ARG Trans Signs Coos Bay Rail Link Pact, Foster Named General Manager

COOS BAY, Ore., Aug. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- ARG Trans (www.argtrans.com) has signed an interim contract with the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay to operate the Coos Bay rail line, known as Coos Bay Rail Link (CBR). ARG Trans also announced the appointment of Tom Foster as CBR's general manager.

ARG Trans President Scott Parkinson said, "We are excited to partner with the Port to operate the Coos Bay Rail Link and develop business opportunities that will create jobs and enhance the local economy."

The rail line extends from a connection with Union Pacific at Eugene to Coquille, Ore. Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad closed the line in 2007 and the Port purchased it from RailAmerica in 2009.

CBR is undergoing nearly $24 million in repairs to upgrade the line from 10 mph to between 25 and 40 mph. Partial service is expected to resume in October. The interim agreement will cover operations while the rail line is being rehabilitated.

Parkinson added, "Tom Foster brings a wealth of experience in short-line railroad operations and marketing.  We are fortunate to have his expertise supporting the start up of the Coos Bay Rail Link."  Foster was formerly the general manager of the Puget Sound & Pacific Railroad (PSAP).

ARG Trans was founded in 2003 when it acquired its principal subsidiary, the San Pedro & Southwestern Railroad (SPSR), from RailAmerica. SPSR interchanges with the Union Pacific at Benson, Willcox and Casa Grande, Ariz. and provides transload facilities at all of its operating locations.

SOURCE ARG Trans