Four Corners Freight

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Connections and Efficiency

The new connection to the BNSF freight rail network will improve the efficiency of the overall freight transportation system in the Four Corners region. It will also expand economic opportunities for the region, including the Navajo Nation.

Economic Opportunities

By adding this connection to the existing BNSF freight network, the area will become an attractive resource for businesses considering locating to or expanding in the Four Corners Region. It would help make the region more competitive by decreasing shipping costs.

Additional economic development in the region provides additional learning opportunities and career pathways for local children, allowing them to stay in the region and raise their families close to home. Creating more businesses within the regional will also bring in additional tax revenues, which will directly benefit the local school systems.

Adding freight rail service will help to reduce the amount of commercial truck traffic on surrounding roadways, which will increase roadway safety and decrease the potential for crashes. The reduction in heavy truck traffic will also improve the state of good repair on roadways, reducing the need for maintenance.

Proposed Connection Network

What is a Feasibility Study?

During the feasibility study, the project team will identify and evaluate potential route alignments, transloading facilities and rights-of-way. Environmental impacts will be studied, as well the integration of railroad project development. In addition, public involvement will play a crucial role in the project development, as will coordination with local agencies.

The study will also produce an Economic Feasibility Analysis that will examine the freight traffic demand and other factors relevant to the feasibility of the proposed new rail line.

What are the benefits of a Feasibility Study?

During the feasibility study, the project team will identify and evaluate potential route alignments, transloading facilities and rights-of-way. Environmental impacts will be studied, as well the integration of railroad project development.

Study Timeline

Alternatives Analysis

  • October 2023 - Route Options
  • December 2023 - Investment Options
  • January 2024 - Design Options

Project Development

  • January 2024 - Operational Requirements
  • Spring 2024 - Early Preliminary Engineering
  • Late Spring 2024 - Construction cost estimation
  • Summer 2024 - Operations and Maintenance estimate

Environmental Analysis

  • Summer 2024 - Publish Analysis

Economic Feasibility Analysis

  • Fall 2024 - Publish Analysis