CN is allocating approximately C$3.4 billion in 2025 to maintenance and “strategic” infrastructure initiatives, plus rolling stock (net of customer reimbursements), the Class I reported May 15. The investment, CN said, underscores the railroad’s “commitment to growing capacity, enhancing safety, and powering sustainable growth across its North American network.”
Editor’s Note: Investments for Wisconsin were added on July 2.
This year’s capital expenditures program includes some C$2.9 billion for maintenance and infrastructure initiatives across Canada and the United States. Projects already under way include more than 225 miles of new rail installation and approximately eight capacity-building projects in Western Canada that are scheduled to come online by the end of this year, according to CN. Another C$500 million-plus will go toward upgrading and expanding rolling stock.
“At CN, we believe investing in our network is investing in the future of North American supply chains,” CN President and CEO Tracy Robinson said. “Our 2025 capital program reflects a clear focus on strengthening the resilience, efficiency and sustainability of our operations. These investments are about delivering exceptional service today—and building a safer, more connected tomorrow for our customers, employees, supply chain partners, and the economy.”
The Class I in May, June, and July provided the following track maintenance and strategic infrastructure investment details by province in Canada and by state in the U.S., totaling approximately C$3.4 billion:
- Approximately C$600 million will be spent in Ontario, where it employs 4,093 people and operates 2,354 route miles. This covers projects that continue to invest in technology, as well as ongoing multi-year projects that will build capacity and support growth. In 2024, CN spent about C$528 million in Ontario. Initiatives included C$60 million-plus invested with project partners for the completion of Phase 1 and advancement of Phase 2 of the new “high efficiency” loading fuel terminal at CN’s MacMillan Yard in Vaughn, Ontario, serving customers in the Greater Toronto Area; and more than C$49 million to support construction of the Milton Logistics Hub. For 2024, CN reported C$3 million in community investments; C$3 billion in local spending; and C$138 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately C$510 million in Alberta, where it employs 3,421 people and operates 2,505 route miles. This covers projects to increase intermodal capacity in Edmonton, and continued work to build greater rail capacity along CN’s main line between Edson and Hinton. In 2024, CN invested approximately C$357 million in Alberta. This included C$35 million-plus to build capacity along CN’s Edson Subdivision track between Pedley and Galloway; this multi-year project along the railroad’s main line track between Jasper and Edmonton is slated to “enable greater capacity, supporting greater market access for North American supply chain partners from both Vancouver and the Port of Prince Rupert.” For 2024, CN reported C$2.1 million in community investments; C$968 million in local spending; and C$83 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately C$615 million in British Columbia, where it employs 2,698 people and operates 2,797 route miles. This covers many multi-year projects to increase fluidity in the Vancouver corridor and build capacity along CN’s network from Prince Rupert and across Western Canada. In 2024, CN spent about C$554 million in British Columbia. This includes more than C$22 million for siding extension projects to help provide additional fluidity along key corridors from the Port of Vancouver to Kamloops and north to Fort St John. The investment also helped advance projects to improve fluidity and capacity in the Greater Vancouver area, such as a C$7.6 million initial investment in the multi-year Holdom Overpass project; C$2 million for improvements to the Thornton Tunnel; and C$7 million for upgrades to both the Lulu Island and Fraser River bridges. For 2024, CN reported C$2.7 million for community investments; C$559 million in local spending; and C$241 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately C$165 million in Manitoba, where it employs 2,269 people and operates 860 route miles. This covers upgrade projects to improve operations of rail yards in Winnipeg. In 2024, CN invested about C$200 million in Manitoba. Highlights include: more than C$16 million for signals and communications upgrades, and approximately C$12 million for the acquisition of equipment, such as tractors and trailers deployed in Manitoba and across CN’s network. For 2024, CN reported C$923,000 in community investment; C$1 billion in local spending; and C$75 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately C$475 million in Quebec, where it employs 3,521 people and operates 2,014 route miles. This covers projects to improve the efficiency of CN’s operations at its Taschereau rail yard in Dorval, as well as a number of information technology projects that will help better support customers and modernize CN systems. In 2024, CN invested about C$633 million in Quebec, including some C$27 million to upgrade CN’s dispatching system and rail traffic control simulator to help better train new employees, and more than C$40 million for new equipment, which included the purchase of new cranes and a number of vehicles as part of a fleet renewal program to be deployed in Quebec and across CN’s network. For 2024, CN reported C$4.6 million in community investments; C$2.1 billion in local spending; and C$114 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately C$290 million in Saskatchewan, where it employs 1,152 people and operates 1,845 route miles. This covers major projects to support CN customer initiatives and agriculture industry partners to improve the movement of grain and fertilizers. In 2024, CN invested about C$160 million in Saskatchewan, including more than C$6.7 million in shared investment for grade crossing upgrades, and more than C$3 million in upgrade projects to improve operations and support employees at CN’s Melville rail yard. For 2024, CN reported C$670,000 in community investments; C$117 million in local spending; and C$105 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately C$80 million in in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. In N.B., it employs approximately 362 people and operates 596 route miles; in N.S., it employs approximately 356 people and operates 162 route miles. The funding covers upgrade projects to improve operations at CN’s rail yards and the CN Autoport facility in Eastern Passage, N.S. In 2024, CN invested about C$84 million in N.B. and N.S., including more than C$5 million for a rail bridge upgrade on CN’s Napadogan Subdivision in N.B. and some C$4 million in improvements to CN’s Autoport in Eastern Passage, N.S. For 2024, CN reported C$687,000 in community investments in N.B. and C$453,000 in community investments in N.S.; C$55 million in local spending in N.B. and C$89 million in local spending in N.S.; and C$18 million in cash taxes paid in N.B. and C$8.1 million in cash taxes paid in N.S.
- Approximately $170 million in Illinois, where it employs about 1,667 people and operates 1,256 route miles. This includes investments toward the construction of the Chicago Logistics Hub and projects to upgrade technology and training facilities at CN’s Homewood Campus, as well as network improvements. In 2024, CN invested about $234 million in Illinois, including more than $54 million for a four-mile siding extension in the Greater Chicago area, boosting corridor capacity by 17%; more than $15 million for new equipment, including the acquisition of 500 intermodal (EMP) containers and a number of vehicles as part of a fleet renewal program to be used in Illinois and across CN’s network; and approximately $10 million to improve intermodal operations and build capacity in the Greater Chicago area. For 2024, CN reported $361,000 in community investments; $1.0 billion in local spending; and $46 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $75 million in Mississippi, where it employs about 497 people and operates 575 route miles. This includes investments to support track maintenance and strategic infrastructure initiatives in the state. In 2024, CN invested approximately $56 million in Mississippi, including about $250,000 for upgrades at CN’s Jackson rail yard and to build capacity on the Beaumont Subdivision between Jackson and Collins, Miss. For 2024, CN reported $50,000 in community investments; $55 million in local spending; and $15 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $20 million in Indiana, where it employs about 419 people and operates 102 route miles. This includes investments to increase capacity and upgrade rolling stock. In 2024, CN invested approximately $28 million in Indiana, including more than $2 million for projects to upgrade operations at CN’s Kirk rail yard and about $400,000 for the purchase of equipment, including vehicles and tractors to be used in Indiana and across the network. For 2024, CN reported $120,000 in community investments; $66 million in local spending; and $4.7 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $30 million in Tennessee, where it employs about 655 people and operates 161 route miles. This includes investments in infrastructure, technology, rolling stock equipment, and network improvements. In 2024, CN invested about $36 million in Tennessee, including $7 million-plus to support the upgrade of the locomotive fueling facility at Harrison Yard; and more than $1.3 million for upgrades to CN’s transload facility at its Memphis rail yard. For 2024, CN reported $64,000 in community investments; $24 million in local spending; and $8.7 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $60 million in Minnesota, where it employs about 569 people and operates 426 route miles. This will support track maintenance and strategic infrastructure initiatives in the state. In 2024, CN invested some $77 million in Minnesota, including more than $9 million to upgrade and improve operations at CN’s Two Harbors rail yard and more than $2.5 million to upgrade and build capacity at CN’s Duluth Iron Ore Dock. For 2024, CN reported $60,000 in community investments; $117 million in local spending; and $19 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $85 million in Michigan, where it employs about 1,033 people and operates 812 route miles. This includes projects to build intermodal capacity and upgrades to improve operations at CN’s Lansing, Battle Creek and Flint rail yards. In 2024, CN invested some $79 million in Michigan, including more than $3 million to support the completion of CN’s Flat Rock Transload facility; more than $5 million for upgrades to CN’s Autoport operations in Lansing; and $4 million-plus to support its automotive facility in Lake Orion. For 2024, CN reported $144,000 in community investments; $136 million in local spending; and $8.1 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $38 million in Iowa, where it employs about 258 people and operates 572 route miles. This supports track maintenance and strategic infrastructure initiatives in the state. In 2024, CN invested $31 million in Iowa, including approximately $1.4 million to upgrade the track and build capacity on CN’s Osage Subdivision near Cedar Rapids and more than $1 million toward upgrades at CN’s Waterloo rail yard to improve operations. For 2024, CN reported $98,000 in community investments; $29 million in local spending; and $6.2 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $50 million in Louisiana, where it employs about 227 people and operates 330 route miles. This includes projects to build capacity in the New Orleans area and upgrades to improve operations at CN’s Geismar rail yard. In 2024, CN invested $52 million in Louisiana, including more than $18 million for bridge upgrades in New Orleans. For 2024, CN reported $72,000 in community investments; $25 million in local spending; and $9.2 million in cash taxes paid.
- Approximately $110 million in Wisconsin, where it employs about 1,197 people and operates 988 route miles. This includes investments in infrastructure, technology and capacity, as well as network improvements. In 2024, CN invested $110 million in Wisconsin, with more than $3.5 million going toward new equipment, including vehicles as part of a multi-year fleet renewal program for Wisconsin and across the network, and more than $1.5 million for upgrades at CN’s Stevens Point rail yard to improve operations. For 2024, CN reported $146,000 in community investments; $251 million in local spending; and $14 million in cash taxes paid.
“CN is a key partner in strengthening Ontario’s economy and supply chains,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation for Ontario. “Our government is building a more connected, competitive province by investing in infrastructure that reduces gridlock and supports long-term growth. We welcome CN’s continued investment into Ontario, a commitment that will help goods move more efficiently, create good-paying jobs, and build a stronger future for communities across the province.”
“CN provides nearly 400 businesses in our Acheson Industrial Area with world class-connectivity to global markets,” said Adam Gamble, Mayor of Parkland County, Alberta. “Through direct rail spurs and the nearby intermodal facility, CN’s critical infrastructure has positioned Acheson as the first stop in the Edmonton Metropolitan Region from the rapidly growing Port of Prince Rupert. Our longstanding relationship with CN will continue to provide our diversified business sectors with the logistics capacity to optimize supply chain efficiency, reduce operating costs, and be difference makers in global trade.”
“CN’s investment reflects the vital role British Columbia plays in Canada’s transportation and trade network,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit, Government of British Columbia. “Strengthening rail infrastructure across our province, in both urban centres and smaller communities, will enhance supply chain resiliency and ensure goods move efficiently and reliably.”
“The Government of Manitoba celebrates CN and their continued investment in strategic railway projects and infrastructure to ensure the safe movement of goods across the province,” said Lisa Naylor, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Government of Manitoba. “Railways are essential to supporting trade in getting goods to market and an important local employer; CN’s investment in sustainable infrastructure will strengthen Manitoba’s position as an economic partner and create growth opportunities that will benefit all Manitobans.”
“Rail transportation is a vital pillar of our supply chain for moving goods efficiently,” said Véronique Proulx, President and CEO, Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec (FCCQ). “By making significant investments in maintaining its infrastructure, CN is setting an example at a time when the entire transportation ecosystem—especially our government, must place greater emphasis on asset upkeep. Our recent study, Transportation Infrastructure in Quebec: Investing for the Future, presented at the FCCQ, clearly shows that strengthening these efforts yields significant economic and societal benefits.”
“We thank CN for their commitment to improving the rail system in Saskatchewan,” said David Marit, Minister of SaskBuilds and Procurement, Government of Saskatchewan. “Rail transportation is an essential part of getting Saskatchewan’s food, fuel and fertilizer to more than 160 countries around the globe. Our customers are expecting a reliable and timely delivery system, and this investment will help our robust transportation network continue to meet the needs of Saskatchewan producers, while supporting our export-based economy.”
“These investments by CN ensure Atlantic Canada is ready to power economic growth through strong, resilient supply chains that bolster domestic and international trade,” said Rhonda Tulk-Lane, CEO of the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce.
“CN has been a tremendous community partner across Will County for many years,” said Hugh O’Hara, President of the Will County Governmental League. “This announcement today [June 11] of additional regional investments highlights their commitment to our areas ongoing success.”
“We appreciate CN’s commitment to Mississippi and its investment in our cities and counties,” said Charles Busby, Southern District Transportation Commissioner of MDOT. “CN is a critical component of our state’s transportation and business sectors with operations in multiple regions. Their focus on safety strengthens our communities.”
“Whether it’s manufacturing or agriculture, CN plays a crucial role in driving the success of Indiana’s industries,” said U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.). “We appreciate their continued investment in our workforce, economy, and communities.”
“The Tennessee Department of Transportation is excited about CN’s investments in Tennessee,” said Dan Pallme, Assistant Bureau Chief–Planning Bureau at TDOT. “The approximately $30 million will increase the entire system’s fluidity as Tennessee continues to grow, connecting CN with its customers in Tennessee and beyond. The investment will support TDOT’s vision of providing a safe and reliable transportation system for people, goods, and services, supporting Tennessee’s economic prosperity.”
“CN’s significant investments in Two Harbors, Minn., to enhance its operations and infrastructure includ[ed] the addition of a new loop track and upgrading its rail yard,” said Lew Conner, Mayor of Two Harbors, Minn. “While improving CN’s efficiency, it also solidifies jobs for Two Harbors residents. These investments reinforce CN’s commitment not only to Two Harbors, but to supporting Minnesota’s iron ore supply chain and strengthening its transportation network.”
“As a member of the House Transportation Committee, we focus on a robust freight transportation network across Michigan,” noted Steve Frisbie, State Representative of Michigan’s 44th House District. “CN is a key component to moving freight efficiently and safely. I have seen this up close over the years as they move goods through my district in Calhoun County and Battle Creek. Michigan needs a strong rail network, and CN is a leader in making significant investments in the Great Lakes State.”
“CN’s $38 million investment into our state’s infrastructure is a big win for Iowa’s farmers, businesses, and communities,” U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) noted. “This project will not only improve the resiliency and efficiency of transporting Iowa products across North America, but it will also create jobs and support long-term sustainable growth in Iowa. Investments like this help ensure Iowa remains a leader in feeding and fueling the world, and I’m grateful to have CN invest in Iowa’s future.”
“I applaud CN for their investment in the State of Louisiana,” Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry said. “The implementation of strategic infrastructure initiatives, projects to increase operational capacity, and planned system-wide upgrades will continue to show CN’s commitment to safely move freight through the cities and parishes of Louisiana. This investment also shows CN’s commitment and partnership toward ensuring our vision of economic growth and prosperity is realized for citizens of Louisiana.”
“CN’s investment in Wisconsin infrastructure supports safer crossings and more reliable service statewide,” noted Don Vruwink, Wisconsin Commissioner of Railroads. “These improvements help ensure that Wisconsin communities remain connected, competitive and protected.”
According to CN, in 2024 it spent approximately C$3.5 billion on capex.
