BNSF’s $3.2 B Phoenix rail hub faces county rejection

The Phoenix rail hub project proposed by BNSF Railway faces new challenges after Maricopa County rejected a key land-use change, putting the $3.2 billion investment temporarily on hold.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Economic potential of the Phoenix rail hub

The Phoenix train hub project proposed by BNSF Railway will overhaul 4,000 acres in Wittmann to create a massive logistical center named Logistics Park Phoenix (LPP). The project has the potential to provide more than 76,000 jobs and $4 billion in labor income.

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“Intermodal Comprehensive Plan Amendment” was vetoed by the Board of Supervisors in Maricopa County. The measure planned to re-zone land between 211th St. to 235th St. north of U.S. 60. The land was previously mapped incorrectly in county maps by “Intermodal,” who intended to correct the issue to provide Arizona with its vital transportation needs.

BNSF representatives criticized the action because the decision favored politics over growth. They observed that the project was expected to create $258 million in annual tax benefits. Due to its prime site, LPP would improve trade flows between ports in Southern California and the entire country.

Community impact and next steps for the Phoenix rail hub

Although there’s a slight hitch in its plans, BNSF asserted its continued desire to engage in dialogue with local community members. They pointed out that its Phoenix rail intermodal facility project was in line with Arizona’s vision for its freight transportation needs in the long term. As a result, BNSF intends to rework its proposal.

Although, there was concern expressed by people living around Wittmann regarding possible noise pollution, traffic congestion, as well as environmental impacts. County Supervisor Debbie Lesko opposed the move due to a lack of infrastructure to accommodate such fast growth.

Rejection does not mean the end to the project but instead forces BNSF to realign its vision to conform to the comprehensive plan set by the county. The proposal remains well-supported in Arizona’s chambers of commerce since there are eighteen who continue to show backing.

With increasing population and volumes in Arizona, infrastructure capacity continues to be a concern. Analysts point to investing in intermodal facilities to improve congestion in Arizona’s highways, reduce emissions, and spur investments in manufacturing.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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