Jaguar completes acquisition of Columbia Basin, Central Washington railroads

Jaguar Transport Holdings LLC today will begin operating the Columbia Basin Railroad (CBRW) and the Central Washington Railroad (CWA) following the completion of its acquisition of the two rail lines.

The transaction previously received formal approval from the Surface Transportation Board, Jaguar officials said in a press release.

The CBRW and CWA operate a combined 177-mile network that provides transportation links for central Washington state. Together, the lines connect agricultural producers, industrial shippers and local businesses to the national rail system, ensuring access to domestic markets and through Pacific Northwest ports. The CBRW interchanges with BNSF Railway Co. at Connell, Washington, while the CWA connects with BNSF in Yakima and Gibbon, Washington.

"We take a disciplined approach to acquisitions, and this opportunity — backed by proven success, strong infrastructure, a dedicated team and a growing customer base — truly excites us. We are ready to dig in and earn the right to grow with our new team members, customers, communities and Class I partners," said Jaguar CEO Stu Towner.

Brig Temple, outgoing owner and president of the CBRW and CWA said, "Over the years, these railroads have played an important role in supporting the local customers across central Washington. We couldn't be more confident in Jaguar's ability to carry that legacy forward and take these railroads to the next level."

With this acquisition, Jaguar now operates 13 short lines, 13 transload locations and six industrial parks in 12 states.