Brian Offenbach

Brian Offenbach asked for perspective on recent headlines regarding the Meridian Speedway, service disagreements, and the timeline for unlocking its full potential, including track speed improvements.

Answer

President and CEO Keith E. Creel clarified that the Meridian Speedway infrastructure will be completed in January 2026, enabling 49 mph speeds. He dismissed the dispute with NS as a 'self-serving narrative,' asserting CPKC's right to run 8,500-foot trains as designed. He noted that CPKC trains experienced over 11 hours of daily delays to accommodate NS's longer eastbound trains, which CPKC will not subsidize.

Brian Offenbach asked for perspective on recent headlines regarding service disagreements on the Meridian Speedway and the timeline for unlocking its full track speed potential.

Answer

President and CEO Keith Creel stated that the Meridian Speedway infrastructure will be completed by January 2026, allowing for 49-mile-an-hour track speed. He dismissed the dispute with NS as a 'self-serving narrative,' asserting CPKC's right to run 8,500-foot trains as designed, and noted a temporary agreement with NS to accommodate longer trains until additional crew resources are in place by mid-November.