BNSF Shortline Select: NLR & CBRW Collaboration for Rail Growth

BNSF Railway expands its Shortline Select™ program, integrating short lines like NLR and CBRW, fostering **rail** collaboration and boosting **freight** capacity.

BNSF Shortline Select: NLR & CBRW Collaboration for Rail Growth
November 9, 2025 5:54 pm
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Introduction

BNSF Railway has added Northern Lines Railway (NLR) and Columbia Basin Railroad (CBRW) to its Shortline Select™ program, which was announced in the fall of 2024. The program aims to integrate the services of short lines with BNSF’s extensive 32,500-mile freight-rail network, spanning 28 states and three Canadian provinces.

Program Overview

The Shortline Select™ program was initiated by BNSF to enhance carload volume by fostering closer relationships with smaller railroads that offer first- and last-mile services to customers. The program emphasizes collaboration between BNSF and participating short lines to support customer success through collaborative growth.

Collaboration and Support

As part of the program, short lines like NLR and CBRW will collaborate with BNSF on economic development and growth initiatives. These initiatives are supported through BNSF’s Premier Transload program, which includes a network of over 400 transloaders within the BNSF system.

Access to Resources

Participants in the Shortline Select™ program also gain access to the BNSF Certified Sites program. This program identifies rail-ready industrial sites that are pre-approved for development, streamlining the process for potential customers.

Executive Statement

“Both NLR and CBRW exemplify BNSF’s dedication to dependable, integrated service and share our focus on supporting customer success through collaborative growth,” said BNSF General Director of Marketing Mark Ganaway.

Conclusion

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The Shortline Select™ program, launched by BNSF, now includes Northern Lines Railway and Columbia Basin Railroad. The program integrates short line services with BNSF’s network and offers collaboration opportunities and access to resources like the Premier Transload and Certified Sites programs.

Company Summary

BNSF Railway: Operates a 32,500-mile freight-rail network across 28 states and three Canadian provinces. They initiated the Shortline Select™ program to enhance carload volume through collaboration with short lines.

Northern Lines Railway (NLR): A short line railroad now participating in BNSF’s Shortline Select™ program.

Columbia Basin Railroad (CBRW): A short line railroad that is also participating in BNSF’s Shortline Select™ program.