More than 500 short line and regional railroads are an essential part of America s national rail network. Competition was a fundamental premise of the Staggers Act. When the industry reaches the point that most shippers have only one choice of railroad, that premise becomes questionable.
Small railroads can help enhance rail competition in America.
If small railroads can move certain traffic more efficiently than the Class Is, the system should allow it. If small railroads can ease congestion on overcrowded Class I main lines, the system should allow it. If small railroads can take truck traffic off the highways, the system should allow it. More often than not today, the system does not allow it. I partners can be resolved through private negotiations.