Springfield‑based Stout Steel and Cedarwood have breathed new life into a long‑unused rail spur on the west side of Eugene, creating a direct rail link for Oregon‑made rebar. The businesses purchased an industrial lot at 110 N. Cleveland St. last year, renovated the on‑site warehouse and, together with a contractor, repaired the spur that had lain idle for nearly two decades.
Restoration details and costs
The spur, a short branch off the main BNSF line that is switched by Portland & Western Railroad, required the removal of asphalt that had covered deteriorating ties, replacement of damaged ties, and the addition of rock ballast to re‑grade the track. The work, which cost roughly $50,000, was described in a news release as a “most fun” project by Alan Stout, a Springfield city councilor and co‑owner of Stout Steel.
How the rail link works
Under an agreement with Portland & Western, the companies use a former logging railcar to move steel from Cascade Steel in McMinnville to the Eugene warehouse. Each railcar trip replaces about three truckloads, slashing freight costs and using roughly half the diesel fuel required for the same haul on Interstate 5.
Impact on local supply chains
“The supply chain changes for us,” Stout said. “Now we have a lot stronger supply here in Eugene, and we have the capacity to move a lot more than we did before.” The restored spur allows railcars to be unloaded directly inside the warehouse, after which the steel is transferred to trucks for final delivery to construction sites throughout the region.
Delivery schedule
According to the release, the facility expects about four rail deliveries each month during the summer and two to three per month in the winter. The first shipment was slated for November 11.
Benefits for the community
Beyond cost savings for the businesses, the rail link reduces heavy‑truck traffic on local roads and cuts emissions, aligning with broader goals of preserving air quality and easing congestion in the Eugene‑Springfield corridor. The project also showcases how private‑sector initiative can complement existing rail infrastructure to support regional construction needs.
Local government connection
Alan Stout’s dual role as a Springfield councilor underscores the close ties between local business leaders and municipal decision‑makers. While the project did not require a city vote, the councilor’s involvement highlights the importance of public‑private cooperation in advancing infrastructure that benefits both the economy and the community.
Looking ahead
Stout Steel and Cedarwood plan to continue leveraging the spur for additional freight opportunities, potentially expanding the range of materials moved by rail. Their success may encourage other regional firms to explore similar rail‑based solutions, further reducing reliance on long‑haul trucking and supporting Oregon’s manufacturing sector.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
