OSKALOOSA — Oskaloosa residents are invited to a community meeting on August 28 at 8:30 a.m. at the Environmental Learning Center to discuss a transportation development that could enhance the local economy and improve transportation infrastructure. The meeting will present the findings of the Oskaloosa Transload Facility Feasibility Study, conducted by the Mahaska Chamber and Development Group in partnership with Mahaska County and the City of Oskaloosa.
The proposed transload facility would allow goods to be transferred efficiently between trucks and trains. This facility, planned for a 27-acre site adjacent to Innovation Park, is strategically located near major highways, including Iowa Highway 23, US Highway 63, and Interstate 80. The site’s location is ideal for boosting regional freight movement, offering businesses a more economical way to transport goods.
“The fact that we have rail that is well maintained next to our certified site puts us at a huge advantage,” says Deann DeGroot, Director of the Mahaska Chamber & Development Group. “Less than half of the certified sites in the state have rail access.”
The transload facility is part of a broader transportation infrastructure upgrade, including a US Highway 63 bypass around northwest Oskaloosa, and a US 63/IA 23 local connector south of Oskaloosa creating direct, safer, and more efficient route for trucks traveling to and from the Innovation Park. The connector was funded in part by the largest RISE grant award in Iowa’s history. “When you take a look at what we have with road improvements, we are a very strong community for logistics,” comments DeGroot. “We have the opportunity to add jobs and grow our community by having this transload facility.”
The study highlighted several key benefits:
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Economic Growth: The facility is expected to attract new businesses to Oskaloosa, create jobs, and support the expansion of existing companies. With the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) already expressing interest in the project, Oskaloosa is poised to become a regional hub for freight.
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Improved Efficiency: Transloading allows for quicker transfer of goods between rail and truck, reducing costs and time for businesses. The facility will also support cross-docking operations, transferring goods directly from inbound to outbound transportation, further streamlining the process.
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Reduced Traffic and Environmental Impact: By moving freight from trucks to trains, the facility can help reduce road congestion and lower emissions, aligning with statewide efforts to improve transportation efficiency.
The facility is projected to significantly reduce transportation costs for local businesses. “If we invested the initial capital of $3.6 million, it would have a benefit of $31.8 million to our economy,” DeGroot states.
The study is the result of extensive collaboration between the Mahaska Chamber, local businesses, and key partners like the Iowa DOT and UPRR. The project is also part of the broader Mahaska/Oskaloosa Driving Economic Success (MODES) initiative, exploring new roadway corridors around the east side of Oskaloosa to support local industry.
Several potential funding sources have been identified, including state and federal grants, loans, and private partnerships. The project is designed to be scalable, allowing for expansion as demand increases.
At the community meeting, representatives will present the study’s findings, share details about the potential economic impact, and discuss the next steps. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and learn how they can be involved in this transformative project.
“This is a pivotal moment for Oskaloosa,” said DeGroot. “The transload facility could not only improve our transportation infrastructure but also drive economic growth for years to come. We encourage everyone in the community to attend and learn more about what this project means for our future.”
The community meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 28, at the Environmental Learning Center, 2342 IA-92, Oskaloosa, beginning at 8:30 a.m. All residents are welcome to attend and participate.
