09/20/2025
Another great partnership project with the Port of Pend Oreille! We can't wait to see how this project progresses.
Press Release in conjunction with Kalispel Tribe of Indians and CERB - Community Economic Revitalization Board
WA State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) Grant Awarded to Study Reopening Usk to Metaline Falls Rail Line for Passenger and Freight Service
Pend Oreille County, WA – The Port of Pend Oreille is pleased to announce it has received a CERB (Community Economic Revitalization Board) grant from the state of Washington to conduct a feasibility study on reopening the rail line between Usk and Metaline Falls. CERB funding helps communities like ours build what’s next, focusing on high-impact projects like reopening the rail line. This exciting development follows ongoing discussions between the Port and the Kalispel Tribe of Indians regarding the significant economic development potential this project could bring to Pend Oreille County and future partnership opportunities.
The grant will fund professional assessments and technical evaluations to determine the true cost and requirements for restoring both passenger and freight rail service along this historic corridor. Engineering and rail industry experts will provide crucial insights into the physical improvements needed to make the line operational again. The rail line north of Usk has been out of service for years, but renewed interest in rail transportation and its economic benefits has sparked this important initiative. Results from the study will help determine whether moving forward with rail restoration makes financial and practical sense for the region and potential partners. The Port has been expanding it’s involvement in economic development with the designation as the counties Associate Development Organization.
"We are excited to move forward with the CERB feasibility study and explore the tremendous economic opportunities that renewed rail service could bring to our region, " said Jessica Garza, Economic Development Director for the Port of Pend Oreille. "Both passenger and freight rail service could transform what businesses can operate here and attract new investment to Pend Oreille County." While the Port will lead the feasibility study, both the Port and the Tribe share a vision for how restored rail service could benefit the entire county. Partnering with CERB means a jump start on this significant economic opportunity, as CERB works alongside the community to help plan, strategize, and strengthen the local economy.
The potential economic impacts may include enhanced tourism opportunities with scenic rail excursions through the beautiful Pend Oreille Valley, recreational rail activities that could attract visitors from across the region, improved transportation options for residents, reduced shipping costs for businesses, and the attraction of new industries that rely on rail access. The picturesque route between Usk and Metaline Falls offers tremendous potential for heritage tourism and outdoor recreation connections.
“The Kalispel Tribe is thrilled to work alongside the Port to explore opportunities that will highlight the beauty of the Pend Oreille River Valley and enhance tourism and promotion of this region,” says Kalispel Tribal Council Vice Chair Curt Holmes. “The Tribe has always been committed to supporting economic development and growth in the area. This unique opportunity could bring a wide range of benefits to the community, while also allowing us to share our Tribe’s history and highlight the beautiful natural resources that surround us and our efforts to preserve them.”
The Kalispel Tribe has called the region home since time immemorial and has always been committed to improving the economy and vibrancy of Pend Oreille County. The Tribe has become one of the largest county employers, operating Kalispel Casino, the Camas Center for Community Wellness, and the Camas Medical Clinic. Tribal businesses are designed to serve not only Tribal Members, but residents of the entire community. The Tribe looks forward to partnering with the Port in efforts to revitalize the history of rail services in Pend Oreille County and create an exciting future full of possibilities.
"This CERB funded study represents the significant first step in what could be a transformative project for Pend Oreille County," added Jessica Garza "We're committed to conducting thorough research to ensure any future decisions are based on solid data and realistic projections."
Both the Port and the Kalispel Tribe are committed to keeping the community informed throughout the study process. Public input and community feedback will be important components if the project moves forward after the study results are received. The study is expected to begin in the coming months, with results anticipated within a year. More details about project updates will be shared as they become available.
About the Port of Pend Oreille - The Port of Pend Oreille, a non-taxing governmental entity, has successfully operated the Pend Oreille Valley Railroad for over 40 years. The rail infrastructure was built in 1909 by Frederick Blackwell stretching from Newport to Metaline Falls. In 1979 the Port district was formed and the rail was purchased by the Port. The Port has since expanded railroad operations by extending rail service into the State of Idaho in 1998, increased the size of the mechanical facilities to bring in outside locomotive rebuild and painting operations, as well as established a nationwide reputation for clean energy conversions on locomotives.
Since 2024, the Port of Pend Oreille has increased its dedication to fostering economic development and creating opportunities that benefit businesses and residents throughout Pend Oreille County as the designated Associate Development Organization. The Port works to attract investment, support existing businesses, and develop infrastructure that strengthens the regional economy.
About the Kalispel Tribe of Indians – The Kalispel (Qlispé) people, pronounced (kuh-lee-SPEH) and meaning “Camas People,” are named for the purple flowers that grow in meadows throughout the Pend Oreille Valley. Since time immemorial, the Kalispel Tribe’s aboriginal lands stretched across millions of acres, including lands across what are now Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Canada.
Today, the Tribe’s reservation is located near Cusick, Washington, along the Pend Oreille River and the foothills of the Selkirk Mountains. The Tribe operates businesses across Spokane and Pend Oreille Counties, most notably Northern Quest Resort & Casino, Kalispel Golf & Country Club, and Kalispel Casino & RV Resort. Together, these enterprises provide nearly 2,300 jobs in the region. The Tribe prioritizes the well-being of its members and community through healthcare, education, environmental stewardship, and sustainable enterprises. Since 2000, the Kalispel Tribe has donated more than $25 million to strengthen local communities. Visit kalispeltribe.com to learn more.
About the Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) – The Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) is a trusted state partner in local, inclusive economic development. For more than 40 years, CERB has worked alongside rural, tribal, and historically underserved communities across Washington to turn local priorities into lasting opportunities.
Founded on the belief that place should never limit potential, CERB provides flexible funding and high-touch support for essential infrastructure projects– such as broadband, water systems, and job-ready facilities– that unlock private investment, create jobs, and build long-term resilience.
Established by the Washington State Legislature in 1982, CERB fills a critical need: helping communities access the tools, capital, and coaching needed to create the conditions where businesses can grow and thrive. CERB is more than a funder. With a model grounded in trust, partnership, and adaptability, CERB supports communities from early vision to shovel-ready projects, ensuring investments reflect local leadership and deliver real, measurable results
