JOPLIN, Mo., Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Jaguar Transport Holdings, LLC (“Jaguar”) announced today that it will begin operating the Columbia Basin Railroad (CBRW) and the Central Washington Railroad (CWA) on August 27, 2025, following the completion of its acquisition of the two rail lines.
The transaction previously received formal approval from the Surface Transportation Board (STB).
“We are excited to welcome the Columbia Basin Railroad and Central Washington Railroad into Jaguar,” said Stu Towner, CEO of Jaguar Transport Holdings. “The Temple family and their team have transformed good railroads into great businesses by prioritizing safe, reliable service for their employees and customers, which in turn has allowed them to invest in and support the communities they serve.
“Washington’s long history in transportation and trade lives on through these railroads, which remain vital lifelines for farmers, manufacturers, and businesses across the state. As this growth continues, safe and efficient rail service will be essential to sustaining the region’s expanding economy.”
“We take a disciplined approach to acquisitions, and this opportunity—backed by proven success, strong infrastructure, a dedicated team, and a growing customer base—truly excites us. We are ready to dig in and earn the right to grow with our new team members, customers, communities, and Class I partners.”
The Columbia Basin Railroad and Central Washington Railroad operate a combined 177-mile network that provides vital transportation links for central Washington. Together, the lines connect agricultural producers, industrial shippers, and local businesses to the national rail system, ensuring efficient access to both domestic markets and through Pacific Northwest ports. The Columbia Basin Railroad interchanges with BNSF at Connell, WA, while the Central Washington Railroad connects with BNSF in Yakima and Gibbon.
Brig Temple, outgoing owner and President of the CBRW and CWA said, “Over the years, these railroads have played an important role in supporting the local customers across central Washington. We couldn’t be more confident in Jaguar’s ability to carry that legacy forward and take these railroads to the next level. Their professionalism and care, combined with a commitment to safety, reliability, and relationship-driven investment in commercial growth, will not only serve our customers well but also strengthen the economy of the region we proudly call home.”
With this acquisition, Jaguar Transport Holdings now operates 13 short line railroads, 13 transload locations, and six industrial parks across 12 states, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner for freight customers and a dedicated employer in the communities it serves.
About Jaguar Transport Holdings
Jaguar is a transportation and logistics company headquartered in Joplin, MO. Since 2018, Jaguar is committed to safety, integrity, innovation, and fostering a strong team culture, with the goal of building long-term value for its customers, communities, and strategic partners. For more information, please visit www.jag-transport.com.
SOURCE Jaguar Transport Holdings
