.png)
USK - The Port of Pend Oreille has been awarded a $1 million grant through the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board’s inaugural Rural Ports Program, the Port announced in a news release. CERB is a program of the state Department of Commerce.
“This funding is an important step to turning our vision of heritage rail tourism into reality, creating jobs, attracting visitors, and diversifying our economy,” Port commissioner Kim Gentle said in the news release. “We’re honored to be a part of CERB’s first Rural Ports Program awards.”
The $1.25 million project will rehabilitate approximately five miles of track between Usk and Cusick, repairs the Birdhouse Crossing at Highway 20, and adds operational rail capacity to support tourism-focused passenger service. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, with completion targeted for 2028.
The project represents Phase 1 of the Port’s broader vision of restored rail service throughout North Pend Oreille County, with a separate CERB-funded feasibility study examining potential northern extension to Metaline Falls.
The non-taxing Port district is providing more than $220,000 in match funding, including materials and cash contributions, with an additional $25,000 from a Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission safety grant.
The Port is partnering with the Kalispel Tribe of Indians to develop passenger excursion service that will showcase the region’s scenic beauty and create new tourism employment opportunities. The partnership builds on both organizations’ shared commitment to economic development and community vitality in Pend Oreille County, according to the news release.
The project follows the Port’s CERB- funded feasibility study announcement, which received enthusiastic public engagement, according to the news release. Community members, business leaders and county officials have expressed support at public meetings and through social media, recognizing the project’s potential.
The rehabilitation work returns currently out-ofservice track to operational condition, addressing years of deferred maintenance on this historic rail corridor. The project will create six -10 railroad operations positions and additional tourism and hospitality jobs in ticket sales, train hosting, and food service as operations expand. By establishing passenger rail service between Newport and the Kalispel Casino area, the project supports an economic sector for Pend Oreille County beyond its traditional forestry and resource-based industries.
In addition to economic benefits, the project enhances community safety through rehabilitation of the Birdhouse Crossing at Highway 20, addressing a critical vehicle-rail conflict point, and improves overall rail infrastructure safety for residents and visitors.
CERB’s Rural Ports Program, launched in 2025, provides infrastructure funding specifically for rural port districts to support economic development, enhance community vitality, and strengthen local tourism. The Port of Pend Oreille’s project is among the first awards under this program, which recognizes the role ports play in rural economic development.
