Blaine secured $66 million in federal funding through the Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program to build the Bell Road overpass over BNSF tracks. (Map: City of Blaine)
BLAINE, Wash. — Blaine has secured $66 million in federal funding to build the Bell Road overpass over BNSF Railway tracks.
The Federal Railroad Administration awarded the grant through its Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program. The city announced the award Oct. 29.
The project will carry Bell Road and State Route 548 over the tracks. As a result, drivers will avoid delays caused by passing trains. The overpass will also improve emergency access and reduce congestion.
“This investment brings us closer to an overpass our community has needed for years. Residents and businesses deserve a dependable way to cross the tracks, and our first responders need reliable access when every minute matters. We are grateful to our federal partners, BNSF, and everyone who has helped move this project forward.”
— Mary Lou Steward, Blaine Mayor
Bell Road Overpass Will Replace Existing Crossing
The existing railroad crossing sits about three miles south of the U.S.-Canada border. Both BNSF freight trains and Amtrak Cascades passenger trains use the corridor.
However, southbound freight trains slow near a federal rail inspection facility. As a result, trains block the crossing and create traffic backups on nearby roads.
The city’s grant application estimates that trains occupy the crossing for a combined 96 minutes daily. Drivers also face delays while traffic clears after trains pass.
The new overpass will cross the tracks south of the existing crossing. In addition, the project includes a new roundabout and redesigned road connections.
Those connections will link Bell Road, SR 548, Peace Portal Drive and Interstate 5. The project will also extend the multiuse path along Peace Portal Drive. Furthermore, a new route will allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the overpass.
Once the project is complete, the city will close the existing at-grade railroad crossing.
Project Aims to Improve Emergency Access
Separating road traffic from trains will improve access for emergency responders, school buses and public transit. The project will also make travel more predictable for residents and businesses.
Meanwhile, the improvements are expected to support regional commerce along the international rail corridor.
The $66 million award builds on earlier federal funding for preliminary engineering and environmental review. The city said the project follows more than a decade of planning and coordination.
Final Design and Construction Planning Ahead
Next, the city will work with the Washington State Department of Transportation, BNSF Railway and federal partners. Together, they will advance final design and construction planning.
However, the city has not announced a construction start date or projected completion date.
The Federal Railroad Administration administers the Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program. The program funds projects that improve safety and mobility at railroad crossings.
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