This project involved the design of a new DTL fueling facility for Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway Company (BNSF) locomotives, along with a variety of rail yard improvements; specifically, design of the DTL fueling facility included installation of Lube Oil, Journal Oil, Sodium Borate (Engine Radiator Water), and potable water systems. With each system, special design consideration was given to the fact that the systems would operate in cold weather and electrically heated boom cabinets were provided to maintain the temperature of each system during periods of non-use. In addition to the locomotive fueling and lubrication systems, a new sanding tower was designed and installed. This sanding tower has the capability of sanding two tracks simultaneously.

The unique aspect of the tower is the fact that the track centers are wider than typically used in the standard facilities; therefore, the tower height and dispensing arms had to be adapted to the project requirements. The sanding tower footings were designed for Seismic Zone 3. A 40 horsepower air compressor was relocated from the Portland, Oregon, yard for the sand conveying system. New site lighting was provided at the DTL platform to ensure a 24-hour operation. A new storm water lift station was provided at the existing turntable, and two new sanitary sewer lift stations were provided to replace older units that were nearing the end of their useful lives.

A new grit chamber was provided to accommodate all of the rail yard wastewater.

The existing waste oil system was renovated. A new 25,000-gallon, double-wall storage tank, along with a new 150 gpm positive placement pump was provided to transfer waste oil, in double-contained piping, from the existing oil/water separator to tanker cars.

Concerned with the safety of the BNSF personnel, a new fall protection platform was provided at the waste oil loading station.

The new DTL platform required a great deal of rail yard track realignment for which Hanson-Wilson Inc., provided all of the civil and site design. Design was also provided for a variety of utility realignments including a new 6" potable water line and relocation of 1500 feet of wastewater piping.

A new maintenance support office building was provided. This office building houses the fueling depot offices and locker/toilet rooms for the BNSF personnel.

During the pre-design, our engineers worked closely with the City of Vancouver in obtaining all of the required SEPA, erosion control, and building permits. Following design, site observation trips were completed to track the project progress and answer contractor questions.