Alliance, TX
BNSF Alliance Intermodal Facility Expansion
Client: BNSF Railway
Our Role: Design and Construction Management

As one of the busiest intermodal hubs in the United States, the BNSF Alliance Intermodal Facility required a major expansion to accommodate the increasing demand for freight movement. The facility needed to support a projected 1.4 million lifts per year while optimizing efficiency, safety, and operational flow. The challenge was to reconfigure and retrofit existing infrastructure while ensuring uninterrupted operations in a high-traffic environment. Additionally, the project required extensive track modifications, lead extensions, and yard reconfigurations to support future growth and evolving industry demands.
Our firm led the design and construction management for the multi-phase expansion of the Alliance Intermodal Facility. The project focused on enhancing efficiency, increasing capacity, and improving overall functionality.
- Intermodal Facility Enhancements: The expansion introduced a new three-track rubber tire gantry crane module to improve container handling efficiency. Parking expansions were implemented to support growing volume and streamline operations.
- Automated Gate System: A state-of-the-art inbound and outbound Automated Gate System was installed, expediting processing times and reducing congestion.
- Fueling and Administrative Upgrades: The project included the construction of new fueling facilities and a modern employee and administration building to support workforce needs and improve site operations.
- Rail Infrastructure Improvements: The project’s key components included a six-mile mainline relocation, lead extensions, and the reconfiguration of the existing North Yard, which ensured seamless rail movement and increased capacity.
By strategically phasing the expansion, our team ensured that BNSF’s operations continued without disruption while meeting long-term growth objectives.
Key Features
- Increased Capacity: Designed to support 1.4 million annual lifts, significantly enhancing intermodal throughput.
- Operational Efficiency: Advanced technology, including an Automated Gate System, streamlines truck and container processing.
- Strategic Rail Enhancements: Six miles of mainline track relocation and yard reconfiguration improve connectivity and reduce bottlenecks.
- Sustainable Infrastructure: Modern fueling facilities and upgraded administrative spaces create a more efficient and environmentally conscious operational hub.
Outcomes
The expansion of the BNSF Alliance Intermodal Facility ensures that the facility remains a key hub for freight transportation, supporting economic growth and supply chain efficiency. By modernizing infrastructure and optimizing operations, the project enhances BNSF’s ability to meet increasing freight demands while maintaining service reliability.
- Seamless Operations: Carefully phased construction allowed uninterrupted facility use during upgrades.
- Enhanced Logistics Flow: Improved track alignment and intermodal processing reduce congestion and enhance efficiency.
- Scalable Growth: The facility is now equipped to handle future freight demands, supporting long-term industry expansion.
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Deanne Winkelmann, AICP

Matt McIntosh, AICP










