BNSF Railway recently announced plans to develop a new regional rail service facility covering approximately 4,321 acres in northwestern Maricopa County near Phoenix, Arizona. The project aims to establish an integrated logistics center to meet the freight transportation, storage and distribution needs of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the Greater Southwest.

The new facility will be divided into three core areas: a 1,770-acre intermodal facility that serves as a container and trailer transfer hub for rail transportation; a 1,420-acre logistics park for the construction of advanced warehouses and distribution facilities; and a 1,131-acre logistics center that provides direct rail access to support local industries.

This project is designed to respond efficiently and sustainably to the changing needs of BNSF's customer base and provide streamlined supply chain solutions. By integrating with the existing rail network, the facility will optimize supply chain operations and achieve efficient rail transportation of goods and materials while reducing environmental impact and supporting regional growth.

Jon Gabriel, vice president of service design at BNSF, said that as it and its customers adapt to changing market demands, supply chains and technological advances, the Phoenix metropolitan area needs to increase rail capacity, and Arizona is a key area for the company to expand and advance the capacity of its intermodal network.

The facility is expected to shorten truck transportation distances, reduce air emissions, reduce highway and road maintenance costs, and improve road safety. BNSF will work closely with Maricopa County, neighboring municipalities and regional stakeholders in the coming months to ensure the smooth implementation of the project.Editor/Cheng Ting