​City completeS a 2,000-foot extension of rail line, linking Matalco to railroad

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The City of Wisconsin Rapids completed a 2,000-foot extension of industrial rail line that ties the Matalco plant to Canadian National railroad’s main-line track, as well as creating further rail access opportunities east of Matalco to spur future development. The $793,000 project was supported by a $400,000 grant from the Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) program.

“The rail extension project has created opportunities to reassess the rail usage and needs of other businesses in the Rapids East Commerce Center. The existing rail usage within the business park has been strong and is further increased by this extension. Overall, the increased demand to use rail has validated the prior investments the City and State have made in providing this service and will increase car delivery opportunities to the Rapids East Commerce Center, thereby helping Matalco and other industries to grow,” said Joe Eichsteadt, City Engineer.

In a press release, Governor Tony Evers commented, “This project is a great example of how local communities and businesses can work with the state of Wisconsin to connect the dots to drive economic progress, strengthen our supply chain, and create more good jobs. I look forward to continuing to partner together to ensure Matalco and the entire Wisconsin Rapids community’s success for years to come.”

“This project sets up the Rapids East Commerce Center for future growth and gives us another tool when attracting new development," said Mayor Shane Blaser. "I want to thank our City staff and TEA program staff for making this project a reality.”

Matalco, located in the Rapids East Commerce Center, is an aluminum processing plant. Matalco began operations in Wisconsin Rapids in November 2020 and created 80 new manufacturing jobs in the city.

The TEA Program provides financial assistance to communities to support transportation infrastructure improvements that will help attract new employers or encourage existing employers to expand. A municipal or county unit of government must sponsor a TEA application, the project must have the local government's endorsement, and it must benefit the public.
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If you have questions about the project, please reach out to City Engineer, Joe Eichsteadt, at 715-421-8251 or jeichsteadt@wirapids.org.