We have the opportunity to increase safety and jobs in our community with the proposed Vancouver Energy oil terminal. This project has brought a new level of focus and investment to ensuring safe oil transfer by rail in Clark County. That is important to note, since we’ve had oil by rail traveling through our county for over 20 years. The proposed terminal will generate a projected $2 billion increase for our economy and 1,000 jobs.
After a tour of the proposed terminal, it’s clear that significant safety investments have already been made. Vancouver Energy proactively added 210 enhanced tank cars exceeding new U.S. Department of Transportation safe transport standards. Current Tesoro DOT 120 rail cars have a conditional probability release of approximately 3 percent at 50 mph and about 1 percent at 25 mph. That’s very close to 0 percent.
To further minimize the probability of a release, Tesoro’s transport policy is 5 mph or less in the Port of Vancouver and maximum 35 mph into or out of the port. They also inspect their tanks before and after they enter or exit the port.
Support enhanced safety and new jobs in Clark County at the public hearing on Jan. 12. Details at www.vancouverenergyusa.com and www.efsec.wa.gov.
