Slow train coming

Synopsis

On the main line of the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railroad in North Dakota, trains over 100 cars long frequently transport grain and crude oil. Despite the state's booming oil production and agricultural output, businesses face severe congestion on BNSF, part of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway group. Grain elevators in Minot, North Dakota, are filled beyond capacity, impacting revenue for local businesses. Executives report receiving only a fraction of the rail cars needed, leading to significant financial losses. In response to these challenges, BNSF initiates a major project to double approximately 270 miles of track between Minot and Glasgow, Montana, aiming to enhance capacity for the increasing oil and grain traffic. Additionally, a specialized machine near Ross, North Dakota, is finalizing work on another section of double track, which will improve delivery times for customers and accommodate the expansion of oil production in the region.