BNSF’s “Tracking to Zero”: DOT Safety & Rail Excellence

BNSF Railway Honors State DOTs for Grade Crossing Safety Excellence

In a significant stride towards enhancing rail safety, BNSF Railway Company yesterday unveiled the recipients of its 2025 “Tracking to Zero” award. This prestigious accolade recognizes five state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) for their collaborative efforts and exceptional performance in mitigating grade crossing incidents. The announcement, made public on [Date of Announcement – to be determined based on the publication], highlights the dedication of these state agencies, underscoring their commitment to a safer operational environment across BNSF’s expansive network. The award ceremony took place at [Location of Ceremony – to be determined if applicable] The primary objective of the “Tracking to Zero” initiative is to reduce the number of accidents at railway crossings, ultimately contributing to improved safety for both the public and railway personnel. This article delves into the specifics of this year’s awards, examining the strategies employed by the honorees and considering the broader implications for the railway industry.

Honoring Exemplary Performance

The “Tracking to Zero” award program, now in its second year, acknowledges DOTs that demonstrate a superior safety record within their jurisdictions. This year’s recipients include the DOTs of Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, all of which have maintained an outstanding safety record. This is the second consecutive year these states have been honored, reflecting a consistent commitment to safety improvement. The DOTs of Wisconsin and Illinois were also recognized, highlighting their successful efforts in reducing crossing incidents. These state DOTs achieved a remarkable feat, averaging fewer than one grade crossing incident per 1 million BNSF train miles traveled. This data, verified through 2024 reports submitted to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), underscores the effectiveness of their safety initiatives.

Driving Safety Through Collaboration

BNSF’s commitment to grade crossing safety extends beyond its internal operations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with state and local authorities. The “Tracking to Zero” award program fosters a cooperative environment, encouraging DOTs to adopt proactive measures. These measures include infrastructure improvements, such as the installation of advanced warning systems and the strategic realignment of roadways, and safety education programs targeting the public. This collaborative approach ensures that all stakeholders are aligned in their efforts to mitigate risks and promote safer communities. The DOTs’ success is a direct result of this synergy, emphasizing that safety is a shared responsibility that extends across the entire rail ecosystem.

Impact and Methodology

The criteria for the “Tracking to Zero” award are rigorous, reflecting BNSF’s dedication to safety. Award eligibility is based on the number of grade crossing incidents that occur within each state, as determined by the FRA. The FRA compiles this data from various sources, including railroad accident reports and state-level transportation records. This detailed data is analyzed by BNSF’s safety experts to pinpoint areas for improvement and to recognize states with exceptional performance. The evaluation process involves a thorough review of safety initiatives, infrastructure investments, and educational programs implemented by each DOT. By setting high standards and providing clear benchmarks, BNSF motivates DOTs to continuously enhance their safety performance.

Future Outlook and Industry Implications

The “Tracking to Zero” award initiative holds profound implications for the future of rail safety. By recognizing and rewarding exemplary performance, BNSF encourages a culture of proactive safety across its network. This focus not only protects lives but also enhances operational efficiency and reduces potential disruptions caused by accidents. The success of the honored DOTs serves as a benchmark for other states, prompting them to implement similar programs and collaborate more effectively with railway operators. This collaborative approach has the potential to drive down incidents and improve the industry as a whole. Looking forward, continued investment in advanced safety technologies and robust partnerships with state and local agencies will be key to maintaining this progress.

Conclusion

The “Tracking to Zero” awards presented by BNSF Railway mark a significant achievement in improving grade crossing safety. The recognition of the DOTs in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Wisconsin, and Illinois underscores the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in mitigating incidents. The initiative’s rigorous standards and data-driven approach serve as a model for railway operators nationwide. The proactive engagement by these states, in partnership with BNSF, demonstrates that a shared commitment is essential for safer railway operations. As BNSF continues to invest in advanced safety technologies and foster partnerships with government agencies, the industry can expect further improvements in the years ahead. This proactive approach will ultimately contribute to reducing incidents, creating safer communities, and enhancing the overall efficiency of the rail network.

Company Summary

BNSF Railway Company, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, is one of the largest freight railroad networks in North America. Operating across 32,500 miles of track in 28 states and three Canadian provinces, BNSF transports a diverse range of commodities, including agricultural products, consumer goods, and industrial products. The company is committed to safety and efficiency, investing heavily in track upgrades, signaling systems, and other infrastructure improvements to optimize its operations. Through programs like “Tracking to Zero,” BNSF works with local agencies to ensure the safe transportation of goods and promote a safer environment for the public. BNSF’s success is rooted in a robust network and commitment to safety, contributing significantly to North America’s economic development.