Intermodal Network Update for Friday, January 31, 2025

OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE
BNSF is currently addressing service challenges that have impacted normal train operations on the western end of our Southern Transcon route, which runs between Southern California and the Midwest. Last weekend, traffic delays occurred as our operations and engineering teams successfully completed the implementation of new bridge spans approximately 40 miles west of Needles, California. These repairs were essential for enhancing the long-term resilience and reliability of the track in this area. 

BNSF crews installing a bridge span on the Needles Subdivision – January 2025

However, after completing the work, extreme winter weather in the Southwest, with temperature fluctuations exceeding 40 degrees, caused track and equipment issues on the Needles Subdivision, which extends east from Barstow, California, to Arizona. In response, BNSF has activated a 24/7 command center and allocated extra resources and responders to expedite recovery efforts and minimize impacts on our customers’ freight. We have seen good progress over the past 24 hours, and we anticipate that operations will improve over the weekend and into next week.

Despite these challenges, key service metrics have improved in several areas over our reporting period. Average car velocity has increased by five percent compared to the previous week, although it is slightly lower than December. Terminal dwell time has been slightly reduced, and local service has improved by four percent compared to the previous week, remaining over three percent higher than the average level from last month.

2025 CAPITAL PLAN
BNSF announced its 2025 capital investment plan last week, which totals $3.8 billion. This plan aims to ensure the operation of a safe and reliable network while addressing the anticipated needs of our customers. 

The largest component of this year’s plan is $2.84 billion, dedicated to replacing and upgrading rail and track infrastructure, including ballast and rail ties, as well as maintaining rolling stock. This maintenance investment is essential for keeping the railroad in top condition, which helps minimize unscheduled service outages that can hinder the rail network and reduce capacity. This year’s program includes 11,400 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, the replacement of 2.5 million rail ties, and 410 miles of rail.

Furthermore, approximately $535 million of the capital plan has been earmarked for expansion and efficiency projects, adding to more than $2.6 billion invested in expansion initiatives over the past five years. We will provide further details on capacity projects in subsequent updates throughout the year.

SERVICE EXPECTATIONS FOR THE WEEK AHEAD
Winter storm warnings are currently in effect for parts of the Pacific Northwest, Central and Northern California, and Northern Nevada. Heavy rain is expected, with accumulations ranging from 8 to 12 inches, along with mountain snow throughout the weekend. By Sunday, another storm system will bring cold temperatures and snow to the Northern Plains at the start of the week. BNSF teams are prepared to implement winter action plans in response to severe weather conditions and will address any service disruptions as quickly as possible.

For the rest of the BNSF network, favorable operating conditions are anticipated for the upcoming week.
 
We thank you for your business and appreciate the opportunity to serve as your transportation service provider. We welcome your feedback and questions.