Second track plans in Billings to Points East

[Stuntman Ethan VIII]

Trying to figure out how far BNSF is going with its double-track work heading toward the Dakotas. While the Yellowstone River crossings pose a challenge, much of the track between Forsyth and Glendive looks prepped for expansion. Since the main splits near Miles City, is this project continuing all the way into the Powder River Basin? Rolled through Forsyth today and saw some grading near the old sidings. Wondering if that's part of the work.

 

[samsmith]

Trying to figure out how far BNSF is going with its double-track work heading toward the Dakotas. While the Yellowstone River crossings pose a challenge, much of the track between Forsyth and Glendive looks prepped for expansion. Since the main splits near Miles City, is this project continuing all the way into the Powder River Basin? Rolled through Forsyth today and saw some grading near the old sidings. Wondering if that's part of the work.

I heard they are pushing closer to Miles City but not sure they'll hit the Basin just yet. That grading by Forsyth is definitely part of it. BNSF's been busy for sure, so I wouldn't be shocked if they are targeting PRB next.

 

[Stuntman Ethan VIII]

My thinking on the Basin echoes yours. That would be a huge bite to chew all at once for this particular project. They're going full steam ahead on clearing up the single track east of Miles City for now. Have you seen any new survey markers or materials staged closer to the big Yellowstone Bridge itself?

 

[jameson41straight]

Yep, BNSF's been doing grading and prep work between Forsyth and Glendive and what you saw near the old sidings is likely part of it. The Yellowstone River crossings are a hurdle, and theres no clear sign its going all the way into the Powder River Basin yet.. but it could be in the cards long-term. Seen any bridge work or new signals near Miles City? That might tell us more.

 

[Harmon Shay]

I'm surprised to see this double-tracking. I thought business would be down through there with coal down. Of course I'd like to see Amtrak back through that area at some point.

 

[Stuntman Ethan VIII]

@jameson41straight haven't spotted new signals yet, but I'll swing by the east end of Miles City next week and take a closer look. If they're staging bridge gear, it'll be hard to miss.
@Harmon Shay yeah, coal's not what it was but they're still moving plenty of freight. Amtrak would be a welcome sight, though I doubt it's on BNSF's radar with all this freight focus.