STB final environmental analysis has brought a proposed Texas short line one step closer to a regulatory decision. The 2.6-mile rail line in Webb County, Texas, would link with a Union Pacific Railroad mainline and support a new industrial park near Laredo.

STB final environmental analysis moves LGIR forward
STB final environmental analysis moves LGIR forward

STB final environmental analysis sets the next step

The project is connected with Laredo Gateway Industrial Railway LLC, or LGIR. Kraus Development established the company to serve Gateway Industrial Park, a 3,300-acre site now being developed near the U.S.-Mexico border.

The park is planned with warehousing and transloading services for commodities moved by truck. If the proposed rail line receives approval, the same industrial site would also be able to handle freight moving by rail.

LGIR project now awaits board decision

In the Final Environmental Assessment, the STB’s Office of Environmental Analysis addressed three comments submitted on the draft version and presented its recommendations. The comments did not result in changes to the analysis.

The Surface Transportation Board will now consider the transportation merits of the proposal, together with LGIR’s environmental and historic record. On that basis, the board will decide whether to authorize construction and operation of the proposed Texas short line.