A number of capacity-enhancing projects are recently completed, or in progress and soon to be completed, on Kansas City Southern - Mexico to handle a projected increase in traffic volumes.

In addition to the design of three sidings for the Lazaro Cardenas corridor, multiple projects are increasing capacity in the corridors between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey and between Monterrey and Saltillo.

Nuevo Laredo to Monterrey
In December 2005, KCSM placed into service 5.1 kilometers of second main track between Sanchez Yard and the connection to the BJ line south of Nuevo Laredo. The project increases capacity and allows for expedited movements to and from the International Bridge.

In January 2006, KCSM placed into service a 50-car load out track for a new ballast quarry at Cerro Colorado, which is approximately 150 kilometers south of the U.S. border on the KCSM main line. Cerro Colorado is ideally situated to supply KCSM and KCSR with quality granite for ballast for years to come. Commercial opportunities are being explored.

In March, KCSM will begin to connect Leal and Columbia sidings north of Monterrey to create 15 kilometers of double main track to facilitate crew changes at Leal and increase capacity in the busy corridor.

Monterrey to Saltillo
Three capacity projects are facilitating train meets and overall train velocity in the mountains between Monterrey and Saltillo. In February, KCSM completed the extension of the Santa Maria siding to 2,700 meters. Slated for completion in March, KCSM is creating 5.7 kilometers of second main track by connecting Higueras and Ojo Caliente sidings. Later this year, KCSM will extend Rinconada siding to 2,700 meters.