Industrial Products Network Update for Wednesday, July 3, 2024
With observance of the Independence Day holiday, this Network Update is being delivered two days earlier than scheduled.
OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE
Service performance is improving as train flows on the network continue to normalize following last week's record flooding in the Midwest. Thanks to the dedication of BNSF team members and contractors, the Marshall Subdivision, which runs across Iowa to/from the Twin Cities, was reopened this past Saturday and all impacted customers are now receiving service. Average car velocity has improved slightly and remains relatively steady with May. Terminal dwell is elevated from the previous week but improved from the last month. Our local service compliance measure has improved slightly and is above 90%. With this positive momentum, we remain focused on generating additional improvement in the coming weeks.
INDEPENDENCE DAY OPERATING PLAN
Train service will not be curtailed due to the holiday; however, BNSF plans to minimize the number of yard, local and road-switch assignments at terminals on Thursday, July 4, consistent with customer activity and volume demand. Connecting carriers who have reduced operations for the holiday may cause delays on interline traffic. Customer Support will maintain a limited staff on Independence Day. Regular coverage will resume on Friday, July 5.
SERVICE EXPECTATIONS FOR THE WEEK AHEAD
Storm systems moving through the Midwest today will bring heavy rain, high winds and flash flooding before tapering off early Friday morning. Following the severe weather we experienced last week, increased track inspections are already taking place in the area, and BNSF teams are taking steps to protect the network in the event of a flood.
Excessive heat, with temperatures ranging from 105 to 115 degrees, will continue to impact much of the West, from California to parts of Texas, through the Independence Day holiday. BNSF is prepared to respond to any heat-related disruptions. We will continue to monitor the potential impact of Hurricane Beryl, which could make landfall along the Texas portion of the Gulf Coast early next week.
In other areas of our network, seasonable weather for early July is expected.
We thank you for your business and appreciate the opportunity to serve as your transportation service provider. We welcome your feedback and questions.