U.S. and global economies rely on rail, and BNSF is a vital link in the global supply chain. We enable our customers to participate in a wide range of markets in North America and around the world. Recognizing our contribution to our nation’s economy, we work to listen and respond to customers’ needs, maintain strong corporate governance, provide value to our owners, and strategically invest to keep our rail network strong. We generate:
Providing Needed Capacity
We serve a wide variety of shippers in nearly all U.S. industries, and we are working to provide consistent, reliable service today and to build our capacity to meet future demand. We’re maintaining and improving our infrastructure, expanding capacity as needed and investing in our fleet of locomotives and railcars. We’re also constantly investing to ensure our network will safely and efficiently meet freight transportation needs for decades to come.
Maintaining and Expanding Infrastructure for a Strong Network
Unlike other modes of transportation, U.S. railroads, including BNSF, own and maintain their rights of way. We fund the building, maintenance and repair of a private “rail highway” that delivers tremendous transportation value for our customers and the nation.
According to the Association of American Railroads (AAR), railroads spent more than $700 billion on their privately owned networks between 1980 and 2019.
We have made significant investments in our network. That includes maintaining a strong railroad through strategic investments in expanding track, yards and terminals; track renewal; technology; and new locomotives. These substantial investments reflect our strong commitment to a safe and reliable rail network.
Outlook for Future Capacity Growth
The challenge throughout the rail industry is realizing a sufficient return on invested capital to enable investments that will meet long-term capacity needs. At BNSF, we work to sustain adequate returns so we can maintain and build our network to meet our shippers’ transportation needs.
All of our investments in capital, asset utilization, people and technology help ensure we have the capacity to meet current and future freight transportation needs, while also improving our operating reliability and efficiency. The result is a stronger transportation infrastructure for our nation and a more reliable supply chain for our customers.