Project News

On March 30, 2026, the Washington State Legislature passed SB 5820, which allows certain Washington counties and cities to plan for and permit freight rail dependent uses in rural areas adjacent to short line railroads without requiring urban-level services. This bill amends the GMA (RCW 70A.060 and 108) to clarify that qualifying jurisdictions can include freight rail dependent uses in the transportation element of their comprehensive plans. Clark County no longer qualifies.

On Tuesday, Oct. 13, the council adopted Ordinance 2026-10-01, removing the Freight Rail Dependent Use Overlay and related goals and policies from the Comprehensive Plan.  View the updated plan and appendices on this page.