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Last month, TTX Co. and its 10 owner railroads filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board to extend TTX's flat-car pooling authority for 15 years.

In 1974, STB predecessor the Interstate Commerce Commission originally granted the authority, which was extended in 1989 and 1994. TTX's pooling authority expires on Oct. 1, 2004.

The board will approve the application if it determines the authority enables TTX to provide better service to the public and economize its operation, and does not unreasonably restrain competition, according to the filing.

STB is accepting comments on the application until March 22; applicants’ rebuttals then will be due April 21. The board expects to issue a decision by Sept. 1.

TTX is owned by Burlington Northern Santa Fe, CSX Transportation, Florida East Coast Railway, Guilford Rail System, Grand Trunk Western Railroad Co., Illinois Central Railroad Co., Kansas City Southern, Norfolk Southern Railway, Soo Line Railroad Co. and Union Pacific Railroad.