Freight Railroads 2018
Economic Impact & A High-Tech Future


The Winona area relies on a strong freight rail network to safely and affordably transport commodities around the region as part of a system that moves 3.6 million carloads over 4,500 miles of track in Minnesota. Minnesota’s workers, families, businesses and governments benefit from the state’s rail network, which plays a significant role in our economic success. Freight rail is responsible for $40 billion of state Gross Domestic Product and for adding more than $5,000 in annual income to the average Minnesota household.

Freight railroads are making significant investments in a high-tech future. In just the past few years, railroads have investment more than $1 billion in technology, infrastructure and safety improvements just in the state of Minnesota. Railroads are also utilizing new tools, including the AskRail app available to first responders, and additional training to keep our communities safe. 

At Freight Railroads 2018, you’ll have the opportunity to talk with representatives from CP, BNSF Railway and the Minnesota Regional Railroads Association and learn about the investments railroads are making in Minnesota, first responder training, and technology that is being deployed to improve safety and reliability, including Positive Train Control.