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Hi there- I am a real estate developer of wh/dist buildings around major transportation hubs. I need to understand intermodal yards in more detail- as it is becomimg a key part of this industry. A few questions for you experts out there... What are all the intermodal yards in Chicago area? Why do users select certain yards over others? Who are the best people to talk to to understand the business model?
Thanks very much-
Amy
RRCHINA Member # 1514
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I have some familiarity with two and there are several more that I have no knowledge about.
BNSF has one at Willow Springs located just east of Willow Springs Road and west of Route 45 on the north side of the Des Plaines River. Their 2nd one is at the site of the old Joliet Arsenal.
These yards have several criteria which not all will apply in a given circumstance. Following are a few of them: 1. Must be near to existing main line of the RR 2. Must be near to major highways or Interstates. 3. Require a substantial site, ie, several acres. 4. Require support of local community, no NIMBYS 5. Minimum developement costs very helpful, like no drainage or flooding problems. 6. Probably room for future expansion
The decision to create a new intermodal yard is made at the highest steps on the corporate ladder. There will be a vice president with initial duties but these have differing titles so you will have to do your own detective work.
I have been away from this for several years and the corporate hierarchy is constantly changing, as are the criteria, so try to find someone at Union Pacific or BNSF in the Chicago area and get you clues from them.
aclay Member # 4117
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Thank you very much for the insight. WHat are NYMBYS?
RRCHINA Member # 1514
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NOT IN MY BACK YARD
Commonly used abreviation for those who want nothing new near them
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