The Clark County Railroad Advisory Board is aiming to increase public engagement around the county’s freight rail system in 2026. Board members say the effort is designed to better inform residents about how the short line operates, its role in local commerce, and the policies that shape its use.

The railroad, owned by Clark County and operated by Patriot Rail, serves industrial customers along a 33-mile corridor stretching from Vancouver toward Battle Ground. The board—which advises the Clark County Council on matters affecting rail use—reported that public understanding of the line’s significance to regional freight movement remains limited, especially among newer residents unfamiliar with its history and governance.

Plans for community outreach include informational events, online educational materials, and coordination with local economic development agencies. Board members have discussed developing visual guides and possibly offering tours or open houses at select facilities, though final details have not been announced.

In recent years, the county-owned rail line has been a recurring topic in regional infrastructure planning. It provides industrial access for several manufacturers but operates within a complex web of public ownership and private management. Increased engagement may help clarify how decisions about maintenance, lease agreements, and environmental factors are made.

According to the board, the goal is twofold: to demystify the workings of the publicly owned rail system and to build community support for its continued safe and efficient operation. Any new outreach programs will require coordination with the Clark County Council, which must approve funding and formal proposals before implementation.

Further information about the board’s activities can be found through Clark County’s official website or at upcoming council sessions where updates on the outreach plan are expected to be presented.

Original coverage: The Columbian — Board wants to educate residents about Clark County’s railroad.