Frequently Asked Questions

What are rail corridors?

Rail corridors are well-established rail lines that provide safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation through the country. BNSF’s expansive corridors reach two-thirds of North America. Highlighted are three BNSF key corridors – the TransCon, MidCon and Great Northern – BNSF’s Corridors of Commerce.

Why is BNSF investing in corridors?

Growth of the U.S. economy will require expansion of rail networks and services. A 2007 study concluded that the railroad industry will need $148 billion in new capacity to meet demand. Furthermore, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, every dollar spent to expand the nation’s railroad networks – investing in tracks, equipment, locomotives and bridges – returns $3 for the American economy. That’s a 200% return on investment. Today, rail freight network investment comes from private sector funding. A role for public private partnerships exists to improve community livability and to further stimulate economic development with freight rail.

What is TIGER?

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Department of Transportation (DOT) made available $1.5 billion in grant money for transportation projects that promote greater mobility, a cleaner environment, and more-livable communities. The program was named Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery, or “TIGER.”

What is TIGER II?

TIGER II is the second phase of the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery, or TIGER, grant program. The 2010 appropriations bill authorized $600 million for National Infrastructure Investments grant program (aka “TIGER II”) to be administered by USDOT. TIGER II grant awards will be announced by September 15, 2010.

What is Tower 55?

Tower 55 is a vital intersection for the national rail network located southeast of downtown Fort Worth, Texas. It is one of the busiest and most congested rail intersections in the United States. More than 100 trains move through the area during peak days. An additional 70 passenger trains pass by each weekday on the adjacent Trinity Railway Express. BNSF Railways, Union Pacific, and city and regional governments are working on plans to alleviate congestion and improve the flow of commerce through Tower 55.

What is an intermodal shipment?

An intermodal shipment refers to trailers or containers that move through multiple modes of transportation such as ship, truck and rail, without unloading or reloading the cargo.

What is an intermodal facility?

An intermodal facility is a site where shipments transfer between modes. BNSF maintains more than 30 intermodal hub facilities, strategically located along its 32,000 route mile network to serve most of North America’s largest markets.

What is the benefit of a grade crossing closure?

One of the best ways to address rail/highway grade crossing safety is to reduce the number of at-grade crossings. BNSF’s grade crossing safety program includes an aggressive initiative to close public and private at-grade crossings, working closely with communities and property owners. Good candidates for closure include those that are redundant (other crossings nearby allow access to the same roads or areas), are not designated emergency routes, have low traffic volumes, or are private crossings that are no longer needed or used. In addition to safety, closing a single grade crossing results in fewer traffic delays, idling cars, and greenhouse gas emissions. Not to mention, every time a train approaches an "at-grade," it is required by federal law to sound its horn. That’s one source of noise eliminated in our communities. To learn more about grade crossing safety, visit BNSF.com.

What is a siding extension?

Essentially a rail passing lane, a siding allows trains to meet and pass when operating on a single mainline track. As the name implies, a siding extension increases the length of the siding to allow for longer trains, hauling more goods, to use the siding while an oncoming passenger or freight train passes.

What is the benefit of double track or triple track?

Functioning much like a highway, double tracks allow for trains to pass one another, coming and going, thus eliminating the need for trains to wait for oncoming trains in sidings. Areas with greater train volume require an additional track or third track. This makes for more efficient freight and passenger rail movement. It also reduces delays and emissions from idling trains. Installing double or triple track is called ‘double tracking’ or ‘triple tracking.’ BNSF’s TransCon Corridor is nearly all double and triple tracked.

What is a Public–Private Partnership?

Public-private partnerships combine the business interests of private companies with the diverse goals of local, state and federal government entities who are working in the interest of the public. Cooperation between the private and public sectors may, in many cases, allow both sides to achieve their respective goals better, faster, and at lower cost. When more freight moves by rail, the public benefits through lower shipping costs, reduced highway gridlock, enhanced mobility, lower fuel consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved safety. And, since the railroads contribute funding commensurate with the benefits they receive -- It’s a win-win for all involved.

What is a grade separation?

An elevated or depressed structure to allow a train to run above or below a roadway or another rail line. Grade separations generally allow traffic to move freely, with fewer interruptions, at higher overall speeds, and the reduction in traffic conflict decreases the probability of accidents.

What is AASHTO?

AASHTO is the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. AASHTO is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing highway and transportation departments in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. It represents all five transportation modes: air, highways, public transportation, rail, and water. Its primary goal is to foster the development, operation, and maintenance of an integrated national transportation system.

How can I learn more about railroad’s role in the U.S. economy and freight system?

Please visit American Association of Railroads at http://www.aar.org/homepage.html