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USK – The Port of Pend Oreille received a $75,000 Community Economic Revitalization Board grant from the state of Washington to conduct a feasibility study on reopening the rail line between Usk and Metaline Falls, according to the Washington State Revitalization Board.
This project consists of a feasibility study to evaluate the rehabilitation and reopening of the North Pend Oreille Valley Railroad, from Cusick to Metaline Falls. CERB funds are matched by $18,750 in local resources according to the state Department of Commerce website.
The grant will fund professional assessments and technical evaluations to determine the true cost and requirements for restoring both passenger and freight rail service along the historic corridor. Engineering and rail industry experts will provide crucial insights into the physical improvements needed to make the line operational again, according to a news release from the Port.
The rail line north of Usk has been out of service for years, but renewed interest in rail transportation and its economic benefits have sparked this initiative, the Port said in the news release.
“We are excited to move forward with the CERB feasibility study and explore the tremendous economic opportunities that renewed rail service could bring to our region, “ said Jessica Garza, Economic Development Director for the Port of Pend Oreille. “Both passenger and freight rail service could transform what businesses can operate here and attract new investment to Pend Oreille County.”
The grant follows ongoing discussions between the Port and the Kalispel Tribe of Indians regarding the significant economic development potential the project could bring to Pend Oreille County and future partnership opportunities.
While the Port will lead the feasibility study, both the Port and the Tribe share a vision for how restored rail service could benefit the entire county.
“The Kalispel Tribe is thrilled to work alongside the Port to explore opportunities that will highlight the beauty of the Pend Oreille River Valley and enhance tourism and promotion of this region,” Kalispel Tribal Council Vice Chair Curt Holmes said in the Port’s news release. “The Tribe has always been committed to supporting economic development and growth in the area. This unique opportunity could bring a wide range of benefits to the community, while also allowing us to share our Tribe’s history and highlight the beautiful natural resources that surround us and our efforts to preserve them.”
The potential economic impacts include enhanced tourism opportunities with scenic rail excursions through the Pend Oreille Valley, recreational rail activities that could attract visitors from across the region, improved transportation options for residents, reduced shipping costs for businesses and the attraction of new industries that rely on rail access. The picturesque route between Usk and Metaline Falls offers potential for heritage tourism and outdoor recreation connections.
The Kalispel Tribe has called the region home since time immemorial and has always been committed to improving the economy and vibrancy of Pend Oreille County. The Tribe has become one of the largest county employers, operating Kalispel Casino, the Camas Center for Community Wellness, and the Camas Medical Clinic.
Tribal businesses serve residents of the entire community, not just tribal members.
Garza said that the Port is committed to conducting thorough research to ensure any future decisions are based on solid data and realistic projections.
“This CERB funded study represents the significant first step in what could be a transformative project for Pend Oreille County,” Garza said in the news release.
Both the Port and the Kalispel Tribe are committed to keeping the community informed throughout the study process. Public input and community feedback will be important components if the project moves forward after the study results are received, according to the news release.
‘The Kalispel Tribe is thrilled to work alongside the Port to explore opportunities that will highlight the beauty of the Pend
Oreille River Valley and enhance tourism and promotion of this region.’
Curt Holmes
Kalispel Tribal Council Vice Chair
