SHELBY — The rail yard in Shelby, also known as the Port of Northern Montana, is undergoing its second major expansion project since its establishment 40 years ago in 1984.
The $3.6 million expansion project will extend the rail yard to the Ardent Mills grain elevator, allowing Ardent Mills to increase wheat exports from the ‘Golden Triangle’ in Central Montana.
“This ongoing project will enable us to bring in more wheat for distribution to our mills across North America,” stated Kyle Robson, a representative from Ardent Mills.
Ardent Mills is the largest flour miller of American-grown wheat, producing 1,000 truckloads daily around the country and operating over 40 locations.
Governor Greg Gianforte, accompanied by MT Director of Agriculture Christy Clark, Shelby Mayor Gary McDermott, President of the Port of Northern Montana Byron Kluth, and others, visited the mill on Wednesday afternoon to participate in the groundbreaking ceremony for the project.
During the event, there was a focus on the significance of inland ports like Shelby’s for international trade.
“Expanding international trade is crucial, as Montana plays a significant role in feeding the world. Inland ports like these are extremely important,” Gianforte emphasized.
The project received support from the ‘Transportation Enhancement Bill’ authored by Montana House Representative Josh Kassmier from Fort Benton. Despite having broad support, the bill lacked sufficient funding, which the Governor’s office addressed by allocating federal ARPA funding for the expansion project.
