Western Railroad Discussion > BNSF Cicero Intermodal Expansion Project

I didn't find anything here on TrainOrders about this, so I hope I'm not duplicating a previous post.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bnsf-railway_logistics-freight-intermodal-activity-7261867250129715200-db3o?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

I would assume that any intermodal expansion can only come at the expense of something else (or reducing wasted space), as the size of Cicero is constrained to it's existing size. So are they shifting carload capacity elsewhere, and perhaps reducing locomotive maintenance? It's also interesting that they are increasing intermodal capacity in the city center at the ramp that has traditionally served the PNW (vs SoCal) and places like Denver, Omaha, and Minneapolis.

Text from BNSF's post follows below:

We reached a milestone phase this month for our Cicero, Illinois Intermodal Expansion Project!

During phase two of our multi-year expansion, we completed:

• A new production track adding 4,530 feet of capacity
• 43,000 feet of reconstructed receiving yard track for an optimized layout
• A new trailer parking lot adding 470+ parking stalls
• A new hostler repair shop
• A new 100-foot diameter turntable, and more 

This is all being done while achieving major sustainability efforts as part of the overall project. Our teams significantly reduced excavation for this project by optimizing site grading, recycling existing pavement, and testing and repurposing excess soil on an adjacent BNSF site, reducing our greenhouse gas emissions by 5,971 metric tons. Additionally, through collaboration with the local municipality, our team designed and constructed a stormwater detention system that greatly enhances the local community by effectively controlling stormwater runoff.

BNSF partnered with Railroading Heritage of Midwest America to donate the existing 135-foot turntable for restoration and re-use at their facility in Silvis, Illinois. BNSF also donated an existing 15-ton crane from the Cicero Diesel Repair Shop to the Illinois Railway Museum, which will be used to service the museum’s 58 historic diesel locomotives.

Once complete, (estimated 2026), the new facility will increase our production capacity to support current demand and future growth.



Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 11/14/24 10:33 by Bandito.

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