An estimated $22 billion will be spent on maintaining and upgrading the US private rail network in 2017, according to Edward Hamberger, CEO of the Association of American Railroads (AAR) (www.aar.org).

He said: “This year’s figure — a combination of capital expenditures and maintenance — is part of a continued trend of remarkable proportions, including more than $630 billion since the industry was partially de-regulated.

“Our role in moving the country’s freight is critical, and we look to be a productive part of a bipartisan infrastructure debate.”

The investment covers upgraded track and locomotives, as well as technological advances needed to meet demand and ensure safety.

“The most recent statistics show that freight railroads accounted for nearly $274 billion of economic activity, generated nearly $33 billion in state and federal tax revenues and supported nearly 1.5 million jobs nationally in 2014, according to the AAR.