Watco: 2024 Infrastructure Investments
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Watco
PITTSBURG, Kan. - Watco detailed its infrastructure improvements throughout 2024.
In its newsletter, Watco went through its investments into short line infrastructure across its network. These include the following below:
Agawa Canyon Railroad (ACR)
ACR deployed 10 solar-powered flood monitors along 200 miles of track, according to Watco. These monitor the water levels on remote sections of the line and send alerts if flooding occurs.
Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad (KO)
KO finished its final phase of upgrades to the South Yard in Wichita. These upgrades include new switches, turnouts, ties, and rail throughout the yard. This allows for more streamlined traffic where it interchanges with two Class Is and the South Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad (SKOL).
South Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad (SKOL)
SKOL crews finished improvements across its line, including a complete rebuild of the UP interchange and constructing an 8,000 foot siding in Oswego, Kansas. This helps to support traffic coming from Bartlett Grain’s facility.
Wisconsin & Southern Railroad (WSOR)
WSOR reportedly opened a 15,000-square-foot locomotive shop that includes a drop pit and a 25-ton crane in Wisconsin. This allows the short line to expand its repair and inspection capabilities. WSOR’s Bridge 334 on the Reedsburg Subdivision received two replacements of major spans, ten rehabilitated piers, over 500 feet of replaced tie deck, and 1,200 feet of installed rail.
Ringneck & Western Railroad (RWRR)
RWRR crews repaired bridges, track, and crossings after flooding occurred last year. This includes 25,000 tons of ballast dumped and steel sheeting installed to reinforce creek banks.
Stillwater Central Railroad (SLWC)
SLWC crews worked to demolish and rebuild a timber bridge measuring 312 feet and 23 spans in Oklahoma. The new concrete structure measures 162 feet and includes only six spans. Watco says this will make the structure more resilient against future flood and fire damage.
Verdigris Southern Railroad (VESO)
In 2024, VESO joined Watco, and since then, 4 miles of track were built to connect customers to UP.
Alabama Southern Railroad (ABS)
ABS has reportedly updated its hot-box detectors to help its teams become aware of any issues that arise with the bearings.
The Fox Valley & Lake Superior Rail System, Louisiana Southern Railroad, and Mississippi Southern Railroad
These short lines saw composite tie installation totaling 1,000 ties at different locations.
