BNSF plans $90m capital expenditure programme in Minnesota

BNSF Railway Company is to remain focussed on maintenance projects in Minnesota with its 2018 capital expenditure programme totalling $90m. The projects will ensure the company continues to operate a safe and reliable rail network.

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.

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

Over the past five years, BNSF has invested approximately $810m to expand and maintain its network in Minnesota. This year, the maintenance program in Minnesota includes more than 750 miles of track surfacing and/or undercutting work as well as the replacement of nearly 20 miles of rail and close to 170,000 ties.

“As a part of the Great Northern Corridor, Minnesota serves as a crucial link between the Pacific Northwest and Chicago, ensuring that every year BNSF moves more than 140,000 carloads of Minnesota corn, wheat, soybeans and other agricultural products, as well as large quantities of timber and paper products to both global and domestic markets,” said Chad Sundem, General Manager of Operations, Twin Cities Division.

“By performing regular maintenance, we continue to ensure the safety and reliability of our network in Minnesota.”

For more information, visit: www.bnsf.com

22nd Mar 2018