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WSDOT Studies Impact of Lower Snake River Dam Removal on Freight Transport by Mark Rattner NBC Right Now, February 8, 2026

OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is conducting a study to evaluate the transportation impacts if the Lower Snake River dams are removed.

The study examines how freight and goods, currently moved by barge, might transition to road and rail systems. It covers Whitman, Asotin, Garfield, Columbia, Walla Walla, Benton and Franklin counties.

WSDOT is exploring future scenarios where barge traffic shifts to road and rail, assessing necessary infrastructure changes. Three mitigation scenarios are underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026.

The public can share feedback on these scenarios through an online open house available until February 9, 2026.