ARG Trans chosen to run Oregon short line

ARG Trans has been selected by the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay as the preferred operator for the 133-mile Coos Bay rail line, following interviews with five final candidates in January 2011, port officials have announced. ARG Trans also will maintain the right-of-way.

The former Central Oregon and Pacific track has been closed since 2007 and was purchased by the Port in 2009. The line, to operate as the Coos Bay Rail Link (CBRL), is undergoing nearly $24 million in repairs to upgrade the line from 10 mph to between 25 and 40 mph. Partial service is expected to resume this summer with full operation this fall.

“ARG Trans is excited to work with the port to bring rail service back to the region,” said ARG Trans President Scott Parkinson. “Restoring rail access to businesses in Lane, Douglas and Coos counties will provide business development opportunities that will result in local jobs and economic improvement. We will work with all stakeholders to ensure that the Coos Bay Rail Link is a positive addition to the community.”

ARG Trans, founded in 2003, runs the San Pedro & Southwestern Railroad (SPSR); the company and SPSR both are headquartered in Benson, Ariz.