In a recent Lakeville City Council work session, officials discussed the progress of the Great Rail Project, aimed at addressing freight rail car storage issues in the city. The meeting featured presentations from key stakeholders, including representatives from Progressive Rail and Compass Rail, who outlined the project's background, funding sources, and future steps.

The primary focus of the project is to alleviate public safety concerns and access limitations caused by the current storage of freight rail cars west of Dodd Boulevard. The existing tracks have led to driver delays and operational inefficiencies, prompting the need for a dedicated rail car storage facility. The proposed site, located just south of Progressive Rail's offices, spans approximately 22 acres and is expected to accommodate around 225 rail cars.

Compass Rail, a railcar services company, has partnered with Progressive Rail to develop this facility. Their representatives emphasized the potential for future expansion, including the establishment of a repair shop that could create up to 100 jobs in the area. Currently, the focus remains on the initial phase of storage, with plans to enhance services as the project progresses.

Funding for the project has been secured through various sources, including a $750,000 federal grant aimed at design work, alongside state funding for construction. The city is also working on acquiring necessary land and easements to facilitate the project. The next steps involve public hearings for annexation and land use applications, with the goal of starting design work by the end of the year.

City officials expressed optimism about the project's advancement, noting that it has been a long-term goal for the community. The collaborative efforts among stakeholders are seen as crucial to overcoming the challenges associated with freight rail operations in Lakeville. As the project moves forward, updates will be provided to keep the community informed of its progress and implications for local economic growth.