Railroads Emphasize Role in Steady Economy Ahead of Mega-Merger

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has released an analysis emphasizing rail's critical role in the economy and its ability to steady the supply chain. The study found that rail is less vulnerable to volatility and better-positioned to recover from supply chain shocks, and that cost fluctuations are less likely to reach consumers compared to trucking. The analysis also highlighted rail's resilience compared to trucking, citing sustained investments and long-term planning with customers across sectors. The study comes as Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern prepare to file their formal merger application with the Surface Transportation Board.