City of Washougal is delighted to announce that it has been awarded a substantial $40 million grant from the new Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program (RCE) to fund development, final design, right-of-way acquisition, and construction for the highly anticipated 32nd Street Underpass Project. This underpass will eliminate the existing at-grade crossing to alleviate congestion, enhance accessibility, and improve the overall quality of life for our residents and businesses. The amount is the second highest RCE award in the country.
“This project is a great example of how partnership between the local, state and federal government is critical to assisting communities like Washougal successfully address significant challenges,” commented City Manager David Scott. “We are very appreciative of the support and leadership of our federal delegation on the issue of rail safety and on our project.”
The City of Washougal extends its deepest gratitude to Senator Cantwell, Senator Murray, and Representative Gluesenkamp Perez for their support. The $40 million grant serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of our legislators in pursuing this significant infrastructure improvement. This grant represents a pivotal milestone in bringing the 32nd Street Underpass Project to fruition and realizing the vision of a safer and more connected Washougal.
Senator Cantwell is a leader in enhancing rail safety within our communities. She authored the new RCE Program and guided it through the legislative process, resulting in its inclusion in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Meanwhile, Senator Murray demonstrated leadership in the Senate Appropriations process, helping to secure substantial funding for this program. Representative Gluesenkamp Perez, along with both senators, actively championed our specific grant application, showcasing their unwavering support and comprehension of the importance of addressing the at-grade crossing at 32nd St. We deeply appreciate their commitment to our community and their recognition of the significance of mitigating this issue.
“We are immensely grateful to our federal delegation and all of the partners who have extended their support and played a crucial role in securing this remarkable $40 million grant for the 32nd Street Underpass Project,” said Washougal Mayor David Stuebe. “Their unwavering commitment to our community's safety and prosperity is truly commendable. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our residents and businesses, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their invaluable support."
Other funding sources for this project include a $5 million grant from the State of Washington’s Rail Crossing Grant Program, which was contingent upon receiving the federal RCE Program award. The state’s leadership in this regard is greatly appreciated. Additionally, Senator Wilson and Representatives Harris and Waters recently secured $1.9 million in the 2023-2025 WA State Transportation budget toward design for the project.
Project partners who graciously provided letters in support of this project are Senator Wilson and Representatives Harris and Waters from our current 17th District; Senator Rivers and former Representatives Vick and Hoff from the 18th District (our former district); Roger Millar, Secretary of the WA Department of Transportation; the WA Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board; and locally the Regional Transportation Council, Port of Camas Washougal, Washougal School District and Chamber of Commerce.
The City of Washougal looks forward to collaborating with key stakeholders, residents, and businesses throughout the project's implementation to ensure minimal disruption and maximum benefit. By working together, the City will successfully realize this transformational infrastructure project, shaping the future of Washougal for generations to come.
The project is expected to be completed within 3 – 4.5 years.
To learn about the RCE program, visit https://railroads.dot.gov/grants-loans/competitive-discretionary-grant-programs/railroad-crossing-elimination-grant-program
To read the US Department of Transportation Press Release:
To read the press releases from our federal delegation:
