STB schedules hearing to delve into rail-service issues

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has scheduled a public hearing on April 10 in Washington, D.C., to provide interested parties the opportunity to cite recent rail service issues, review proposed solutions to existing rail-performance problems and discuss additional options to improve service.

The board has been closely monitoring the rail industry's performance metrics and is concerned about service problems across the nation's rail network, particularly Canadian Pacific's and BNSF Railway Co.'s systems, STB members said in a press release. Board members have written letters to and met with BNSF and CP leaders to discuss the service issues, they said.

The STB's Office of Public Assistance, Governmental Affairs and Compliance has been working with affected parties to better understand the problems shippers are facing and to help facilitate service solutions. Board staff recently held a meeting in North Dakota with shippers from multiple states and additional meetings likely will be held in other affected areas, STB members said.

The board will direct BNSF and CP officials to appear at the hearing. Representatives from other Class Is and impacted shippers are encouraged to appear, as well, STB members said.