable option for the city. He said the department of transportation's only participation in the project was to conduct a feasibility study and an environmental study.

The proposed route still available is the route along Wheeler Road to Parker Horn and on toward the airport. The tracks are rated for speeds of 10 and 25 mph, and railroad officials project having less than one train a day using the tracks.

Councilmember Dick Deane said he didn't like the proposed rail line because it goes through the city.

He said the rail line will divide the city and would rather have the service go north of the city.

Deane said the issue should be studied more.

Councilmember James Liebrecht asked if the service runs 24 hours to possibly avoid high traffic times.

Wood said the service will most likely operate during business hours to accommodate the businesses.

"Compromise is really going to be the word of the day," Mayor Ron Covey said.

He said each entity representing the rail line issue has similar goals; to find a solution to accommodate everyone in the best way possible.

Columbia Basin Railroad President Brig Temple said without the railroad service, industrial business would not be as attracted to Moses Lake.

He said portions of the rail line running through the city are not sustainable and once the new rail line is developed, he may consider selling the current line property to the city.