Port of LA Completes Massive Rail Expansion Project

An aerial view of the Port of Los Angeles’ Pier 400. Photo: POLA.

The Port of Los Angeles has finished a massive project to expand rail capacity at Pier 400, a move that’s expected to enhance cargo movement, road safety and air emission reduction efforts, the POLA said July 10.

The project expands rail capacity for terminal operators across the port while curbs an estimated 1,200 truck trips daily by 2040, according to the port.

“This $73 million rail project will increase cargo efficiency while reducing emissions, a cornerstone of the port’s blueprint for sustainable growth,” POLA Executive Director Gene Seroka said. “Advancing capital improvement initiatives like this are key to ensuring the port remains competitive.”

Work to enhance the intermodal rail storage yard near the APM Terminals-operated container terminal began by contractors Herzog/Stacy and Witbeck Joint Venture in 2021. The project added 31,000 linear feet of track along with five railroad storage tracks, a concrete rail span with lighting and other work, according to the port.

It also involved relocating part of the lead track onto port property, as well as realigning the track link to the rail storage yard and moving the at-grade crossing from Nimitz Avenue to Reeves Avenue.

Jon Poelma, managing director of APM Terminals Los Angeles Pier 400, lauded the project.

“Thanks to the port’s significant investment in rail infrastructure, APM Terminals will be able to handle increased volumes of intermodal cargo with greater efficiency across a wider variety of inland locations,” he said.

“This strategic upgrade enhances the Port of L.A.’s attractiveness as a gateway for cargo owners who rely on fast, efficient, and well-connected supply chains to serve their customers,” he added.

The project was funded in part with $21.6 million from the California Trade Corridor Enhancement Program.

By Karen Robes Meeks