BNSF Announces $3.6 Billion Capital Investment Plan for 2026

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BNSF Railway (BNSF), one of North America’s leading freight transportation providers, announced its $3.6 billion capital investment plan for 2026. The Class I railroad’s capital investments demonstrate a continued dedication to operating a safe and reliable network that’s prepared to handle the anticipated needs of customers.

“Our 2026 capital plan focuses on strengthening and modernizing our network so we can continue to meet our customers’ evolving needs,” said BNSF President and CEO Katie Farmer. “We prioritize investing with the future in mind, improving efficiency, adding capacity, and ensuring our railroad is always ready to support growth while delivering the dependable, resilient service our customers count on.”

The largest component of this year’s capital plan, $2.8 billion, is devoted to maintenance, which ensures BNSF’s network remains in top condition. Investing in BNSF’s existing infrastructure results in fewer unscheduled service outages that can slow down the rail network and reduce capacity.

The maintenance projects will include replacing and upgrading rail, track infrastructure like ballast and rail ties, and maintaining rolling stock. It will consist of approximately 13,000 miles of track surfacing and/or undercutting work, the replacement of 2.5 million rail ties and more than 400 miles of rail.

In 2026, $358 million of the capital plan is designated for expansion and efficiency projects, adding to the $2.6 billion invested in expansion projects over the past five years. This year’s expansion plans support BNSF customer growth by continuing to invest in facility and line projects that will increase network capacity and efficiency. Major facility projects include completing property acquisitions and continuing development activities for the planned Barstow International Gateway project in California and continuing development and starting construction activities for a future intermodal facility in the Phoenix area. Major line expansion projects include track expansions at our Galesburg, IL and Winslow, AZ yards to increase switching capacity, supporting network service performance and asset (railcars and locomotives) productivity initiatives.

About BNSF

BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies. BNSF operates more than 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states and also operates in three Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain and agricultural products, low-sulfur coal, and industrial goods such as petroleum, chemicals, housing materials, food and beverages. BNSF’s shipments help feed, clothe, supply, and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced, and efficient railroads in the industry. We work continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve. You can learn more about BNSF at www.BNSF.com.