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Personally i like BNSF the best and i know that UP and BNSF are both big companies but how much bigger is UP and do you think BNSF will ever get bigger someday? I just wonder.
rresor Member # 128
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According to the AAR (this is 1997 data, so it may be a little off), BNSF has the following statistics:
Miles of road owned: 35,208 Gross ton miles: 411 billion Employees: 43,731
Compare to UP:
Miles of road owned: 36,670 Gross ton miles: 442 billion Employees: 53,647
I have more current figures somewhere; I think UP has gotten rid of a bunch of people and BNSF has closed the tonmile gap somewhat. The two railroads are actually quite close in size, as are NS and CSXT.
SteveD Member # 43
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Both same: 4' 8-1/2"
MPALMER Member # 125
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And BNSF is 2 characters longer than UP. Seriously, I don't know if BNSF will expand unless they pick up Kansas City Southern or some other regional lines. Most of the acquiring has been done. If anything, the majors will spin off more lines. If UP aggressively sells off more lines (ex-C&NW in the farm states) it could shrink below BNSF's size.
Kruzn40 Member # 688
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DrunkEngineer!! Is that supposed to be cute?
DrunkEngineer Member # 245
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What exactly do you mean? Its just a name, its just a joke im not serious or anything about a DrunkEngineer. Do you have a problem with my name or something?
Pete Member # 591
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Also in the works but currently on hold for the last year per FRA or STB, can't remember whcih, is the proposed merger of BNSF with CNR. Vehemently opposed by the other roads . Should all proceed anyways it could be likely that the UP and CPR also merge thereby ensuring two competitors each offering seamless one-road coast to coast service plus Mexico to Canda. Something no US road has ever been able to do and a great fear of legislators on both sides of the border should only one road be allowed to offer/monopolize the situation. Hang on to your hats.
MPALMER Member # 125
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Maybe the new administration would be more favorable to a mega-merger. Then again, it depends on what the energy firms think...would they be supportive or opposed to a merger. My guess is the energy companies are captive shippers and would oppose the merger (even though the senior mgmt of the rails is mostly Republican).
LightRail Member # 633
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Why would somebody put Drunk and Engineer together even as a joke. If he doesn't have a problem with your name, I do. My problem I guess since you obviously see no harm in the name. Do you joke about bombs at the airport?
JDRumley Member # 625
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Obviously this individual is not only unfamiliar with Rule G, but has no respect for the responsibility required by train service personel.
DrunkEngineer Member # 245
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Hmm, i guess your right, i know its just a name but i think its not really a good idea, a Friend of mine actually had the idea for this. Admins should be able to change my name. Il email or post to the admin for a name change. I am a Railfan and Model railroader just like many of you. And no i dont joke about bombs at airports.
LightRail Member # 633
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Thanks for taking the criticism in the spirit it was meant. That takes some huevos. Any substance abuse in train service is unacceptable and illegal. You did good!
johnnychooch Member # 187
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Hey, Lightrail, Did you ever get anywhere with your query on the subject of the glass balls you found while wayside in the CA desert? Drop me a line. John
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LightRail Member # 633
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You breaking mine or what? I got a couple of answers elsewhere in the Western Forum. Looks like they are used in making other glass products or possibly insulation. Guess I'll have to wait trackside until one falls off a train and then I can chase it to the consignee. Inquiring minds need to know.
Pete Member # 591
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I can vouch that those glass balls, or marbles are used in the manufacture of Fiberglas insulation, at least they were 25 years ago when I worked and itched there.
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