2012 Rail Trends - Railway Association of Canada

Infrastructure Investment
and Productivity
2012
10
To improve service and increase the value
and performance of the supply chain, RAC
member railways continued their substantial
investment in the maintenance and development
of infrastructure in 2011. These companies are in
the distinctive position of financing the near entirety
of the network that forms the backbone of the
Canadian supply chain. Their investment is measured
by the industry term “additions to property,” which
includes purchasing rolling stock, improving bridges
and replacing rail and other track materials.
In order to keep pace with shipper demands and
maintain exceptional service at the lowest possible
rates, member railways ensure the existing network
is well-maintained and includes modernized facilities
and information technology systems. This concerted effort to uphold and
improve the efficiency of the rail network allows the railways to enhance
their productivity and attract new business. Not only did Canadian railways
keep up with growth in all areas of rail in 2011, but they did so while
improving operating efficiencies and offering better service to customers.
The RAC represents effectively all rail companies operating in
Canada – the large Class 1s, the regional and short lines railways, intercity
passenger, commuter rail and tourist train operators.
2011 investment and productivity highlights:
••
Canada’s rail sector invested $1.8 billion in additions to
property in 2011, a year-over-year rise of 7.6 per cent.
••
Employee productivity increased by 2.5 per cent to a record
8.5 million RTM (12.4 million RTK) per employee.
••
Canada’s railways contributed a record $158 million in tax
revenue, 7.5 per cent more than the previous year.