BNSF plans $3.9 billion capital program in 2012

BNSF plans a 2012 capital commitment program of approximately $3.9 billion, a $400 million increase over its 2011 capital spend of $3.5 billion.

The largest component of the capital plan is spending $2.1 billion on BNSF’s core network and related assets. BNSF also plans to spend approximately $1.1 billion on locomotive, freight car and other equipment acquisitions. The program also includes about $300 million for federally mandated positive train control (PTC) and $400 million for terminal, line and intermodal expansion and efficiency projects. BNSF’s expansion and efficiency projects will be primarily focused on coal routes to improve velocity and throughput capacity and the new intermodal facility at Kansas City.

“Investment in BNSF’s rail freight infrastructure is an investment in American jobs and competitiveness. It will ensure our infrastructure remains strong and improve the efficiency of our operations,” said Matthew K. Rose, BNSF chairman and chief executive officer. “BNSF remains committed to making the necessary investments to maintain and grow the value of our franchise’s capacity to meet customers’ needs and to provide the nation’s supply chain with more efficient freight transportation.”