2010 Montana State Rail Plan Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-1 3.0 State Rail Planning 3.1 MONTANA RAIL SYSTEM SUMMARY In 2006, eight freight railroads operated 3,238 rail miles in Montana (excluding trackage rights). 26 These eight carriers include: BNSF Railway (BNSF); Union Pacific (UP); Dakota, Missouri Valley, and Western (DMVW); Montana Rail Link (MRL); Central Montana Rail (CMR); Mission Mountain Railroad (MMR); Yellowstone Valley Railroad (YVR); and Rarus/Butte, Anaconda, and Pacific Railway (BAP). Table 3.1 summarizes the rail miles contributed by each carrier and Figure 3.1 illustrates the State’s freight railroad network. Table 3.1 Montana Railroad Statistics Miles of Railroad Operated in Montana 2000 2005 2006 BNSF Railway 2,135 1,983 1,942 Union Pacific 125 125 125 Class I Railroads Total 2,260 2,108 2,067 Dakota, Missouri Valley, and Western 57 58 58 Montana Rail Link 812 807 807 Regional Railroads Total 869 865 865 Central Montana Rail 87 88 88 Mission Mountain Railroad N/A 39 39 Yellowstone Valley Railroad N/A 186 186 Montana Western Railway 59 N/A N/A Butte, Anaconda and Pacific Railway 69 25 25 Local Railroads Total 215 338 338 Network Total 3,344 3,311 3,270 Source: 2005 and 2006 data from the Association of American Railroads, 2000 data from the 2000 Montana State Rail Plan Update. Note: Miles operated includes trackage rights. One mile of single track is counted the same as one mile of double track. 26 Rail miles, synonymous with route miles, represents the total miles of road in freight service operation. One mile of single track is counted the same as one mile of double track. Lines operated under trackage rights are attributed only to the owning railroad. The total excludes sidings, turnouts, yard switching mileage, and mileage not in operation.
63
Embed
3.0 State Rail Planning€¦ · and reflect the volume of freight traffic flowing over railway segments. In Montana, the BSNF main lines have the highest freight rail densities, followed
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-1
3.0 State Rail Planning
3.1 MONTANA RAIL SYSTEM SUMMARY In 2006, eight freight railroads operated 3,238 rail miles in Montana (excluding trackage rights).26 These eight carriers include: BNSF Railway (BNSF); Union Pacific (UP); Dakota, Missouri Valley, and Western (DMVW); Montana Rail Link (MRL); Central Montana Rail (CMR); Mission Mountain Railroad (MMR); Yellowstone Valley Railroad (YVR); and Rarus/Butte, Anaconda, and Pacific Railway (BAP). Table 3.1 summarizes the rail miles contributed by each carrier and Figure 3.1 illustrates the State’s freight railroad network.
Table 3.1 Montana Railroad Statistics
Miles of Railroad Operated in Montana 2000 2005 2006
BNSF Railway 2,135 1,983 1,942
Union Pacific 125 125 125
Class I Railroads Total 2,260 2,108 2,067
Dakota, Missouri Valley, and Western 57 58 58
Montana Rail Link 812 807 807
Regional Railroads Total 869 865 865
Central Montana Rail 87 88 88
Mission Mountain Railroad N/A 39 39
Yellowstone Valley Railroad N/A 186 186
Montana Western Railway 59 N/A N/A
Butte, Anaconda and Pacific Railway 69 25 25
Local Railroads Total 215 338 338
Network Total 3,344 3,311 3,270
Source: 2005 and 2006 data from the Association of American Railroads, 2000 data from the 2000 Montana State Rail Plan Update.
Note: Miles operated includes trackage rights. One mile of single track is counted the same as one mile of double track.
26 Rail miles, synonymous with route miles, represents the total miles of road in freight
service operation. One mile of single track is counted the same as one mile of double track. Lines operated under trackage rights are attributed only to the owning railroad. The total excludes sidings, turnouts, yard switching mileage, and mileage not in operation.
2
3
F
2010 Montana State
3-2
Figure 3.1 Mo
Rail Plan
ontana Rail Sysstem
Cambridge Syystematics, Inc.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-3
Montana railroads carried over 2.1 million total carloads in 2006, accounting for nearly 110 million total tons of freight. The railroads employed 3,157 people in the State, an increase of 35 employees from the previous year.27
Rail Density
The Federal Rail Administration (FRA) maintains a database of density codes for rail segments along the rail network throughout the country. Figure 3.2 displays rail density throughout Montana for 2006. The FRA density coding system con-sists of values 1 through 6, with 6 being the most densely traveled. The density codes are based on a measurement of million gross ton-miles per mile (MGTM) and reflect the volume of freight traffic flowing over railway segments. In Montana, the BSNF main lines have the highest freight rail densities, followed by the Montana Rail Link main line between Sandpoint, Idaho and Billings. All of the short-line railroads have a density of 1, hauling between 0.1 to 4.9 MGTM in 2006.
27 Association of American Railroads, Railroad Service in Montana 2006, June 2008.
Available at: http://www.aar.org/PubCommon/Documents/AboutTheIndustry/RRState_MT.pdf. Association of American Railroads, Railroad Service in Montana 2005, November 2006.
2
3
F
S
2010 Montana State
3-4
Figure 3.2 Mo20
Source: Federal Rail A
Rail Plan
ontana Rail Den006
Administration.
nsity
Cambridge Syystematics, Inc.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-5
3.2 MONTANA’S RAILROADS
Introduction
This section describes the operating characteristics of Montana’s freight rail sys-tem by owner. System characteristics include key station mileposts, maximum operating speeds (for both freight and passenger trains, where applicable), maximum gross car weight, annual operating statistics, primary commodities hauled, and track control processes.
Track control processes, defined for each railroad segment, provide authoriza-tion for a train to occupy a main track. Defining the terminology used through-out this section, the railroads in Montana operate under the following track control processes:
Centralized Traffic Control (CTC) – A system in which signals indicate authorized train movements and when it is safe for a train to proceed. Sig-nals may be used to control traffic in both directions and may be automatic or directly controlled by a dispatcher.
Occupancy Control System (OCS) – Also known as “dark territory,” OCS refers to a nonsignal-based system designed to ensure that no more than one train occupies a given section of main track at a time. Two examples of unsignalized systems used in Montana include:
– Track Warrant Control (TWC) – Used on unsignalized systems, a track war-rant provides permission to occupy main track between two specific points, typically defined by stations and mileposts. Dispatchers typically issue track warrants verbally by radio.
– Block Register Territory (BRT) – Typically used on branch lines normally occupied by one train at a time, BRT requires that a train crew record the date and time of a proposed movement in the Block Register before pro-ceeding. Previous entries in the Block Register are completed after a train has cleared the territory. If a second train needs to occupy the BRT at the same time, movements of both trains are required to operate at Restricted Speed (typically no faster than 15 mph).
Automatic Block Signal (ABS) – A series of signals that control blocks of track between the signals. The signals automatically detect track occupancy by way of a low-voltage current running through the track and protects fol-lowing trains traveling in a signaled direction. Unlike CTC signals, ABS system signals are not centrally controlled.
The rail operating characteristics for each rail segment were compiled from each owning railroad’s timetables and track charts. Operating statistics were com-piled from annual reports to the Montana Public Service Commission for the reporting years from 2005 to 2007. Where rail operators have divided their sys-tem into multiple subdivisions, the operating characteristics of each subdivision
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-6 Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
are summarized individually. Note that detailed information on certain charac-teristics – such as track weight capacity and speed limits – is not available for all railroads in the State.
Union Pacific Railroad (UP)
Within the United States, Union Pacific (UP) controls 50,900 track miles, including route miles, other main line track, passing lanes, turnouts, and switching and classification yards. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, the UP system serves 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country.28
UP is one of two Class I railroads in Montana. As of 2007, UP operated a total of 141 track miles in the State, consisting of 125.8 main line miles, seven miles of running track, 1 mile of way-switching, and eight miles of yard switching. Figure 3.3 displays UP’s Montana Subdivision. Despite having a relatively limited number of track miles in the State, UP provides a critical connection between the Port of Montana (MP 390) in Silver Bow (a name for a track inter-change area in Silver Bow County) and markets in the Western U.S. and southwestern U.S. which are not accessible by other rail carriers in the State. The border is at MP 264.25.
28 Figures as of December 31, 2007. Union Pacific Corporation, 2007 Analyst Fact Book.
Cambridge Systemat
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
e 3.3 Unio
Montana Depar
on Pacific –
rtment of Transpo
Montana Su
ortation.
ubdivision
2010 MMontana State Ra
ail Plan
3-7
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-8 Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
Table 3.2 exhibits UP operating statistics in Montana from 2005 through 2007. UP owns and operates an automotive distribution center in Silver Bow County, which delivered 1,107 carloads of transportation equipment in 2007. Forest products, combined with lumber and wood products, accounted for approx-imately 75 percent of the tonnage originating in Montana. Other key commodi-ties transported on the line include chemicals and allied products, petroleum and coal products, and nonmetallic minerals (except fuels).
Table 3.2 Union Pacific Operating Statistics in Montana 2005-2007
Source: 2005-2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
Note: Carload and tonnage data not reported for 2006.
BNSF Railway (BNSF)
BNSF Railway (BNSF) operates in 28 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces. The total system consists of approximately 32,000 route miles of track or 50,000 operated miles of track (including single and multiple main tracks, easements, yard tracks and sidings). In Montana, BNSF is one of two Class I railroads and operates 94 percent of the State’s Class I rail miles. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, BNSF employs approximately 40,000 personnel company-wide.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-9
As of 2007, BNSF employed 1,855 employees in Montana with a payroll of over $118 million.
Table 3.3 displays summary operating information for BNSF, while Table 3.4 provides detailed operating statistics within the State between 2005 and 2007. Coal accounts for approximately 75 percent of BNSF’s revenue freight (in terms of tonnage) originating within Montana. Other key commodities hauled by BNSF in Montana include farm products, lumber and wood products, and petroleum and coal products.
Source: 2005-2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
The BSNF rail system operating in Montana is divided into the 23 subdivisions shown in Figure 3.4. The remainder of this section describes the location and operating characteristics of each BNSF branch and main line subdivision oper-ating in Montana.29
Other Commodities 507,751 510,042 407,052 6,883,993 7,498,876 7,482,433
Total Moves 1,896,538 1,863,358 1,758,106 84,309,209 84,950,022 89,365,914
Terminating
Coal 6,724 7,344 7,710 766,239 849,333 872,255
Petroleum and Coal Products 2,525 2,428 3,089 194,889 235,866 282,909
Lumber and Wood Products 3,554 3,988 2,486 295,205 342,651 224,010
Chemicals and Allied Products 1,469 1,555 2,399 139,097 144,602 220,330
Food and Kindred Products 1,739 1,994 2,190 140,333 172,234 203,438
Metallic Ores 760 806 2,026 76,374 79,842 198,777
Other Commodities 13,447 14,133 13,600 540,866 632,428 646,307
Total Moves 30,218 32,258 33,500 2,153,003 2,456,956 2,648,026
Source: 2005-2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
a Other Commodities include categories such as: Metallic Ores; Crude, Petro, Natural Gas; Nonmetallic Minerals except Fuels; Pulp, Paper, and Allied Products; Primary Metal Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Transportation Equipment; Waste and Scrap; Shipping Containers, Returned Empty; and Hazardous Waste.
C
F
S
Cambridge Systemati
Figure 3.4 BN
Source: Montana Depa
ics, Inc.
NSF Statewide S
artment of Transportatio
System Overvie
on.
ew
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-11
2010 Monta
3-12
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The KWhiteMP 14Idaholocate(MP 1the mnectinmain mum to 79 segmemum
Figure
Source:
30 BNSF
lan
ivision A –
Kootenai Riefish (MP 12403.3 and M
o with the sted between1350.3), Troy
main line conng to the Hi-line serves speeds alonmph for paents (totaling gross car we
e 3.5 BNS
Montana Depar
F Railway, Tr
Kootenai R
iver Subdiv217.5) to SanMP 2.9). Thtate border n Whitefishy (MP 1337.9ntinues on to-Line main lAmtrak pas
ng the line raassenger servg 9.3 miles) eight of 143
SF – Kooten
rtment of Transpo
rack Chart – Ko
River30
vision, showndpoint Junere are 133at MP 1350.h and Sa
9), and Libbyo Spokane, Wine (Subdivi
ssenger servange from 20vice. The li operate with tons.
ai River Sub
ortation.
ootenai River S
wn in Figurnction, Idaho.2 miles in 65. Twenty
andpoint Juy (MP 1319.6Washington ision B) at W
vice as well a0 mph to 60ine operatesh two main
bdivision
Subdivision, R
Camb
re 3.5, is a o (which isMontana an
y-five additiunction, in6). From San (MP 71.5, n
Whitefish, thas freight op
0 mph for fres under CTC tracks. The
Revised Janua
bridge Systemati
main line numbered nd 52.6 milional station
ncluding Lendpoint Junc
not shown). he Kootenai Rperations. Meight and 20C and two e line has a m
ary 2007.
ics, Inc.
from both les in ns are eonia ction, Con-River Maxi-0 mph
short maxi-
Cam
bridge Systemat
Subdi
The Hand vjust eawest. meetsthe Mare 37freigh60 mpspeedoperaalong
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision B –
Hi-Line Subdvisible lines ast of Pacific Supporting
s the KootenMilk River m
7 additionalht service. Mph (freight).ds between 4
tions. The several sect
e 3.6 BNS
Montana Depar
Hi-Line
division is ain the Statec Junction (M
g both Amtranai River maimain line (Su
l stations aMaximum s. However
45 and 70 mpHi-Line ma
tions of the l
SF – Hi-Line
rtment of Transpo
a 253.5-mile . As shownMP 964) on tak passengein line (Subd
ubdivision Clong the linspeeds alonr, various pph for passenain line is oine. Maxim
Subdivisio
ortation.
main line an in Figure 3the east to W
er service andivision A) a
C) at Pacific ne, which i
ng the line apermanent nger service
operated by mum gross ca
n
2010 M
and one of t3.6, the east-Whitefish (M
nd freight opat WhitefishJunction on
include bothare 79 mph restrictions
e and 30 to 55 CTC with ar weight lim
Montana State Ra
the most uti-west route
MP 1217.5) operations, theh on the wesn the east. Th passenger (passenger)
limit servic5 mph for frtwo main t
mit is 143 ton
ail Plan
3-13
ilized from
on the e line
st and There r and ) and ce to reight tracks ns.
2010 Monta
3-14
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The MGlasgHi-Lin(Subd(MP 3429.3, freigh60 mpline. (MP 4two in
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision C –
Milk River Sgow (MP 278ne main lin
division D) o343.3), Harle 430.4, and
ht operationph for freigh
The line is 431.9) to the Hn Havre (AD
e 3.7 BNS
Montana Depar
Milk River
Subdivision 8.2) to Pacifine (Subdivison the east. em (MP 387.431.9). The
ns. Maximuht trains. Ma
operated byHi-Line Sub
DMS/CHS L
SF – Milk Riv
rtment of Transpo
r
(Figure 3.7) ic Junction (Msion B) on The line has.7), and fou line supporum speeds aximum grosy CTC and udivision. Th
LLC), and on
ver Subdivis
ortation.
is a 155.8-mMP 434), nethe west as 16 addition
ur stations inrts Amtrak are 79 mph
ss car weighuses two m
he line servene in Harlem
sion
Camb
mile main linear Havre. Ind the Glanal stations,n the Havrepassenger sh for passeht is 143 tons
main tracks frs three grain
m (Columbia
bridge Systemati
ne segment It connects tasgow main, including Me area (MP 4service as wenger trainss along the erom Havre
e which conn Figure 3.11d Valier Junand 10 mph nd the maxim
ics, Inc.
nnects 1, the
nction from mum
Cam
bridge Systemat
Subdi
Chote(MP 0Grainline (Sonly sspeedMaximbranch
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision H –
eau Subdivis0.0) to Choten elevator. TSubdivision stations alon
d to 10 mph mum speedsh line is ope
e 3.12 BNS
Montana Depar
– Choteau
sion, shown au (MP 29.6The Choteau F) at Powerng the line. along almoss of 25 mph erated by TW
SF – Chotea
rtment of Transpo
in Figure 3.16), where it su branch linr. Eastham Permanentst three-four are permitt
WC with a m
u Subdivisio
ortation.
12, is a branserves a Cenne convergeJunction (M
t restrictionsrths of the Sted between
maximum gro
on
2010 M
nch line that nex Harvest Ses with the G
MP 21.1) ands limit the mSubdivision’n mileposts 2oss car weig
Montana State Ra
runs from PStates, Inc. CGreat Falls Choteau ar
maximum fr’s 29-mile le21 and 27.9.
ght of 143 ton
ail Plan
3-19
Power Co-op main
re the reight ength. The
ns.
2010 Monta
3-20
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The F(MP 0elevatEasthaweighrestric
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision I – F
Fairfield Sub0.6) to Fairfitor in Fairfieam Junction
ht limit of 1ction to 10 m
e 3.13 BNS
Montana Depar
Fairfield
bdivision is eld (MP 11.6eld and inte
n. The line 143 tons. M
mph near Fai
SF – Fairfield
rtment of Transpo
a branch lin6) (Figure 3.ersects the C operates uMaximum sirfield and o
d Subdivisio
ortation.
ne that exte.13). This sChoteau bra
under TWC speed alongon all sidings
on
Camb
ends from Eshort segmenanch line (Swith a max
g the line iss.
bridge Systemati
Eastham Junnt serves a
Subdivision Hximum gross 25 mph w
ics, Inc.
nction grain H) at ss car
with a
Cam
bridge Systemat
Subdi
The Fruns fwith (SubdBentoServinline hspeedrestricThe F
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision J – F
ort Benton Sfrom Fort Bboth the La
divisions N an (MP 74.6),
ng two grainhas a maximd is listed asctions limit sort Benton li
e 3.14 BNS
Montana Depar
Fort Benton
Subdivision,enton (MP 7aurel and Gand F, resp, Carter (MPn elevator f
mum gross cs 25 mph alspeeds to 10ine operates
SF – Fort Be
rtment of Transpo
n
shown in F73.6) to GreGreat Falls
pectively). SP 90.3), Portaacilities, onecar weight llong the fu
0 mph along s under TWC
enton Subdiv
ortation.
Figure 3.14, iat Falls (MPmain lines
Stations aloage (MP 102e in Carter limit of 143
ull length ofg several shoC.
vision
2010 M
is a 45.7-mileP 119.3). Th in the City
ong the rout2.9), and Sheand one in tons. Whif the line, port segments
Montana State Ra
e branch linehe line convy of Great te include: effels (MP 1Fort Bentonle the maxim
permanent ss of 1 mile or
ail Plan
3-21
e that erges Falls
Fort 08.1).
n, the mum speed r less.
2010 Monta
3-22
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The BMP 32Laredvices and M(MP 0mum length
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision K –
Big Sandy Su2.1 in Big S
do (MP 10.8)an ADM/C
Milk River m0.0). The lin gross car wh.
e 3.15 BNS
Montana Depar
Big Sandy
ubdivision bSandy (Figu, Box Elder
CHS grain famain lines (Sune operates uweight is rest
SF – Big San
rtment of Transpo
begins at Mure 3.15). S (MP 20.8), a
acility in Bigubdivisions Bunder TWC tricted to 14
ndy Subdivi
ortation.
MP 0.0 in PacStations alonand Big San
g Sandy andB and C, res with a 10 m3 tons along
sion
Camb
cific Junctionng this bran
ndy (MP 31.2d converges spectively) a
mph maximug the Subdiv
bridge Systemati
n and extennch line inc2). This linewith the Hi
at Pacific Junum speed. Mvision’s 31.2
ics, Inc.
nds to clude e ser-i-Line nction Maxi-2-mile
Cambridge Systemat
Subdi
The HGreat the Laand Ftrains(locatecar stotons a
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision L –
Helena Subdi Falls (MP 1aurel and GF, respective. There areed 14.2 mileorage. The
and maximu
e 3.16 BNS
Montana Depar
Helena
ivision, show16.2) and He
Great Falls mely). The line known riv
es west of Gr line is contrm speed of 3
SF – Helena
rtment of Transpo
wn in Figureelena Junctio
main lines inne currentlyverbank stareat Falls). Rrolled by TW35 mph.
Subdivision
ortation.
e 3.16, is a 94on (210.9). T
n the City ofy is out of fability problRecently, thiWC with a m
n
2010 M
4.7-mile braThe line conf Great Fallsfunctional seems on theis segment hmaximum c
Montana State Ra
nch line betwnverges withs (Subdivisioervice for fr
e track near has been usecar weight o
ail Plan
3-23
ween h both ons N reight Ulm ed for of 143
2010 Monta
3-24
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The C(MP 5Bow (controtion odoes nbetwe
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision M –
Copper City 51.1). As sh(MP 7.0), Waolled by TWon the line isnot directly ceen MRL at G
e 3.17 BNS
Montana Depar
– Copper Ci
Main Line hown in Figu
arm SpringsWC. Maximu
s Occupancyconnect to oGarrison and
SF – Copper
rtment of Transpo
ity
Subdivisionure 3.17, oths (MP 25.2), um speed ony Permissionother BNSF sd UP at Silve
r City Subdiv
ortation.
n connects Bher stations a and Deer Ln this singlen System, i.esegments, buer Bow.
vision
Camb
Butte (MP 0.along the lin
Lodge (MP 4e-track is 25 e., “dark terut serves ope
bridge Systemati
0) with Garne include S40.5). The limph, and o
rritory.” Theerations brid
ics, Inc.
rrison Silver ine is
opera-e line dging
Cam
bridge Systemat
Subdi
The LGreat main the ea(MP 1line, atype oare limto betw
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision N –
Laurel Subdi Falls (MP 2line (Subdivast. There 135.1) and Band a 110-caof operation mited to 49 mween 25 and
e 3.18 BNS
Montana Depar
– Laurel
ivision, show224.5) and Mvision F) to tare 15 addi
Broadview (Mar shuttle fa is TWC, andmph along td 40 mph on
SF – Laurel S
rtment of Transpo
wn in FigurMossmain (Mthe west anditional statioMP 36.5). T
acility at Mod the maximthe line with
n several sho
Subdivision
ortation.
re 3.18, is a MP 0.47). Itd the Casperons along th
There are seoccasin ownemum gross cah permanenort segments
n
2010 M
224-mile mt connects tor mainline (She line, incl
everal grain ed by Unitear weight is
nt restrictionss of varying l
Montana State Ra
main line betwo the Great Subdivision luding Moc elevators oned/Harvest. 143 tons. Sps limiting splength.
ail Plan
3-25
ween Falls P) to
ccasin n the The peeds peeds
2010 Monta
3-26
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The L(MP 0FigureMP 13mum Glengthe lin
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision O –
Lewistown S0.0) to Lewie 3.19, inclu3.88 to MP 2 gross car w
garry to Lewne and the m
e 3.19 BNS
Montana Depar
– Lewistown
Subdivision istown (MP
ude Moore (27.35 was abweight is 143wistown. Trmaximum sp
SF – Lewisto
rtment of Transpo
n
is a single-tr 28.4). AddMP 7.4) and
bandoned an3 tons from rack warranteed is 25 mp
own Subdiv
ortation.
racked branditional statd Glengarrynd rail bank Sipple to G
nt control is ph.
ision
Camb
nch line runntions on the
y (MP 17.0). ked June 14, Glengarry an
in effect alo
bridge Systemati
ning from Se line, show The track 2007. The mnd 134 tons ong the leng
ics, Inc.
Sipple wn in
from maxi- from gth of
Cambridge Systemat
Subdi
The (MP 5sion aBridgespeedbetwein effe
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision P –
Casper Sub514.5). Five sare located er (486.8), F
d on the lineeen 20 and 3ect along the
e 3.20 Cas
Montana Depar
Casper
bdivision cstations andin Montana
Fromberg (49e is 40 mph, 30 mph on ae Montana se
per Subdivi
rtment of Transpo
connects Brd approximaa, including 93.7), and E with perma
a several segegments.
sion
ortation.
ridger Juncately 53.4 mil Warren (MEdgar (499.6anent restric
gments. “Da
2010 M
ction, Wyomles of the 38
MP 465.2), W6). The maxctions reducark Territory
Montana State Ra
ming to L81.3-mile sub
Wade (476.1),ximum opercing the spey” operation
ail Plan
3-27
Laurel bdivi-, East rating ed to
ns are
2010 Monta
3-28
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The BThe MFiguretrains60 mp
Figure
Source:
31 BNSF
lan
ivision Q –
Big Horn SubMontana poe 3.21. It is a in both dir
ph and maxi
e 3.21 Big
Montana Depar
F Railway, Po
– Big Horn3
bdivision conortion of tha major coalrections. Thmum car we
Horn Subdi
rtment of Transpo
owder River D
1
nnects Hunthe Big Horl-hauling mahe line is sineight of 144
vision
ortation.
Division Time
tley (MP 829rn line is 1ain line in thngle-trackedtons. The lin
etable No. 9, U
Camb
9.3) with She101.9 miles
he State, carrd with a mane operates
Updated July
bridge Systemati
eridan, Wyoms and showrying loadedaximum spe under CTC.
y 23, 2008.
ics, Inc.
ming. wn in d coal ed of .
Cam
bridge Systemat
Subdi
The FGlend(FigurMiles (MP 1freighranginand AMP 20
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision R –
Forsyth Subdive (MP 0.re 3.22). The City (MP 7
146.6), Custeht speed along from 25 t
ABS are in ef09.8. All oth
e 3.22 BNS
Montana Depar
Forsyth
bdivision is 0) to Jonesere are 19 ad78.6), Forsyter (MP 172.
ong the line to 50 mph. ffect from G
her segments
SF – Forsyth
rtment of Transpo
a main lins Junction
dditional statth (MP 123..3), and Po is 60 mph, The maxim
Glendive (MPs operate wit
h Subdivisio
ortation.
ne that spa(209.9) on
tions on the .8), Nichols ompey’s Pil with nume
mum gross cP 0.0) to MPth CTC.
on
2010 M
ans almost the east line, includ (MP 130.2),llar (MP 194erous permaar weight is
P 123.2 and f
Montana State Ra
210 miles side of Biling: Terry (, Sarpy Jun4.2). Maximanent restrics 143 tons. from MP 152
ail Plan
3-29
from llings 39.2),
nction mum ctions TWC 2.1 to
2010 Monta
3-30
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The Sbetwetions i(Subd40 mpThe li
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision S –
arpy Line Sueen Sarpy Juin between.
division R) foph except fone is operate
e 3.23 BNS
Montana Depar
Sarpy Line
ubdivision, sunction (MP The branchor Big Horn
or sidings aned by TWC
SF – Sarpy L
rtment of Transpo
e
shown in FiP 0.0) and Kh line serves n County. nd switches and has a m
Line Subdiv
ortation.
igure 3.23, isKuehn (MP 3
as a connecThe maxim
in Kuehn wmaximum gro
ision
Camb
s a single-tra37.4) with nction to the F
mum speed awhich are limoss car weig
bridge Systemati
acked branchno additionaForsyth mainalong the limited to 10
ght of 143 ton
ics, Inc.
h line al sta-n line ine is mph.
ns.
Cambridge Systemat
Subdi
The CEast Nnot toBNSFtrack cand CCount25 mpmaximswitch
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision T –
Colstrip SubdNichols Wyeo be confuse-owned traccontinues to
Colstrip (MPty. The ma
ph through mum gross whed with the
e 3.24 BNS
Montana Depar
Colstrip
division, shoe (MP 0.0) toed with the ck ends at Co Big Sky. OP 29.1). The aximum speColstrip anweight of cae Forsyth Ma
SF – Colstrip
rtment of Transpo
own in Figuro a rail loadcommunity
Cow Creek Other station
branch line eed along th
nd Big Sky. ars along thain Line (Sub
p Subdivisio
ortation.
re 3.24, is a bding facility y of the sam
(MP 33.1) ans along the l primarily sehe line is 4 TWC is u
he line is 143bdivision R)
on
2010 M
branch line known as B
me name in Gand Peabodyline include erves coal m
40 mph withused along 3 tons. The) at East Nich
Montana State Ra
which runs Big Sky (MPGallatin Couy Coal Com Nichols (MP
mines in Rosh a restrictiothe line and
e Colstrip Lihols.
ail Plan
3-31
from P 39.5, unty).
mpany P 0.5) sebud on to d the ine is
2010 Monta
3-32
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The H(MP 9of wh(MP 1Terry along maximline co
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision U –
Hettinger Su926) and justhich are loca1028.1), Isma (MP 1078.2) the line is 4
mum gross converges wi
e 3.25 BNS
Montana Depar
– Hettinger
ubdivision it past Terry,ted in Montay (MP 104) (Figure 3.240 mph withcar weight liith the Forsy
SF – Hetting
rtment of Transpo
is a main l, Montana (Mtana: Kingm3.9), Mildre
25). The borh permanentimit is 143 toyth main line
er Subdivis
ortation.
line betweeMP 1078.9).
mont (1005.8ed (1058.9), rder is at Mt restrictionsons, and the e (Subdivisio
sion
Camb
en Hettinger The line ha8), Baker (M Bluffport (
MP 1002.29. s to 20 mph operation tyon R) at Terr
bridge Systemati
r, North Daas 11 stationP 1015.6), Pl(MP 1073.3),Maximum s near Terry.ype is TWC.ry.
ics, Inc.
akota ns, six levna , and speed The . The
Cam
bridge Systemat
Subdi
The DMandthe DiMP 17(MP 1througweighthe li(Subd
Figure
Source:
tics, Inc.
ivision V –
Dickinson Sdan, North Dickinson ma76.7. There 109.2), Beachghout the lin
ht is 143 tonsne. The D
division R) at
e 3.26 BNS
Montana Depar
Dickinson
Subdivision Dakota (MP ain line is 39are 21 addit
h, (MP 174.2ne and varys and TWC
Dickinson mt Glendive.
SF – Dickins
rtment of Transpo
is a main 0.0) to Glen
9.1 miles andtional station), and Iona
y between 20and ABS op
main line int
son Subdivis
ortation.
line that rundive (215.8d shown in Fns along the(MP 200.5).
0 mph and 5perations areterchanges w
sion
2010 M
uns from M8). The MonFigure 3.26. route, inclu Speed rest50 mph. Mae in effect alowith the Fo
Montana State Ra
Mandan Yarntana segme The borderuding: Dickirictions fluc
aximum grosong the lengorsyth main
ail Plan
3-33
rd in ent of r is at inson ctuate ss car gth of n line
2010 Monta
3-34
ana State Rail P
Subdi
The CGlendLindsunderweigh
This lloadinbeen p
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision W –
Circle Subdivdive (MP 0.0ay (MP 24.4r TWC withht of 134 tons
line has wing facility copursued by t
e 3.27 Circ
Montana Depar
– Circle
vision, show0) and Circ) and Rimro
h a maximums.
tnessed deconstructed inthe railroad
cle Subdivis
rtment of Transpo
wn in Figurecle (MP 50.
oad (MP 30.8m track spe
creased usagn recent yea but currentl
ion
ortation.
e 3.27, is a 505). Station8), and Circleed of 10 mp
ge as a resars in nearbyly is on hold
Camb
0.5-mile branns include le (MP 50). Tph and max
sult of 110-cy Macon. Ad indefinitely
bridge Systemati
nch line betwFisher (MP
The line opeximum gros
car grain shAbandonmen
y.
ics, Inc.
ween P 7.8), erates ss car
huttle nt has
Cambridge Systemat
Cent
Centrroad Geraldtotal oJunctirized nects
Figure
Source:
32 Cent
33 Cent
tics, Inc.
tral Monta
al Montana which operdine (MP 13of 96.2 milesion (MP 20.0speed is 25 with the BN
e 3.28 Cen
Montana Depar
tral Montana
tral Montana
ana Rail (C
Rail, Inc. (Crates 88 rou35.2). It also s.32 There ar0 and MP 71 mph, with r
NSF Laurel m
tral Montan
rtment of Transpo
Rail, Inc., Mo
Rail, Inc., Tim
CMR)
CMR), showute miles be
includes 9.2e 11 total sta
1.7), and Denrestrictions i
main line (Su
a Rail
ortation.
ontana Rail Ro
metable No. 9,
wn in Figureetween Mocc2 miles of swations alongnton (MP 95in select are
ubdivision O
oad Statistics,
, February 1,
2010 M
3.28, is a Ccasin Juncti
witching tracg the line, inc5.2).33 The meas to 10 mp
O) at Moccasi
, December 20
2005.
Montana State Ra
Class III localion (MP 0.0)cks for an ovcluding Kingmaximum auph. The linein.
007.
ail Plan
3-35
l rail-) and verall gston utho-
e con-
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-36 Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
Operating statistics for the years 2005 through 2007 are detailed in Table 3.5. While wheat accounted for approximately 92 percent of CMRs total revenue freight in each reporting year, CMR also hauled barley, fertilizer, and scrap. In 2007, CMR transported a total of 82,100 tons, attributing to an intrastate oper-ating revenue of $617,827. A seasonal passenger/tourism train also operates on the line.
Table 3.5 Central Montana Rail Operating Statistics 2005-2007
Source: 2005-2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
Montana Rail Link (MRL)34
Montana Rail Link (MRL) has been in operation since October 1987 after assuming control of Montana’s southern route from the Burlington Northern Railroad. Today, MRL is a Class II regional railroad operating more than 900 miles of track in its system throughout Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Of the 875 miles of track located in Montana, MRL leases approximately 70 percent of its road, including 557 miles of main line leased from BNSF.35 MRL owns 254 miles of branch line within the State. Headquartered in Missoula, MRL has approximately 1,000 employees and a fleet of more than 2,100 freight cars and 176 locomotives.36
As shown in Table 3.6, MRL experienced notable increases in both carloads and tonnage between 2005 and 2007. Over the three-year period, total carloads increased by 10.9 percent, while total tonnage increased by 13.5 percent. The increase in coal movements between 2005 and 2007 accounted for a majority of this growth. In addition to coal, the primary commodities transported by MRL in Montana include farm products, petroleum and coal products, and lumber and wood products.
34 Line-level information compiled from MRL Timetable No. 14, dated August 26, 2007;
and the MRL System Condensed Profile and Track Chart, both provided by MRL Staff.
35 Montana Rail Link, Annual Report to the Montana Public Service Commission, 2007.
36 Montana Rail Link Corporate web site: http://www.montanarail.com/.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-37
Table 3.6 Montana Rail Link Operating Statistics 2005-2007
Chemicals and Allied Products 12,658 12,657 16,047 1,636,651 1,631,539 2,057,997
All Other Commodities 53,339 54,256 53,311 6,154,995 6,294,416 6,422,805
Total 300,061 334,091 332,873 38,338,252 43,116,935 43,499,739
Source: 2005-2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
Within Montana, the MRL system is divided into 11 subdivisions, shown in Figure 3.29. Note that MRL subdivisions 8 and 12 no longer exist, and therefore are not included in the railroad’s sequential numbering system. The location and oper-ating characteristics of each subdivision is described in the following sections. Note that maximum rail car weight limits are not available for the MRL subdivisions.
2
3
F
S
N
2010 Montana State
3-38
Figure 3.29 MR
Source: Montana De
Note: Subdivisions
Rail Plan
RL Statewide S
partment of Transporta
s 8 and 12 no longer ex
System Overview
ation.
xist.
w
Cambridge Syystematics, Inc.
Cambridge
Systematics, Inc
Subdi
MRL’Subdiwest shownHuntl(MP 1
The lihas eimiles and 10
Figure
Source:
c.
ivision 1 –
s Subdivisiivisions Q (Bof Laurel (Mn in Figureley (MP 212.11.5), Mossm
ine is doubleither two m of the route0 mph to 35
e 3.30 MRL
Montana Depar
Huntley to
ion 1 is a Big Horn) aMP 13.7). In 3.30, the li.5), East Billi
main (MP 12.
e-tracked anmain tracks oe. Speed lim mph on turn
L Subdivisio
rtment of Transpo
o Billings, B
33.7-mile and R (Forsyn addition tine has seveings (MP 221), and Laur
nd operated or a single m
mits range fronouts, siding
on 1
ortation.
Billings to S
main line yth) and exto the two en stations
23.4), Billingsrel (MP 13.7)
by TWC fromain track wom 10 mph tgs, and othe
2010 M
Spurling
that connextends to Spsubdivision along the r
s (MP 225.8 ).
om East Billiwith CTC oto 45 mph oner tracks.
Montana State Ra
ects with Bpurling (MP termini staroute, inclu and MP 0),
ings to Shiloon the reman the main t
ail Plan
3-39
BNSF 17.8)
ations uding: Shilo
o, and aining tracks
2010 Monta
3-40
ana State Rail P
Subdi
ShownSpurlialong HelenCTC. 35 mpFRA Eexcep
Figure
Source:
37 A tra
trainlimit
lan
ivision 2 –
n in Figure ing (MP 17.7 the line, in
na (MP 234). Speed limit
ph on turnouExcepted Trted track seg
e 3.31 Sub
Montana Depar
ack owner mn speeds to 1ts trains to no
Spurling to
3.31, MRL’s75) with He
ncluding Liv The line hats range fromuts, sidings,ack,37 effectigments are l
division 2
rtment of Transpo
may designate 0 mph, prohi more than fiv
o Helena
s Subdivisiolena (MP 23
vingston (MPas a single mm 1 mph to 4, and other ively limitinlocated in Li
ortation.
a segment oibits passengve hazardous
on 2 is a 220.38.4). ThereP 134.2), Bo
main track th45 mph on thtrack. Subd
ng operationivingston, Bo
of track as FRger trains froms material-car
Camb
.7-mile maine are 25 totalozeman (MPhroughout an
he main tracdivision 2 h
ns to maximuozeman, and
RA excepted tm operating
rrying cars.
bridge Systemati
n line connel stations lo
P 158.2), andnd is operateck and 10 m
has three areum 10 mph.d Helena.
track, which on the track
ics, Inc.
ecting cated
d East ed by
mph to eas of The
limits k, and
Cambridge
Systematics, Inc
Subdi
MRL Helenthe ro(MP 1segmealong and 455 mph
Figure
Source:
c.
ivision 3 –
Subdivisionna (MP 0.0) aoute, includ113.2). The ents near Mi the entire su5 mph. Turnh and 35 mp
e 3.32 MRL
Montana Depar
Helena to M
n 3, shown iand Missoulding Garriso
route is priissoula and ubdivision. nouts, sidingh.
L Subdivisio
rtment of Transpo
Missoula
in Figure 3.3a (MP 119.3)on (MP 50.9imarily singHelena, whi Speed limitgs, and othe
on 3
ortation.
32, is a 119.). There are9), Drummogle main traich use two ts on the maer tracks hav
2010 M
3-mile maine 14 additionond (MP 70acked, with main tracksain track are ve maximum
Montana State Ra
n line connenal stations a0.7), and Bo
the exceptios. CTC is uti between 20
m speeds betw
ail Plan
3-41
ecting along onner on of ilized mph ween
2010 Monta
3-42
ana State Rail P
Subdi
MRL’(MP 1with west aSubdistation(MP 3for a The ento 45 other
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision 4 –
s Subdivisio119.3) and Sa185.2 miles at Paradise ivision A (Kns along t
31.5), and Ko3-mile portintire line is omph on the tracks.
e 3.33 Sub
Montana Depar
Missoula to
on 4 (Figureandpoint Jun in Montan(MP 219.2 a
Kootenai Rivthe route, ootenai (MPion near Misoperated wie main track
division 4
rtment of Transpo
o Paradise,
e 3.33) is a 2nction, Idaha. The suband MP 0.0)er) at Sandpincluding
P 117.8). Thessoula at Deth CTC. Spe
k, and 10 mp
ortation.
Paradise to
218.6-mile mho (MP 118.7bdivision re. The subdpoint JunctioDeSmet (Me line is primeSmet, whiceed limits onph to 30 mp
Camb
o Sandpoin
main line be7). The bordnumbers m
division connon. There a
MP 125.9), Tmarily singl
ch includes tn the line ranph on turno
bridge Systemati
t Junction
etween Misder is at MP
mileposts heanects with Bare 18 additThompson le-tracked etwo main trnge from 20
outs, sidings
ics, Inc.
soula 85.25 ading BNSF tional Falls
xcept racks. 0 mph , and
Cambridge
Systematics, Inc
Subdi
MRL’Spire at Spiand WTWC,10 mp
Figure
Source:
c.
ivision 5 –
s SubdivisioRock (MP 5
ire Rock andWhitehall (38, except for ph and 40 mp
e 3.34 Sub
Montana Depar
Logan to Sp
on 5 is a 50.1). Subdivisd includes s8.8). The lin CTC at Loph. Figure 3
division 5
rtment of Transpo
pire Rock
7-mile bransion 5 interceven total sne is single-ogan. Maxi3.34 illustrat
ortation.
nch line connchanges withstations, incl-tracked thrimum speedtes Subdivisi
2010 M
necting Logh an out-of-sluding Sapproughout ands on the lion 5.
Montana State Ra
an (MP 0.3) service BNSF
pington (MPnd operated line are betw
ail Plan
3-43
with F line
P 19.4) with ween
2010 Monta
3-44
ana State Rail P
Subdi
MRL’HarrismarilyMethoexhibi
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision 6 –
s Subdivisioson (MP 9.7y for storagod of operatits Subdivisi
e 3.35 MRL
Montana Depar
Sappington
on 6 is a 9.7-), the sole sge. Maximtion for the ion 6.
L Subdivisio
rtment of Transpo
n to Harriso
-mile branchtations on th
mum speed line is Bloc
on 6
ortation.
on
h line betwehe line. Thon this sin
ck Register T
Camb
een Sappinghis line currengle-tracked Territory (B
bridge Systemati
gton (MP 0.0ently is used line is 10 RT). Figure
ics, Inc.
) and d pri-mph. e 3.35
Cambridge Systematics, Inc
Subdi
MRL’WhiteBridgetrack is 25 mopera
Figure
Source:
c.
ivision 7 –
s Subdivisioehall (MP 0.0es (MP 26.1)and used prmph, with a tion for this
e 3.36 Sub
Montana Depar
Whitehall t
on 7, shown0) and Alde) to the endrimarily for s 2-mile secti line.
division 7
rtment of Transpo
to Alder
n in Figure er (MP 45.6)
d of the line storage. Maion near Wh
ortation.
3.36, is a 4. The line at Alder – taximum speehitehall at 10
2010 M
45.6-mile mais out of sethis section ed on this si
0 mph. BRT
Montana State Ra
ain line betwervice from
is FRA exceingle-tracked is the meth
ail Plan
3-45
ween Twin epted d line
hod of
2010 Monta
3-46
ana State Rail P
Subdi
MRL’(MP 6(MP 1entirehowevopera
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision 9 –
s Subdivisio64.7) (Figure11.0), Stevene line is singver, speeds tion type uti
e 3.37 Sub
Montana Depar
Missoula to
on 9 is a 64.7 3.37). Thersville (MP 2gle-track. Mare limited ilized on Sub
division 9
rtment of Transpo
o Darby
7-mile branchre are four a29.2), Victor Most of the to 10 mph nbdivision 9.
ortation.
h line from additional sta(MP 35.6), aline has a mnear Hamilt
Camb
Missoula (Mations along
and Hamiltonmaximum ston and Dar
bridge Systemati
MP 0.02) to Dg this line atn (MP 48.0).
speed of 25 rby. TWC i
ics, Inc.
Darby t Lolo . The mph; is the
Cambridge
Systematics, Inc
Subdi
MRL’(MP 0Evaro(MP 5CTC, this lin
Figure
Source:
c.
ivision 10 –
s Subdivisio0.0) and Parao (MP 10.6), 51.5). With
the entire lne range fro
e 3.38 Sub
Montana Depar
– DeSmet to
on 10, Figuradise (MP 6Arlee (MP 2the exceptioine is single
om 25 mph to
division 10
rtment of Transpo
o Paradise
re 3.38, is a4.1). There
21.1), Ravallion of DeSme-tracked opo 45 mph.
ortation.
a 64.1-mile are five adi (MP 30.8),
met and Paraperated by T
2010 M
main line bditional statDixon (MP
adise which TWC. Maxi
Montana State Ra
between Detions on the37.8), and P are operateimum speed
ail Plan
3-47
eSmet e line: Perma ed by ds on
2010 Monta
3-48
ana State Rail P
Subdi
MRL’Polson(MP 1speedsidingFigure
Figure
Source:
lan
ivision 11 –
s Subdivision (MP 29.0)
13.0), Ronan d on the maings, and othe 3.39 exhibi
e 3.39 Sub
Montana Depar
– Dixon to P
on 11 is a 2. There ar (MP 19.9), Pn track is 25
her track. its Subdivisi
division 11
rtment of Transpo
Polson
29.0-mile brare four addPablo (MP 25 mph, with sTWC is th
ion 11.
ortation.
anch line bditional stati5.0), and Duspeeds restr
he method
Camb
between Dixions on the
unham (MP ricted to 10 m
of operatio
bridge Systemati
xon (MP 0.0)e route: C25.7). Maxim
mph on turnon for this
ics, Inc.
) and Charlo
mum nouts, line.
Cambridge
Systematics, Inc
Subdi
MRL’MontaspeedMP 0.
Figure
Source:
c.
ivision 13 –
s Subdivisioana City (M
d, with a 1078. BRT is t
e 3.40 MRL
Montana Depar
– East Hele
on 13 is a 4MP 4.9). The
0 mph maxithe method o
L Subdivisio
rtment of Transpo
na to Mont
4.9-mile bran line is sing
imum at thof operation
on 13
ortation.
tana City
nch line frogle-tracked ahe public crn. Figure 3.40
2010 M
om East Heand has a 25ossing near0 shows Sub
Montana State Ra
elena (MP 0.5 mph maximr East Helenbdivision 13
ail Plan
3-49
.0) to mum na at .
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-50 Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
Subdivision BNSF – Sandpoint Junction to Spokane/Yardley (Operating Rights)
MRL also has operating rights on 63.1 miles of BNSF Railway tracks running from Sandpoint Junction, Idaho (MP 2.0) to Spokane/Yardley, Washington (MP 68.1). This links MRL’s Montana and Idaho network to the BNSF mainline to Seattle.
Mission Mountain Railroad (MMR)
Mission Mountain Railroad (MMR) is a subsidiary of Watco Industries, which owns 3,000 miles, leases 500 miles of track nationally, and operates 17 short-line railroads in 15 U.S. states. The company’s regional headquarters is located in Twin Falls, Idaho.
The MMR short-line in Montana consists of two segments totaling 40.1 track miles (as of 2007), both of which interchange with BNSF (Figure 3.41). The nor-therly segment, owned by MMR, consists of a 24.2-mile line and 3.41 miles of switching track, interchanging at Stryker (MP 1,249.3) and ending at Rexford (MP 1272.8), just northwest of Eureka (MP 1,270). The southerly segment, leased from BNSF, is 15.9 miles with an additional 4.33 miles of switching track. It interchanges at Columbia Falls (MP 1,211.6) and ends in Kalispell (MP 1,226.1). Maximum freight speeds vary between 10 and 25 mph and the track capacity is 143 tons throughout. The method of operation is Occupancy Permission System i.e., “dark territory.”38
In 2007, MMR hauled 164,620 freight car-miles and 9,790 gross ton-miles. As shown in Table 3.7 summarizing MMR’s operating statistics between 2005 and 2007, the primary transported commodities include barley, lumber, and various wood products. Note that the railroad did not report commodity tonnages for 2007.
Source: 2005-2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
a Tons of Revenue Freight.
Yellowstone Valley Railroad (YVR)
Yellowstone Valley Railroad (YVR) is a short-line operated by Watco Industries. YVR operates between Scobey and Glendive in Northeast Montana, and serves several grain elevators along its route. As of 2007, YVR operated 178.56 total miles of track (172.7 miles of Class II leased rail, and 5.86 miles of yard switching track).39 It interchanges with BNSF at Glendive, Snowden, and Bainville. As shown in Figure 3.42, the operation consists of two line segments leased from BNSF plus BNSF trackage rights over the segment between them. The northerly segment runs from just past Scobey (MP 100.3) to the BNSF interchange at Bainville (MP 0.0). It has a maximum track speed of 25 mph. The southerly segment is between just past Snowden (MP 78.7) to Glendive (MP 0.1). There are 8.73 miles in North Dakota with the line crossing the Montana border at MP 64.67 and MP 73.4. It interchanges with BNSF at both ends, and operates at a maximum track speed of 45 mph. Excepting the 12-mile segment of BNSF track-age rights between Snowden and Bainville, YVR operates on an Occupancy Permission System, i.e., “dark territory” (a system that does not require any
39 Yellowstone Valley Railroad, Annual Report to the Montana Public Service Commission,
2007.
Cambridge Systematics, Inc
signalthan o
Figure
Source:
c.
ls to ensure one train). T
e 3.42 Yello
Montana Depar
that on any The line has a
owstone Va
rtment of Transpo
given sectioa 143-ton cap
alley Railroa
ortation.
on of main trpacity throu
ad System
2010 M
rack there isughout.
Montana State Ra
s at no time
ail Plan
3-53
more
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-54 Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
In 2007, total intrastate operating revenues were $353,025. Table 3.8 shows 2006 and 2007 operating statistics. Fertilizer, petroleum, and wheat were the three primary commodities hauled by YVR in 2007. The railroad did not report com-modity tonnage in 2007.
Table 3.8 Yellowstone Valley Railroad Operating Statistics 2006-2007
Carloads Tons Commodity 2006 2007 2006 2007
Wheat 88 107 20,425 N/A
Lentils 4 35 397 N/A
Superphosphate Fertilizer 0 426 0 N/A
Peas 1 21 91 N/A
Petroleum 224 204 15,807 N/A
Beans 10 0 942 N/A
Limestone 278 0 28,132 N/A
Calcium Chloride 4 0 376 N/A
Railroad Ties 0 3 0 N/A
Total 609 796 61,170 N/A
Source: 2006 and 2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
Dakota, Missouri Valley, and Western Railroad (DMVW)
Dakota, Missouri Valley, and Western Railroad (DMVW) is a regional railroad, formerly part of the Soo Line Railroad (SOO) with 364 total track miles in Montana and North Dakota. In Montana, DMVW is comprised of 56.9 miles of road and 2.9 miles of passing crossovers and turnouts for a total of 59.8 operating miles.40 The Montana segment runs between Westby (MP 0.4) and Whitetail (MP 56.8). There is a station at Outlook (MP 36.0). The DMVW system is shown in Figure 3.43. The DMVW line is unsignaled with Block Register Train Control. The maximum operating speed and track weight capacity on the line is unavailable.
40 Dakota, Missouri Valley, and Western Railroad, Annual Report to the Montana Public
Service Commission, 2007.
Cambridge Systematics, Inc
Figure
Source:
DMVWother in Tabthe prtotal r
Table
Commo
Durum
Wheat
Peas
Ballast
Fertilize
Rail and
Empty
Total
Source:
c.
e 3.43 Dako
Montana Depar
W was the r track compoble 3.9 summrimary commrevenue freig
3.9 Dako2005
odity
Wheat
er
d Ties
2005-2007 Ann
ota, Missou
rtment of Transpo
recipient of onents, with
marizing themodity haulght in 2007.
ota, Missour5-2007
C2005
1,779
779
47
8
0
2
0
2,615
nual Reports to the
uri Valley, an
ortation.
LRFA fundh a 30 percen railroad’s 2led on this l
ri Valley, and
Carloads 2006 2
1,457 1
871
90
9
0
0
0
2,427 2
e Montana Public
nd Western
ding in 2000nt match by 2005 to 2007 line, account
d Western R
2007 2
1,807 17
775 7
85
5
4
3
12
2,691 26
Service Commiss
2010 M
Railroad Sy
0 for cross-tiCanadian P operating stting for alm
Railroad Ope
To2005 20
77,900 145
77,900 87
4,700 9
800
0
200
0
61,500 242
sion.
Montana State Ra
ystem
ie, surfacingacific. As shtatistics, wh
most 96 perce
erating Statis
ons 006 200
5,700 185,
7,100 79,
9,000 8,
900
0
0
0
2,700 274,
ail Plan
3-55
g, and hown
heat is ent of
stics
07
217
437
712
512
410
307
360
955
2010 Monta
3-56
ana State Rail P
Butte
Butte,conneSilvershort-Florid
As of miles for a tThe litrack
Figure
Source:
41 Patri
lan
e, Anacond
, Anaconda ects Butte (Mr Bow. The -line and regda. The com
2007, BA&P of passing ctotal of 64.6 ine interchaspeed is 30 m
e 3.44 Butt
Montana Depar
iot Rail Corp.,
da, and Pa
& Pacific RMP 0.0) and short-line rgional freigh
mpany owns a
P operated 2crossovers atotal rail mi
anges with Bmph. BA&P
te, Anacond
rtment of Transpo
, http://www
acific Railw
ailway, formd Anaconda railroad currht railroad hand operate
25.3 miles of and turnoutsiles in the StaBNSF and U
P is unsignal
da, and Paci
ortation.
w.patriotrail.c
way (BA&
merly referr (MP 25.8), rently is owholding com
es 212 total ra
road, 8.6 ms, and 0.5 mate. The sysUP at Silverled and utiliz
fic Rail Sys
com/.
Camb
&P)
ed to as theintersecting
wned by Patrmpany basedail miles nat
miles of othermiles of yard
stem is showr Bow (MP zes track wa
tem
bridge Systemati
e Rarus Railg the UP Linriot Rail Cord in Boca Rtionwide.41
r main track switching t
wn in Figure 7.0). Maximarrant contro
ics, Inc.
lway, ne at rp., a
Raton,
k, 30.1 tracks e 3.44. mum ol.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-57
A summary of 2005-2007 operating statistics are shown in Table 3.10. Copper concentrate and mine tailings are the principal commodities hauled.
Table 3.10 Butte, Anaconda, and Pacific Railway Operating Statistics 2005-2007
Total 14,554 11,455 10,438 1,074,393 854,543 784,020
Source: 2005-2007 Annual Reports to the Montana Public Service Commission.
Tongue River Railroad
Portions of the Tongue River Railroad have been proposed for construction since 1983, and have been subjects of various proceedings at the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) and its predecessor, the Interstate Commerce Commission.
The first segment was 89 miles from Miles City to Ashland, intended to serve proposed coal mines near Ashland, connecting to the BNSF Forsyth Subdivision in Miles City. This first segment was approved in 1985. In 1991, Tongue River Railroad sought STB approval for construction and operation of an extension of the rail line from Ashland 41 miles south to Decker, and permission was granted in 1996. In 1997, the Tongue River Railroad sought another alignment at the far south end as an alternative to the alignment approved in 1996. The environ-mental review for this request was suspended in 2000 at the request of the rail-road, but begun again in 2003 and was granted in 2007. While legal challenges remain, the process of coal resource development, a necessary precedent to financing the railroad, has begun.
2010 Monta
3-58
ana State Rail P
In Mation oState. railroa
Figure
Source:
Glob
GlobaRail) includtrainsshort-at aboinclud(MP 2line’s to 15 m
lan
ay 2008, the of appraisal No definitiad. The pro
e 3.45 Tong
Montana Depar
bal Rail (Fo
al Rail Groufinished con
des a 6-mile . Global Ra-line operatoout Broadviede Hay Bas29.3). The tr initial haulamillion tons
Montana B and leasingive timeframposed Tong
gue River R
rtment of Transpo
ormerly R
up, a divisionstruction in loop at its
ail Group plaor. The lineew (MP 38.5sin (MP 12.2ack will servage capacity as necessary
oard of Lang review for
me has been gue River lin
Railroad (Pro
ortation.
Referred to
on of Signaln 2009 of aeastern termans to opera connects to5). Other to2), Berten Mve the opera
y is 10 millioy. The Glob
nd Commissr Otter Creeset for conste is shown i
oposed)
o as Bull M
l Peak Energa 36 miles sminus to accate the railroo the BNSF Lowns/pointsMine (MP 1ations at the on gross tonsbal Rail Spur
gy (formerlysingle-track commodate oad itself ratLaurel Subds of referenc19.7), and S Signal Peaks annually, a
r is shown in
bridge Systemati
horized the its owned by
d operation o45.
Rail)
y Bull Mourail spur, wtwo 150-car
ther than usdivision Maice along theSignal Mouk Coal Mine.and will inc
n Figure 3.46
ics, Inc.
initia-y the of the
untain which r unit sing a inline e line
untain . The crease 6.
Cambridge
3.
Systematics, Inc
Figure
.3 RAIRailroChangreducabandmaintif cargbelow
All abthe ecresolv(merglated line swheth
42 49 CF
unde
c.
e 3.46 Glob
IL LINESoad abandonging economtion in com
donment if tenance costgo density (
w a minimum
bandonmentconomic regving railroadgers, line sal
abandonmesegment subher the line s
FR Part 1152, er 49 U.S.C. 10
bal Rail Spu
S AT RISnment effectmic conditio
mmodity valrevenues d
s. For exam(measured am threshold f
ts must be apgulatory aged rate and es, line cons
ent procedurbmit a noticsegment serv
Abandonmen0903, pages 2
ur
SK FOR Aively elimin
ons, such aslue or variedo not sup
mple, carriersas carloads pfor specified
pproved by ency affiliatservice issu
struction, anres require ce of intentves a presen
nt and Discont00-253.
ABANDOnates a line s the relocat
ety, may entpport a lines may choosper mile on d period of ti
the Surface ted with theues and raind line abanthat carriers
t to the STBnt or future p
tinuance of Ra
2010 M
ONMENTsegment fromtion of a matice a rail ce segment’sse to abando a given tracime.
Transportate U.S. DOTil restructur
ndonments).s wishing toB who, in tpublic need
ail Lines and R
Montana State Ra
T m a rail netwajor shippercarrier to pus operatingon a line segck segment)
tion Board (T responsiblring transac Federally ro abandon aturn, determ.42 Over the
Rail Transpor
ail Plan
3-59
work. r or a ursue
g and gment ) falls
(STB), le for ctions regu-a rail
mines e past
rtation
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-60 Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
several years, the Congress and the STB have streamlined abandonment proce-dures, shortening the time that stakeholders have to react to an abandonment request. For example, a revision to the Federal abandonment requirements in 1997 allows a rail line that has not carried any traffic during the last two years to receive an exemption which shortens the abandonment proceedings from a minimum period of 110 days to 60 days.43 Given the short timeframe during which an agency can protest abandonment, it is important for states to monitor rail activity, identify at-risk rail lines, anticipate potential abandonments, and develop appropriate action plans to protect public interest.
Previous updates of the Montana State Rail Plan (1993 and 2000) and the Montana Branch Line Study (2004) identified several at-risk rail lines across the State, in keeping with the Department’s obligation under Section 60-11-111(3) MCA to “identify railroad rights-of-way in this State that may be abandoned and research the feasibility of acquisition by the State of Montana of those rights-of-way that may be abandoned.” This section summarizes the findings from the previous studies and updates the current status of rail abandonment activity in Montana.
At-Risk and Out-of-Service Lines in Montana
The 2000 Montana State Rail Plan Update identified four out-of-service (i.e., not formally abandoned but not currently in use) rail lines in Montana:
BNSF – Spire Rock-Butte (21.0 miles);
MRL – Drummond-Philipsburg (26.0 miles);
MRL – Twin Bridges-Alder (19.5 miles); and
MRL – Sappington-Whitehall (19.1 miles).
In 2004, R.L. Banks and Associates completed a two-phase Branch Line Study that assessed current rail abandonment issues in Montana. Phase I of the study focused on two specific at-risk lines for which BNSF Railway had announced plans to petition the STB for authority to abandon: the Plentywood-Scobey line (43.63 route miles) and the Glendive-Circle line (43.41 route miles). Both lines mainly served outbound wheat shipments, but were in a general state of dis-repair with train speeds limited to 10 miles per hour and lightweight track that could not accommodate the 286,000-pound rail cars that are the current industry standard. This made it increasingly difficult to interline with the mainline tracks that connected the wheat producers with their markets.44
43 49 CFR Part 1152, Subpart F Abandonment Exempt Abandonments and Discontinuances
of Service and Trackage Rights, pages 250-252.
44 Montana Department of Transportation, Montana Department of Agriculture, and Montana Department of Commerce, Montana Branch Line Study Phase I: Plentywood-Scobey and Glendive-Circle, R.L. Banks and Associates, June 23, 2004.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-61
The study evaluated the impacts those abandonments would have on the ship-pers, communities, and highways that would be affected and developed options for state and local governments to preserve rail service on the two lines. The study concluded that if the State wished to retain service on the lines, it would have to secure BNSF’s cooperation and offer financial assistance to offset opera-tion and maintenance costs. The study also suggested that Montana consider assisting small railroads in the State that offer a public benefit, following similar programs in other states.
Phase II of the Branch Line Study identified several more at-risk lines. Although these lines were not yet the subject of formal abandonment procedures, they were identified as having low-traffic density as measured by carloads per mile, which is one way to measure the viability of a rail line. Beginning with 23 at-risk lines (plus one other that includes the Plentywood-Scobey line), the study identi-fied the top 10 lines most at risk for abandonment:
9. BNSF – Bainville-Plentywood (54.4 route miles); and
10. BNSF – Great Falls-Fort Benton (44.8 route miles).
The Phase II report stated that in order to preserve service on these lines, the State should consider providing incentives for shippers to use the lines, direct subsidies, and reduction or elimination of state property taxes on the rail right-of-way.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan Update Information
Information on some of the at-risk lines mentioned in the 2004 Branch Line Studies:
BNSF/Glendive-Circle Line – The abandonment of this line, first mentioned in the 2004 Phase I report, remains on hold.
BNSF/Moore-Lewistown Line – This line was abandoned by decision of the Surface Transportation Board on December 14, 2005, effective January 13, 2006. The STB decided on January 11, 2006 to reopen the proceeding, and since the line from milepost 13.88 to 28.35 has been rail banked by agreement between BNSF and the City of Lewistown in December 2006. The line from
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
3-62 Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
milepost 9.5 to 13.68 has been modified to be discontinued, not abandoned.45 The Lewistown trail also has been awarded the 2008 Trail of the Year award by the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.46
BNSF/Great Falls – The abandonment on this 1.67-mile segment is in process,47 subject to regulatory review by state environmental and historical agencies.
MRL/Drummond-Philipsburg Line – This segment connecting to the MRL Subdivision 3 (Helena to Missoula) remains out of service with no plans for reopening, but not abandoned.
MRL/Twin Bridges-Alder – This segment on the Whitehall MRL Subdivision 7 is described in the MRL section above, and is out of service and primarily used for storage. It has not been abandoned.
MRL/Whitehall-Spire Rock – This segment of the Logan MRL Subdivision 5 is not used for revenue service, but had been used in the past 10 years for ballast shipments (nonrevenue) for use by BNSF and MRL. It has not been abandoned.
Yellowstone Valley Railroad – In 2005, subsequent to the completion of the branch line studies in 2004 which listed this line as prime candidate for aban-donment, the Yellowstone Valley Railroad (owned by Watco Companies) acquired the line from Plentywood to Scobey that had been a candidate for abandonment for six years. There have been no changes in its status as an operating railroad in the past three years. The OOS portion from Plentywood to Redstone is primarily used for car storage, as is Fairview sta-tion on OOS Wye.
Alternatives to Abandonment
MDT, by conducting the 2004 Branch Line Studies, is meeting its responsibilities under state law to research lines that might possibly be abandoned. However, the 2004 Branch Line studies raised some issues that could be the subject of future research by MDT or discussion by the Montana Legislature:
Role of the State in Line Acquisition – Section 60-11-111 MCA seems to envi-sion a limited role for MDT in the line acquisition process. MDT is autho-rized to acquire rail lines to be abandoned, subject to future steps to hold the lines in trust for future transportation purposes by another state agency or transfer the line to another local authority. This legislation, nor the legisla-tion creating the Montana Rail Freight Loan (MRFL) program (described in
45 All decisions are part of the STB Docket AB-6 (Sub-No. 434X).
46 News release at http://www.fwp.mt.gov/news/article_6854.aspx.
47 Abandonment filed in STB Docket AB-6 (Sub-No. 445X), dated October 6, 2006.
2010 Montana State Rail Plan
Cambridge Systematics, Inc. 3-63
Section 6.0 of this report), does not anticipate public funding to offset likely annual operating subsidies that these saved-from-abandonment lines may need if operated by a local authority and short-line operator (such subsidies were described in the 2004 Phase II report). If the lines turned over to other operators are to remain in operation, they may require public assistance. The State could consider the circumstances, if any, under which the State might provide operating assistance to keep rail lines from being abandoned.
Support for Low Traffic Lines Still in Service – Current state law provides authority for taking action in the face of abandonment, and provides a loan program for railroad development (the MRFL program). Financial assistance that depends on repayment may be unrealistic for low-volume lines having difficulty providing sufficient operating revenues. Perhaps the Rail Service Competition Council could consider the costs and benefits of possible public funding assistance that could target low-volume lines. This financial assis-tance could take various forms:
– Funds to railroads for grade crossing maintenance, including roadbed maintenance;
– Funds to railroads to help them make property tax payments to local gov-ernments, or payments directly to the local governments;
– Funding incentives directly to shippers for tons diverted from truck to rail on low-volume lines; and
– State property or income tax incentives for new rail shippers on low-volume lines and/or incentives to retain existing rail shippers.
These different kinds of financial assistance would not necessarily place the State in a role as a railroad owner or operator, but could be considered as means of retaining the State’s existing rail system and encouraging its use by rail shippers. Consideration of the kinds of financial assistance that would best support the rail system may be an effective precursor to any possible legislative consideration of any new public funding for rail line acquisition, operating support of transferred at-risk lines, and support for low-volume lines.