1. Home
 ›
2. Short Lines
 ›
3. Burlington Junction

Burlington Junction Railway: Serving The Heartland

Published: January 16, 2025

By: Adam Burns

The Burlington Junction Railway (BJRY) is a small but crucial part of America's extensive rail network. Formed in 1985, this short line railroad primarily provides switching services at nine different locations in Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri.

It may not boast the expansive reach of the Class I railroads, but the system nevertheless plays an indispensable role in efficiently connecting local industries to the broader national and international markets.

Within the railfan community the short line is famous for operating a rare C415, Alco's late model center-cab Century.  It once operated two but only #702 remains on the property today.

Burlington Junction's rare C415, #702, switches a customer on the north side of Burlington, Iowa on August 22, 2008. Doug Kroll photo.

Background

Founded more than three decades ago, the Burlington Junction began as a humble endeavor to take over 3 miles of former Rock Island trackage in Burlington, Iowa.  Today, this location provides short haul freight services, switching operations, locomotive repair, and transloading.  Overall, it handles over 3,000 carloads annually.

From its inception, the BJRY has been focused on providing excellent customer service and fostering a close relationship with local businesses. The dedication to these principles has undoubtedly contributed to its long-term success and sustainability.

Current Operations

The Burlington Junction Railway currently spans approximately 20 miles of track among its currently nine various operations within three states.  Its current locations include:

• Burlington, Iowa
• Mt. Pleasant, Iowa
• Le Mars, Iowa
• Montgomery, Illinois
• Quincy, Illinois
• Rochelle, Illinois
• Fenton, Missouri
• Ottumwa, Iowa

Economic Importance

The BJRY plays an essential role in local economies. It provides efficient freight services that are crucial for businesses looking to transport goods like grain, chemicals, steel, wallboard, lumber, bulk liquids, dry bulk, machinery, steel rebar, specialty oversize shipments, other bulk commodities.

Future Operations

Rail transport is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to move goods across long distances. Aside from being more fuel-efficient than road transport, rail significantly reduces carbon emissions.

The Burlington Junction recognizes this and continuously works towards fostering sustainable growth practices that align with the growing need for eco-friendly logistics solutions.

Looking toward the future, BJRY is likely to continue adapting its operations - and likely to expand by adding more transload/switching operaitons.

Diesel Roster

Burlington Junction GP15-1 #572 and SW1500 #1517 are seen here at the company's Rochelle, Illinois operation on July 10, 2024, which serves an industrial park. Doug Kroll photo.

The Burlington Junction is a testament to the importance of short line railroads in the broader transportation ecosystem.

By serving as crucial connectors between local businesses and global markets, short lines like BJRY are instrumental in promoting regional economic growth and ensuring the efficient movement of goods across the nation.

As industries evolve and expand, the Burlington Junction's commitment to service, flexibility, and sustainability is likely to see it remain a key player in the ever-evolving landscape of American freight transportation.