Did you know that in America everyday, more than:

• 6.3 billion miles of vehicle travel is logged;
• Nearly 19 million tons of products are shipped;
• 300 million tons of cargo shipped from waterports; and
• 4,000 tons of freight is shipped by railroad.

Idaho's Railroads The railroads in Idaho operate 1,634 track miles in the state, including main lines, secondary main lines, branch lines, and short lines. The state is served by two major long-haul railroads, the Union Pacific Railroad and the BNSF Railway, which provide connections to points in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The state also has one regional railroad, as well as six short line railroads that act as feeders to the major railroads.

The railroads are an important part of Idaho’s transportation system and economy. Idaho’s railroads originate over 11 million tons of freight traffic annually. Farm products are the top commodity originated, accounting for approximately 3 million tons. Other top commodities originated by Idaho railroads are lumber and wood products, food products, chemicals and nonmetallic minerals. Idaho railroads also terminate over 9 million tons of freight annually, including farm and food products, nonmetallic minerals and chemicals.

The Idaho Transportation Department does not own or operate any active rail lines. The role of the state rail program is to assist in the preservation of essential rail lines through state rail planning and use of the newly enacted Idaho Rural Economic Development and Integrated Freight Transportation Program, or other eligible programs that may become available.

Idaho Rail information available:

Freight movement in Idaho is an important element of Idaho’s transportation future. Whether used to transport agricultural products, high tech components, or numerous commodities, transportation is the thread that binds our state’s economy together.

Freight growth across the nation will double in the next 20 years with 88% of all commerce in commodities involving truck transportation on our nation’s roads and highways. As a “bridge” state, Idaho is experiencing its share of increased freight activity. Investing in freight infrastructures and networking the various modes (truck/rail/port/air) will facilitate the movement of vital commodities.