BNSF’s Chihuahuita Connection represents “win-win”
Written by jrood
The completion of BNSF Railway's Chihuahuita Connection represents a "win-win" for the railroad, the Chihuahuita neighborhood, the City of El Paso, Texas, and rail customers using the El Paso/Juarez border gateway.
The Chihuahuita
Connection, operating since early June, provides BNSF improved flexibility in
its operations, which supports economic development and jobs for El Paso, along
with improved border infrastructure to support trade between the U.S. and
Mexico. The Chihuahuita neighborhood will see train movements over the Canal
Street crossing reduced by up to 50 percent, leading to greater integration
between the neighborhood and the rest of El Paso. With fewer trains using the
crossing, the community will benefit from enhanced mobility, better emergency
vehicle access, and a reduced risk of accidents.
"BNSF has been an
important part of the El Paso community for more than 100 years and we look
forward to participating in the continued development of the city," said Frank
Hernandez, BNSF Director of Transportation, U.S. – Mexico. "It is important
that BNSF be a good neighbor and partner to improve the quality of life in
communities where we operate," Hernandez added.
The Chihuahuita
Connection, in conjunction with a rail-highway grade separation project in the
City of Juarez, now programmed by Mexico’s Transport and Communications
Ministry, is expected to significantly reduce freight congestion at this
US-Mexico Border crossing, and improve livability and critical infrastructure
for the local economies.
The BNSF Chihuahuita
Connection, which was completed ahead of schedule and under budget, was made
possible through a joint effort of the Texas Department of Transportation, the
City of El Paso and BNSF. The project utilized funds from the American Recovery
and Rehabilitation Act as well as private BNSF contributions.
"I am happy to be a small
part of a big difference in one of the most historic neighborhoods in El Paso,"
said Joe C. Pickett, Chairman, Texas House Transportation Committee. "Along
with the City, and BNSF railroad and TxDOT, I am glad we were all able to come
together and help."
