Rio Creek Feed Mill receives WisDOT funding

For the Star-News

LUXEMBURG — The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) recently announced nearly $5 million to improve freight rail at three facilities, including one in Luxemburg.

The three freight rail improvement projects, funded by the Freight Railroad Infrastructure Improvement Program (FRIIP), are receiving a combined total of $4.8 million to make upgrades to agricultural facility equipment, construct new storage at a transload terminal, and install a new industry track.

“Freight rail corridors play a critical role in our state’s economy and our transportation network, helping get product to market and move goods and services from point A to point B across Wisconsin,” said Gov. Tony Evers. “I’m proud of our continued work to build the infrastructure and workforce Wisconsin needs to meet the demands of the 21st Century, and these investments will help us build upon those efforts while supporting our local businesses, producers, and local community economies that all rely on these vital rail lines.”

FRIIP loans fund rail projects that connect an industry to the national railroad system, make improvements to enhance transportation efficiency, safety and intermodal freight movement, accomplish line rehabilitation and develop the economy.

“Wisconsin’s prosperity and competitiveness depend on a safe, efficient, and reliable transportation system,” said WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson. “When we support freight rail, we are directly supporting the people and businesses of our communities. This is our priority across all modes of transportation in Wisconsin.”

Rio Creek Feed Mill was awarded $1.5 million to help fund the construction of a 1.339-million-bushel grain bin, a support tower, loading equipment and unloading equipment at its facility in Luxemburg.

Construction of the bin will improve rail car loading and unloading efficiency, leading to annual transportation cost savings exceeding $600,000 per year after two years.

The facility receives inbound carloads of canola meal, soybean meal, corn gluten and distiller grains.

Rio Creek Feed Mill is served by the Fox Valley & Lake Superior Rail System.