CPKC Expands Trade Capacity with New International Bridge at US-Mexico Border

CPKC has opened a new international railway bridge, doubling freight capacity at the US-Mexico border. This critical upgrade improves trade efficiency and strengthens connections between North American markets. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

CPKC Enhances Freight Efficiency with New Bridge

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) has unveiled a state-of-the-art railway bridge, boosting trade efficiency. This structure spans the Rio Grande, linking Laredo, Texas, and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

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The Laredo crossing remains North America’s busiest trade route and the primary corridor for US grain exports. According to the US Department of Agriculture, it plays a central role in shipping corn to Mexico.

Previously, freight movement relied on a single-track bridge, accommodating only 26 trains per day. Trains alternated directions every four hours, causing delays and limiting transportation efficiency.

The newly constructed bridge enables simultaneous two-way train operations, streamlining cross-border transportation. CPKC’s $100 million project reflects a strategic investment in modernizing infrastructure to meet growing trade demands.

CPKC Expands Trade Capacity Across Borders

The bridge, named after Patrick J. Ottensmeyer, honors the late CEO of Kansas City Southern. Ottensmeyer’s leadership guided the project’s successful completion before his passing in July 2024.

Kansas City Southern, which merged with Canadian Pacific in 2023, initiated construction in 2022. The project addresses increasing trade volumes between the United States and Mexico, strengthening economic partnerships.

Key features of the bridge include a 1,170-foot structure with six reinforced concrete piers. Engineers built a ballasted deck plate girder design to ensure long-term durability and reliability.

Positioned 35 feet from the original track, the new line adds 4,500 feet of track, increasing efficiency. The bridge supports higher freight volumes while maintaining operational reliability for cross-border shipments.

Enhanced Security and Sustainability for Cross-Border Trade

CPKC implemented advanced security measures to safeguard operations at the border. Features include a cutting-edge VACIS X-ray inspection system and surveillance cameras to monitor activity.

Creel emphasized the bridge’s role in ensuring secure and sustainable freight movement across the border. He highlighted how the project supports economic growth and trade reliability throughout North America.

The new bridge not only reduces transportation delays but also promotes environmental sustainability. Rail freight produces fewer emissions than road transport, offering an eco-friendly logistics solution.

CPKC continues to invest in infrastructure improvements, supporting seamless trade and connectivity. Its strategic upgrades prepare North American markets for increasing volumes and changing demands.

This project symbolizes progress, strengthening economic ties while advancing trade capacity across three nations. The modernized infrastructure positions CPKC as a leader in North American transportation innovation.

Source: www.world-grain.com

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