The Hondo Railway (HRR) was named Shortline of the Year at BNSF Railway's 15th annual Shortline Conference held in Irving, Texas, on October 13, 2011.

"The Hondo Railway has exceeded BNSF's expectations through innovation, determination, vision and entrepreneurial spirit," said Dean Wise, BNSF vice president, Network Strategy.

"This conference brings together our shortline partners allowing us to share best practices and discuss ways we can work together to continue to offer our mutual customers exceptional service," said Wise. "Hondo Railway exemplifies that mission and should be commended for their commitment to this industry."

BNSF said HRR has reacted quickly to new business opportunities by investing capital to establish a market presence. It is on pace to more than double its volumes this year due to its focused and intense marketing efforts. Since the opening of its facility in Hondo, Texas, in 2006, HRR has more than tripled the size of its yard and purchased additional locomotives and equipment. HRR currently operates more than 80,000 feet of track within the 56-acre facility. BNSF also said HRR is well positioned to handle commodities needed by Eagle Ford Shale oilfield service companies, including frac sand and drilling mud, and is capable of handling bulk, dimensional and liquid commodities in unit or manifest trains.

BNSF also presented Achievement Awards to Watco Companies, LLC, and The Minnesota Commercial Railway.

Watco was recognized for its "Focus on Improvement." Watco was the first company to help beta test the new BNSF Shortline Velocity Tool. A number of Watco suggestions were incorporated in the tool to make it more valuable to BNSF's shortline partners. Watco's efforts clearly demonstrate their commitment to finding ways to work better and smarter.