(The CBC British Columbia posted the following article to its website on July 14.)
PRINCE GEORGE, B.C. — The provincial Ministry of Transportation has shortlisted four railways interested in taking over B.C. Rail operations.
The four companies in the running are:
Canadian Pacific Railway;
Canadian National Railway;
Rail America;
And OmniTrax, in partnership with Burlington Northern Santa Fe.
Transportation Minister Judith Reid says the four companies on the government list have substantial railway operating experience and financial resources.
She refuses to say how many jobs may be lost when B.C. Rail is privatized – but says all four bidders have addressed concerns about employees “in a very positive way.”
The companies had been invited to submit proposals to take over the operation and management of B.C. Rail’s freight system.
An evaluation committee is expected to choose the top contender by September or October.
Reid says B.C. Rail’s tracks, railbed, and right-of-way will remain in public hands.