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BNSF Railway has unveiled a $3.6 billion capital investment plan for 2026, reinforcing its commitment to operating a safe, reliable, and future-ready rail network.
“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. She emphasized that the investments are aimed at improving efficiency, expanding capacity, and ensuring the railroad is well positioned to support long-term growth while delivering consistent, resilient service.
The largest share of the 2026 investment—$2.8 billion—will be directed toward maintenance of the existing network. These efforts are designed to keep infrastructure in top condition, reduce unscheduled service disruptions, and preserve system capacity. Maintenance work will include rail and track upgrades, ballast and rail tie replacement, and rolling stock upkeep. Planned projects include surfacing or undercutting approximately 13,000 miles of track, replacing 2.5 million rail ties, and installing more than 400 miles of new rail.
An additional $358 million will be invested in expansion and efficiency projects, building on the $2.6 billion BNSF has invested in network expansion over the past five years. Key initiatives include continued development of the Barstow International Gateway project in California and the start of construction activities for a future intermodal facility in the Phoenix area. Line expansion projects at the Galesburg, Illinois, and Winslow, Arizona, yards will also enhance switching capacity, supporting improved service performance and asset productivity across the network.
© 2026 David Mazor
Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.