On November 9, 2006, Edward R. Hamberger, President and CEO of the Association of American Railroads (AAR) issued a statement of congratulations and welcome to the 110th Congress. CEO Hamberger stated in part, "We have worked well with the Congressional leadership of both parties in the past and look forward to continuing that relationship in the future. Addressing the enormous logistical challenges the nation faces will require a united and concerted effort by Congress, the Administration, the rail industry, its customers and employees."

The demands for freight movement and logistical support are predicted to triple over the next decade. This could mean that If we don't add logistical capacity soon, we could very well be faced with a freight movement capacity shortage that has the potential to intermittently cripple our national economy.

The AAR President confirmed, "The nation's freight carriers are committed to continuing to do their part to expand rail capacity. Over the past decade, the railroad industry has invested $64 billion in its infrastructure, a rate that far exceeds that of most other industries. In 2006 alone, the rail industry plans to invest a record $8.3 billion in track, locomotives and other capital equipment. Over the next six years, the railroad industry will create 80,000 of the best-paying jobs in the country; jobs that are located here in America; jobs that will stay in America. We look forward to working with Congress to build and expand the American economy through freight rail transportation."

The fact is that freight railroads today are moving record amounts of cargo and posting unsurpassed safety numbers while at the same time charging freight rates that are - on average - considerably less than they were in 1982.

If you'd like to get an amazing view of the number of American (and other) railroad operators, have a look at the huge list I've linked to. If you'd like to invest in a railroad this is a great place to get started!