Cl County RR Advisory Board
March 9, 2026
Via ZOOM
Observer: Nancy Halvorson
Agenda: https://clark.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2026-03/03_09_2026-agenda.pdf
Highlights:
BCYX – details on Mother’s Day weekend
Also Train Robber Train on May 3rd for Yacolt celebration
Non-profit rail run, May 5th
County Activities:
Still working with a contractor’s paperwork - one month out to get work started
Appointee recommendations going to Council and County Mgr for approval
Need a certificate of permission to get a special BCYX train event
Inspection of tunnel and bridges coming up above milepost 18, starting in April
David Rowe re I-5 bridge replacement study regarding long-range investments and how it impacts rail traffic. If they are working across the river (PDX area) with their local access line, maybe Cl Co can learn things from their work. Would like to see regional rail across the river, not light rail. Read a letter that Rep Ley received from someone that the I-5 bridge has NOT been approved by the Coast Guard. ** Note from staff, verified that the Coast Guard does approve a fixed span up to 116 feet (vertical clearance – height of water to bottom of bridge) – extended conversation. Present clearance of 179 feet.
Staff did drop into chat the actual letter from the Coast Guard. 116 clearance approved and still need to go through further permitting so final height may not be set. (are we a bit off topic here?)
S5820: has been sent to the governor’s desk to be signed.
If signed, no options at all for new development outside of the UGA
(for rail use). Vice Chairman put the responsibility of this decision on Mr. Temple (PVJR)
Anything that was approved by 5517 (original bill) may or may not be grandfathered in – question about one parcel (300 or so acres) which had been determined to be used for freight rail dependent use (FRDU). Part of this parcel is Lagler land. No development designations were ever set for that property.
Open House Planning:
how many open houses?
Maybe go to existing events and to tabling, i.e., Farmers Markets –
may be able to reach more people this way.
Presentation at a local museum, Pomeroy Farm
The actual presentation is on the Clark County website
Speak to neighborhood associations
Timing – summer probably best to allow time for preparation
Adjourn 4:52 pm