Commissioners authorize necessary track repairs for Port of the Plains; port board to select vendor

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners on June 16 authorized necessary repairs to rail track inside the Nebraska International Port of the Plains district and delegated vendor selection to the port authority’s board of directors, with the understanding funding will come from port grant money.

Jim Hawkes, chairman of the Nebraska International Port of the Plains board, said the port will need to sign contracts for repairs and leases as the facility prepares to become operational. Hawkes said the port board expects to use port funds—not county general funds—for track work and that timing could require signing agreements before a full county review if schedules are tight.

Commissioners said they wanted a courtesy notice and the ability to review permanent alterations but acknowledged the port board and its management agreement are intended to act as the county’s agent for operational work. The county forwarded a Union Pacific inspection report to local contacts; commissioners said the report contained recommendations and that early indications suggest repairs will be “minimal”.

A motion passed directing authorization of any necessary track repair within the Port of the Plains district, allowing the port board to determine vendors. The board recorded the vote in favor and noted that the work will be funded from existing port grant awards. Commissioners said they will continue to coordinate with port leadership to ensure timely contract signatures and compliance with railroad standards before reopening switches for service.

Commissioners also noted a short timeline as Project contacts and grant timelines advance; county and port officials said they will keep the board informed of specific contracts and costs as bids or quotes are received.