OmniTRAX Prepares Reopening Central Texas & Colorado River Railway

The reopening Central Texas & Colorado River Railway project by OmniTRAX facilitates aggregate shipments. Also, this revival involves a new partnership with BNSF Railway.

Work is nearing completion on a 49-mile stretch of the short line. Separately, repairs focus on an expansive network of crossings and bridges. This includes spans over the San Saba and Colorado rivers, as noted by Trains.com.

Reopening Central Texas & Colorado River Railway for Freight

“CTXR has a long history of serving Texas and our belief in the region and the line have driven us to cultivate new partnerships and restore service,” OmniTRAX President and Chief Operating Officer Sergio Sabatini said in a press release. Additionally, Sabatini expects these safe rail operations to drive regional economic growth by attracting new business.

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Meanwhile, the revival follows a fresh service agreement between BNSF and Texas Materials. This company provides asphalt, concrete, and other construction essentials. Operations are expected to resume in the second quarter of 2026, according to the railroad’s website.

Strengthening the Regional Construction Supply Chain

John Shogren, president of the Texas Materials Central Region, emphasized the route’s logistical value. “The CTXR line is a critical link in our supply chain, and its reopening will significantly strengthen our ability to serve key customers across the region,” Shogren said. In addition, reliable rail access provides the capacity to move high volumes of critical materials efficiently over long distances.

The full railroad covers 66 miles. At the same time, the current 49-mile restoration effort passes through San Saba. This city sits roughly at the midpoint of the section. Local leaders support the project. For example, San Saba Mayor Ken Jordan called the news “tremendous news.”

“Our community depends on reliable transportation infrastructure, and seeing this project progress so well gives us real confidence in the economic opportunities ahead,” Jordan said. “We are grateful for CTXR’s commitment to completing this work and look forward to the positive impact the restored rail service will bring to local businesses and residents.”

The line connects with the BNSF network at Lometa to move unit trains. This interchange is located roughly 83 miles northwest of Austin and 70 miles west of Temple. Additionally, it establishes a vital link for regional freight.

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