(Source: BNSF Railway press release, May 1, 2012)
FORT WORTH, Texas — BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) plans to invest an estimated $202 million on maintenance and rail capacity improvement and expansion projects in Nebraska this year.
BNSF’s 2012 capacity enhancement projects in Nebraska include adding a second main line track in the Grand Island area, beginning work to replace BNSF’s bridge over the Missouri River between Plattsmouth, Neb., and Pacific Jct., Iowa, expansion of BNSF’s Lincoln locomotive shop, improvements to BNSF’s Havelock car shop, and significant signal upgrades for federally mandated positive train control (PTC).
BNSF will also continue its robust track maintenance program in Nebraska, which will include 1,405 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, and the replacement of 100 miles of rail and about 140,000 ties.
“BNSF’s investments will improve our ability to provide rail freight services to Nebraska businesses and communities, and will expand opportunities to create more jobs and growth for the Nebraska economy,” said Matthew K. Rose, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
The planned capital investments in Nebraska are part of BNSF’s total 2012 capital commitment of $3.9 billion. The largest component of the capital plan is spending $2.1 billion on BNSF’s core network and related assets. BNSF also plans to spend approximately $1.1 billion on locomotive, freight car and other equipment acquisitions, many of which will serve Nebraska. The program also includes about $300 million for federally mandated positive train control and $400 million for terminal, line and intermodal expansion and efficiency projects.
U.S. Department of Commerce economic data indicates that every dollar invested in freight railroads yields $3 in economic output and according to a Department of Commerce economic model, every freight rail job supports another 4.5 jobs somewhere else in our economy.
About BNSF
BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,000 route miles of track in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain, industrial goods and low-sulfur coal that help feed, clothe, supply, and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced, and efficient railroads in the industry. We work continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve. You can learn more about BNSF at www.BNSF.com.