HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-08-21 Correspondence - MRL to Mayor Derek 011mann
Montana Rail Link President
Montana Rail Link
101 International Drive
Missoula, MT 59808
Dear Mayor Andrus,
Greetings to you and the City of Bozeman from Montana Rail Link (MRL).What a year it was.None of us could
have anticipated that a pandemic would have been the dominating theme of 2020 when I wrote to you last year. I
can tell you that I'm proud to lead a team at MRL made up of extraordinary men and women who came to work,
got the job done safely and delivered the essential goods Americans count on every day.
As we do with every meeting at MRL,we begin first with safety. Safety is the guiding principle and underpinning
behind everything we do at MRL.We have high expectations for our employees and our company, and we work
every day to make progress on our goal of eliminating all accidents and injuries at MRL.We continued to make
progress on that front this past year,and with training,technology and hard work,we will continue to make great
strides.
2021 will mark a yet another year in which MRL invests tens of millions of dollars in our infrastructure,making
sure we deliver on our obligations to our customers, our employees and the communities in which we operate.We
will also continue our investment in Positive Train Control(PTC),as we move along our path to voluntarily
installing the technology on our railroad.
Before COVID-19 began affecting Montana in early March, MRL was experiencing a strong growth pattern,
moving more freight each year. That of course stopped in the spring as the global economy came to a near
screeching halt.However, as economic activity began to pick up,we saw a steady increase in volume. Demand
for American grain products is robust around the world, and as more and more shoppers turned to online stores,
the U.S freight rail network saw a steady increase in year over year intennodal and consumer product traffic.
Though storm clouds remain on the horizon,I'm hopeful for an economic rebound in 2021 as I'm certain you are
too.
As one of the Washington Companies,in 2020 we re-dedicated ourselves to giving back to communities across
the state.In 2020,the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation in conjunction with MRL donated hundreds of
thousands of dollars to deserving non-profits who make a difference in their communities. We will continue that
important work in 2021. I'd also urge you to visit www.dpwfoundation.org to learn more about the Foundation's
initiatives and impact.
Lastly,on Veterans Day in November and again just before Christmas,MRL launched distinct locomotives,
wrapped in unique artwork,that serve as our enduring tribute to veterans and essential workers for their
dedication and sacrifice. I hope you have had the chance to see them as they make their way across our network.
We thank all veterans, essential workers and their families.
When in person meetings resume, I look forward to reconnecting with you. Until then, Happy New Year.
Kind Regards,
Derek
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