Rail Line Lease Deal Moves Forward in Whitman County
Published Date: 6/18/2026
Notice
Summary
Washington, Idaho & Montana Railway LLC is set to lease and operate about 3.3 miles of rail line in Whitman County, Washington, from BLPIRR LLC starting July 4, 2026. This move won’t limit connections with other railroads and won’t create a bigger railroad company. The deal is expected to bring in less than $5 million a year, keeping things local and smooth.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Local 3.27‑Mile Rail Lease Starts July 4, 2026
Washington, Idaho & Montana Railway LLC will lease and operate about 3.27 miles of the WIM Industrial Lead plus a 950‑foot Peterson Crossover and a 2,075‑foot Peterson House Track in Whitman County, Washington, beginning July 4, 2026. If you are a local shipper or business in Whitman County that uses this track, the operator change will take effect on that date.
Interchange Rights Preserved for Local Shippers
The lease agreement does not include any commitments or provisions that would limit future interchange with third‑party connecting carriers. That means local businesses using the Line can continue to connect with other railroads after the lease begins.
Operator Expects Less Than $5 Million Yearly
WIMR certifies that its projected annual revenue from this transaction will not exceed $5,000,000 and that the transaction will not create a Class I or II rail carrier. The Board will treat this as a Class III (small) carrier action.
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