BNSF plans $150 million capital program in Illinois for 2018

Date
Feb 21, 2018

CHICAGO, February 21, 2018 – BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) today announced that its 2018 capital expenditure program in Illinois will be approximately $150 million. To ensure BNSF continues to operate a safe and reliable rail network, this year’s plan in Illinois remains focused on maintenance projects. The largest component of this year’s capital plan in the state will be for replacing and upgrading rail, rail ties and ballast, which are the main components for the tracks on which BNSF trains operate.

Over the past five years, BNSF has invested nearly $1.2 billion to expand and maintain its network in Illinois. This year, the maintenance program in Illinois includes more than 650 miles of track surfacing and/or undercutting work as well as the replacement of nearly 30 miles of rail and about 250,000 ties.

“Illinois is a vital link in BNSF’s 32,500 route-mile network and a key interchange point with other railroads enabling us to serve customers in Canadian and eastern U.S. markets. In total, nearly 2.9 million carloads and intermodal units are shipped to or from Illinois every year, making operating a safe and efficient rail network a priority in the state,” said Jason Jenkins, general manager of operations, Chicago Division.

The 2018 planned capital investments in the state are part of BNSF’s $3.3 billion network-wide capital expenditure program announced last month. These investments include $2.4 billion to replace and maintain core network and related assets, approximately $500 million for expansion and efficiency projects and $100 million for continued implementation of Positive Train Control (PTC). Another element of its capital plan will be $300 million for freight cars and other equipment acquisitions.

About BNSF

BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies. BNSF operates approximately 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states and also operates 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. BNSF’s shipments 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.