Portland Railroad Locks In Union Pacific Lease Extension
Published Date: 4/25/2025
Notice
Summary
Portland & Western Railroad (PNWR) is keeping its lease to run about 47 miles of rail lines in Oregon from Union Pacific (UP). This means PNWR will continue operating these tracks with some updated lease terms, keeping trains rolling smoothly without any big changes in costs or timing. The deal keeps local freight moving and honors past agreements, so no surprises for the communities or businesses relying on these rails.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Rail lease and operations continue in Oregon
Portland & Western Railroad (PNWR) will continue to lease and operate about 47.20 miles of rail in Oregon: the 23.91-mile Tillamook Branch, the 9.45-mile Westside-Seghers Branch, and the 14.32-mile Newberg Branch. PNWR filed the verified notice (filed Apr 11, 2025, Docket No. FD 36826) and will remain the operator on these lines.
Waiver sought for 60‑day labor notice
PNWR certifies its current annual revenues exceed $5,000,000 and, because projected revenues exceed the $5 million threshold, would normally have to give 60 days' advance labor notice; PNWR has petitioned the Board for a waiver of that 60‑day advance labor notice. Petitions to stay must be filed by May 2, 2025, and the Board will set the exemption's effective date in a separate decision.
Lease includes interchange commitment
The amended lease between PNWR and Union Pacific includes an interchange commitment that pertains to interchange with carriers other than Union Pacific. PNWR provided the additional interchange information required by 49 CFR 1150.43(h) and submitted portions of the amended lease under seal.
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