CN plans capital program to upgrade western Canada feeder rail lines

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor

Canadian National's multi-year capital program will invest approximately CA$500 million (US$409 million) in infrastructure improvements for its western Canada feeder rail lines in Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan that are handling rising volumes of industrial products, natural resources and energy-related commodities.

 

In 2015, CN will allocate approximately CA$100 million (US$82 million) for work on northern Alberta branch lines, investing in infrastructure upgrades and safety improvements, including heavier rail, crushed rock ballast and new ties, to ensure the network can efficiently accommodate future freight volume growth in the Peace River region.

“CN is building for the future with large capital investments in long-term safety and capacity improvements to ensure it continues to play its role as a true backbone of the economy,” said Claude Mongeau, president and chief executive officer. “CN sees significant long-term potential in its customer base located on its western Canada feeder network. We want to provide our customers with the capacity for continued efficient freight transportation services that increase their competitiveness in North American and global markets, as well as ensure our rail infrastructure is as safe as possible.”

CN continues to see rising freight volumes in western Canada, which have increased by more than 50 percent in the past five years. Given this growth, CN has also invested significantly in its Edmonton-Winnipeg mainline corridor, installing sections of double track, extending sidings to accommodate longer more efficient trains and improving major classification yards.

 

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