CN expands locations in certified sites program

CN yesterday announced the addition of five new industrial development sites to its Certified Rail-Ready Sites program. 

In addition, the railroad is re-certifying six existing U.S sites across its network. The total of 11 sites will be certified through the Class I’s new partnership with the Site Selectors Guild’s REDI Sites program, an industry-recognized certification framework designed to bring greater consistency and credibility to industrial site readiness, CN officials said in a press release. 

Ranging from 55 acres to 1,400 acres, the five new sites are located in Illinois, Michigan, Louisiana and Mississippi. Ranging from 46 acres to 420 acres, the six re-certified sites are located in Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi and Tennessee. 

The Certified Rail-Ready Sites program identifies and pre-qualifies industrial locations with direct access to CN’s network. Sites are evaluated based on such criteria as zoning, environmental factors, available utilities and transportation infrastructure. The certified sites are supported by CN’s broader network of transload and distribution facilities. 

The program helps businesses more quickly identify strategic, rail-served locations that are ready for investment and connected to markets across North America, said Janet Drysdale, CN’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer.