BNSF Plans Nearly $145 Million Capital Program in Illinois to Improve and Expand Rail Capacity

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) plans to invest an estimated $145 million on maintenance and rail capacity expansion projects in Illinois this year.

BNSF will replace two bridges in Princeton and Wyanet, and construct a new siding 7,600 feet long between Barstow and Hillsdale. Three departure tracks at the Galesburg Yard will be extended to a length of 10,000 feet each, and track and parking will be added to BNSFs Logistics Park Chicago and Corwith Intermodal facilities in the Chicago area.

BNSF will also continue its robust maintenance program in Illinois, which will include about 2,700 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, and the replacement of 90 miles of rail and more than 150,000 railroad ties, as well as signal upgrades for federally mandated positive train control (PTC).

BNSFs capital investments in Illinois will help ensure our network is prepared for growing demand for freight rail, said Matthew K. Rose, chairman and chief executive officer. We are focused on investing to meet our customers expectations and on expanding capacity where growth is occurring. Given the importance of a low cost supply chain to the U.S. economy, our privately funded rail infrastructure is well positioned to help Illinois compete in global markets.

The planned capital investments in Illinois are part of BNSFs record 2013 capital commitment of $4.3 billion. The largest component of the capital plan is spending $2.3 billion on BNSF's core network and related assets. BNSF also plans to spend approximately $1 billion on locomotive, freight car and other equipment acquisitions, many of which will serve Illinois. The program also includes about $200 million for positive train control and $800 million for terminal, line and intermodal expansion and efficiency projects.

Unlike other modes of transportation, U.S. freight railroads use their own private dollars, not tax dollars, to build and maintain their freight rail networks. Since the year 2000, BNSF has invested more than $42 billion to improve and expand its freight rail network.

About BNSF

BNSF Railway is one of North Americas leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states and two 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. BNSFs 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. You can learn more about BNSF at http://www.BNSF.com.

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BNSF Plans Nearly $145 Million Capital Program in Illinois to Improve and Expand Rail Capacity