Port of Nevada Unveils New Intermodal Route between Fernley and Oakland

Written By: Chetan

Chetan

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June 12, 2024 8:30 PM

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The Port of Nevada™, spanning 224 acres in Northern Nevada, is an inland port operation and intermodal ramp. Owned and developed by Industrial Realty Group, LLC (IRG), the Port of Nevada™ is now launching intermodal services facilitating imports and exports between Fernley and the Port of Oakland.

This expansion is made possible through collaboration with Union Pacific Railroad, the CMA CGM Group, and the Port of Oakland.

“Direct rail access between Reno and the West Coast significantly increases the amount of cargo freight that can be shipped,” said Stuart Lichter, President of the Port of Nevada and IRG. “This collaborative venture will provide our clients with a more efficient, reliable, and environmentally sensitive way to transport goods.”

The Port of Nevada™ boasts a comprehensive rail facility seamlessly linked to Union Pacific’s robust network. Its rail operations encompass bulk commodity and intermodal transloading, along with versatile storage solutions for various commodities. Moreover, the site offers ample opportunities for tailored construction projects and on-site storage solutions.

Direct rail access to the port promises substantial benefits in terms of cost savings, operational efficiencies, expanded supply chain alternatives, and enhanced sustainability for customers of the Port of Nevada. Partnering exclusively with the CMA CGM Group, a global leader in sea, land, air, and logistics solutions until 2024, ensures unparalleled connectivity to Asia and Europe.

Given the prevalent challenges in supply chains and the often unpredictable conditions along Interstate 80, businesses are increasingly drawn to rail transport. Opting for rail enables clients to reduce their environmental footprint and mitigate the impact of road conditions, regulatory constraints in trucking, and carbon emissions. Union Pacific highlights the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of rail transport, with one gallon of diesel fuel capable of transporting approximately one ton of cargo nearly 400 miles. Moreover, rail transport contributes only 2% of transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions, significantly lower than the nearly 25% attributed to medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

Further bolstering this endeavor are the local economic development authorities in Reno, namely the Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA) and the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN), which provide invaluable support to companies seeking to thrive in the region.

“This project is a very unique opportunity for those looking to expand in the Reno market,” said Taylor Adams, EDAWN CEO. “The coastal connectivity IRG is providing is something companies need in Western Nevada, and we will do all we can to support the project’s continued growth throughout the region.” 

“We are very excited to support the IRG inland port project,” said Jeff Sutich, Executive Director of the NNDA. “As a federally designated Tech Hub, focused on onshoring businesses to Nevada, this site is in a prime position to support advanced manufacturing companies that will be expanding to the State.”