BNSF’s statement is as follows:
“BNSF’s 2020 capital investment plan reflects our emphasis on keeping the network in the best condition it has ever been as well as expansion projects aimed at meeting customer demands. Every year, we work to ensure that our capital plan enables us to continue to operate a safe and reliable rail network as well as addresses the needs of our customers today and in the future.
“The largest component of this year’s $3.4 billion plan, approximately $2.55 billion, will primarily be for replacing and upgrading rail, rail ties and ballast (which are the main components for the tracks on which BNSF trains operate) and maintaining our rolling stock. This year’s maintenance program will include approximately 11,000 miles of track surfacing and/or undercutting work and the replacement of approximately 489 miles of rail and nearly 2.7 million rail ties.
“Track bed excavation – Siding extension project at Ash Fork, Arizona (January 22, 2020)
The siding is being extended to 16,000 feet, allowing for longer trains to operate to and from Phoenix.
“Approximately $581 million of this year’s capital plan has been allocated for expansion and efficiency projects. Most of these projects are focused on key growth areas along BNSF’s Southern and Northern Transcon routes, connecting Southern California with Chicago and the Pacific Northwest to the Upper Midwest, respectively.
“We will provide further details on many of the line capacity projects in subsequent updates throughout the year.”
