RCE hosts Rep Bustos for tour, rail discussion

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
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Left to right: Steve Benck, Rep. Bustos and Diane Benck

On May 31, 2016, Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17), a member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, joined representatives from Rail Construction Equipment (RCE) to tour the manufacturing facility, learn about various rail construction products and discuss public policy priorities for the business and rail communities in northwest Illinois.

 

The Railway Engineering-Maintenance and Suppliers Association (REMSA) coordinated the event and RCE’s President and Owner Steve Benck led the tour.

“A strong railroad industry, which continues to invest billions into its rail system, is critical to our business and supporting manufacturing jobs in Rockford,” said Benck. “We are honored to be joined by Rep. Bustos and appreciate her willingness to learn about our commitment to the community and the critical role rail plays in supporting Illinois jobs.”

RCE adapts conventional John Deere construction equipment, such as excavators, wheel loaders and motor graders to specific railroad maintenance tasks, such as tie-tamping or right-of-way clearing. They maintain a 90,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility that is shared with RCE’s sister company, West Side Tractor.

“It was a pleasure to participate in the tour and to learn more about the work RCE is doing here in Rockford,” said Rep. Bustos. “I look forward to continuing to engage with all stakeholders so we can create jobs, grow our local economy and ensure our communities are safely and efficiently served by freight and passenger rail service alike.”

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