Resolution 21-318, endorsing an application to the Iowa Department of Transportation by the City of Council Bluffs and TSL Company Holdings, Ltd. for grant funding under the Linking Iowa’s Freight Transportation Systems (LIFTS) Program.

Resolution 21-319, authorizing the Mayor to execute the Development Agreement with TSL Company Holdings, Ltd. for the Construction of an Intermodal Container Freight Station in Council Bluffs.   

TSL Company Holdings Ltd. has purchased 54-acres at 116 N. 29th Street and an existing building at 2427 South Avenue and plans to relocate 38 new full-time positions to Council Bluffs from their Omaha facility.

TSL plans to build an intermodal container freight station that will enhance the Iowa Interstate Railroad intermodal ramp by centralizing intermodal support operations.

TSL has secured $1,536,000 in funding through the Linking Iowa’s Freight Transportation Systems Program.  LIFTS requires administration of the project by a local municipality and IDOT and TSL have requested that the City fill that role.

The City and TSL are also pursuing funding through the Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy (RISE) Program and through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant.  The total project cost is estimated to be $35,814,000.

When fully operational, the economic activity generated by this project is expected to add approximately $9.7 million to the local economy each year.

A development agreement between the City of Council Bluffs and TSL will establish the terms of funding and compliance with all program requirements.  It is recommended that this agreement be approved with the application endorsement.

Approval of the resolution to support the LIFTS application and for the City to administer the grant project.

Approval of the resolution to authorize the Mayor to execute the development agreement with TSL Company Holdings, Ltd. to establish the terms of funding and compliance with program requirements.