Montana Rail Link Sold to Burlington Northern Railroad

Latest Update Tuesday, January 11, 2022: Montana Rail Link Clarifies the Conclusion of Lease with BNSF

KGVO has learned that Montana Rail Link has been sold to the Burlington Northern Railroad.

A letter from MRL President Derek Ollman to Montana Rail Link employees states,

‘Dear MRL Employees: I have some important news to share, and we want to make sure you hear it directly from us before it becomes public. After careful consideration, we have decided to conclude our long-term lease with BNSF Railway. BNSF will resume operations and maintenance of MRL which will provide long-term sustainability, predictability and opportunity for you and our Montana customers.’

The letter also states,

‘MRL and BNSF will be in touch with union leadership immediately to start negotiations regarding implementing agreements with MRL’s labor unions.’

Neither the President of MRL nor the Public Information Officer were available for comment to KGVO.

Montana Rail Link was established in 1987.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.