MPC Research Reports
Report Details

Abstract

The study demonstrated that short lines could achieve greater cost savings if they were to increase their density (revenue ton miles per mile) and their size (mile of road). Size is an important criterion that a short line must examine when evaluating the purchase of a new section of track. However, existing railroads may have difficulty increasing their size because of their connections to Class I railroads and limited financial resources. Density is critical to the short line operations, and by increasing their density on the rail, track short lines could decrease their average cost. The cost analysis in the study demonstrates a need of longer hauls and/or larger train configurations for them to remain viable.