BNSF Railway Co. announced that its 2015 capital program for its operations in Wisconsin will include an estimated $120 million for rail maintenance and capacity improvement projects throughout the state.
Unlike other modes of freight transportation, U.S. railroads own and maintain their own networks. To ensure BNSF’s network operates at optimal efficiency, the company annually allocates capital for infrastructure and expansion projects that will enable it to serve the growing needs of customers from a broad cross section of the economy.
BNSF’s maintenance program in Wisconsin will include 220 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, the replacement of nearly 25 miles of rail and about 800 ties, as well as signal upgrades for federally-mandated positive train control.
“This year’s substantial investments in Wisconsin are a clear reflection of how important our operations in the state are to our overall network and our unwavering commitment to always operating safely – for our people and the communities in which we operate,” said Jason Jenkins, general manager of operations for BNSF’s Chicago Division. “We know our customers are competing in a fast-paced, global economy where a smooth, efficient supply chain can be the difference between winning and losing in the marketplace. This year’s planned expansion and maintenance projects will help give BNSF the capacity flexibility it needs to support our customers’ growing demands and connect Wisconsin products to key markets.”
The planned capital investments in Wisconsin are part of BNSF’s record 2015 capital commitment of $6 billion, which was announced last November and is the company’s largest planned capital expenditure in its history.
Fort Worth, Texas-based BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies, operating on 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states, and also in three Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain and agricultural products, low-sulfur coal, and industrial goods such as petroleum, chemicals, housing materials, food and beverages.
