Washington SR 20 Grade Crossing Safety Project: 2026 Construction

Introduction

Washington State regulators have approved $25,000 in funding from the Grade Crossing Protective Fund (GCPF) for safety enhancements at the State Route 20 grade crossing near Usk in Pend Oreille County. The project, spearheaded by the Port of Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille Valley Railroad, aims to reconstruct the SR 20 crossing, with construction anticipated in the summer of 2026.

Project Funding and Scope

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) approved the $25,000 allocation from the Grade Crossing Protective Fund (GCPF). The total project cost is $150,000.

Project Participants

The Port of Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille Valley Railroad are leading the project. The Port will contribute $125,000 to the project.

Planned Improvements

The project focuses on the reconstruction of the rural crossing where State Route 20 intersects with the railway tracks. The improvements are intended to mitigate safety issues, including a significant dip in the roadway and inadequate drainage.

Timeline and Regulatory Oversight

Construction is anticipated to take six to eight weeks during the summer of 2026. The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) is responsible for regulating railroad safety, including the approval of new rail crossings and modifications to existing ones.

Conclusion

Washington state authorities have greenlit a funding initiative for safety enhancements at the SR 20 grade crossing near Usk, spearheaded by the Port of Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille Valley Railroad, with construction expected in the summer of 2026.

Company Summary

Port of Pend Oreille: The Port of Pend Oreille is involved in a project to improve safety at a grade crossing.

Pend Oreille Valley Railroad: The Pend Oreille Valley Railroad is collaborating with the Port of Pend Oreille on a safety improvement project.