SHELBY — The rail yard in Shelby, known also as the Port of Northern Montana, is undergoing its second major expansion project since it was established 40 years ago in 1984.
The expansion project, with a price tag of $3.6 million, will extend the rail yard to the Ardent Mills grain elevator. This will enable Ardent Mills to enhance the export of wheat from the ‘Golden Triangle’ in Central Montana.
“This ongoing project will ultimately enable us to bring in more wheat for distribution to our mills across North America,” stated Kyle Robson, a representative of Ardent Mills.
Ardent Mills is the largest producer of American-grown wheat flour, with a daily output of 1,000 truckloads around the country and over 40 locations.
On June 5, 2024, Governor Greg Gianforte visited the mill along with Montana Director of Agriculture Christy Clark, Shelby Mayor Gary McDermott, Port of Northern Montana President Byron Kluth, and others.
They all participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the project, emphasizing the importance of inland ports like Shelby’s during their speeches.
“Expanding international trade is particularly crucial as Montana plays a significant role in feeding the world. Ports like these are exceptionally vital,” Gianforte remarked.
The project received assistance through the ‘Transportation Enhancement Bill’ drafted by Montana House Representative Josh Kassmier of Fort Benton. While the bill had overwhelming support, it lacked funding until the governor’s office allocated federal ARPA funding for the expansion project.
