Port Rail Grabs Full Control of Leased Louisiana Railroad Tracks
Published Date: 8/14/2025
Notice
Summary
Port Rail, Inc. is officially stepping up to run two railroad tracks in Lake Charles, Louisiana, that it’s been leasing since 2016. Starting soon, they’ll operate these tracks as a common carrier, meaning they’ll offer regular rail service to customers. This change won’t cost anyone extra or change the lease terms, but it opens the door for more rail action in the area!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Port Rail Begins Common-Carrier Service
Port Rail, Inc. will begin operating approximately 13.59 miles of track in Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, as a common carrier on or after August 28, 2025. As a common carrier, Port Rail will offer regular rail service to customers on the East Industrial Track (about 0.99 miles) and the South Industrial Track (about 12.6 miles).
Lease Terms Remain Unchanged
Port Rail has leased these tracks from the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District since 2016 and amended and extended the lease agreements in 2025. Port Rail states that no further changes to those lease agreements are required or contemplated in connection with its operation of the tracks as a common carrier.
Excluded from Environmental and Historic Review
The Board notes that Port Rail's operation of the Subject Track is categorically excluded from environmental review under 49 CFR 1105.6(c) and from historic preservation reporting requirements under 49 CFR 1105.8(b). This means no environmental or historic-preservation reports are required for this exemption.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-17360, Switzer-Carty Transportation US, Inc., et al.-Acquisition of Control-Agnes Corporation
On July 27, 2026, Switzer-Carty Transportation US, Inc. (SCT- US), a noncarrier, together with its shareholders (collectively, Applicants), none of which are federally regulated carriers, filed an application to acquire control of Agnes Corporation (Agnes), a noncarrier that serves as a holding company for several interstate passenger motor carriers. Agnes is owned and controlled by eight individuals (collectively, Sellers). The Board is tentatively approving and authorizing the transaction. If no opposing comments are timely filed, this notice will be the final Board action.
2026-17004, Notice of Rail Energy Transportation Advisory Committee Vacancies
The Surface Transportation Board is looking to fill two open spots on its Rail Energy Transportation Advisory Committee—one for biofuel experts and one for coal producers. If you or someone you know fits the bill, nominations are due by September 17, 2026. This is a great chance to help shape how energy moves by rail, with no cost to apply and a voice in important transportation decisions.
2026-16620, Regulatory Agenda
The Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board (STB or Board) is publishing the Regulatory Flexibility Agenda.
2026-16276, Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad, Inc.-Acquisition and Operation Exemption-State of South Dakota
2026-16109, Release of Waybill Data
2026-16128, Town of Gloster, Miss.-Acquisition Exemption-Line of Gloster Southern Railroad Company, LLC
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-15392, Public Meeting for the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area Advisory Council
The San Rafael Swell Recreation Area Advisory Council is holding a public meeting to talk about how to keep the area fun and safe for everyone. If you love outdoor adventures or live nearby, this is your chance to hear updates and share your ideas. The meeting helps guide decisions that could affect local recreation and land use, with no immediate costs but plenty of future impact.
Next: 2025-15394, Notice of Inventory Completion Amendment: University of Florida, Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville, FL
The University of Florida’s Florida Museum of Natural History updated its list of Native American tribes connected to certain cultural items. This change affects tribes recognized under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). No money or deadlines are involved, but it helps make sure the right groups are honored and involved.