Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) has officially inaugurated its first railway in Western Canada, the Red Deer Railway Limited (RDR), marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy. The new railway line stretches 43 miles, running from Jackson, Alberta, to Homeglen, Alberta, and includes operating rights on the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) line from Red Deer to Chigwell and Prentiss, Alberta. The strategic connection through the CPKC network gives the Red Deer Railway direct access to the larger North American freight rail system, providing vital connectivity for regional businesses to global markets.
The Red Deer Railway also aims to meet the growing logistical demands of Alberta’s Industrial Heartland, with a range of specialized services tailored to local business needs. Among its offerings, RDR provides railcar storage capacity, car-to-truck transloading, and railcar switching capabilities. These services position the railway as a crucial asset for the region’s energy sector and other industries, enabling more efficient transport solutions and enhanced supply chain flexibility. The railway’s workforce, consisting of ten employees, is dedicated to ensuring smooth operations and high-quality service for their customers.
Rick McLellan, President of G&W Canadian Operations, emphasized the railway’s strategic role in enhancing service for shippers. “With the launch of Red Deer Railway, businesses in Alberta can now rely on the same efficient first- and last-mile service that G&W’s railroads in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Quebec have become known for,” McLellan stated. “We are committed to delivering service that is responsive to the individual needs of businesses along our 43-mile line. Whether it’s helping a business locate the best rail access point or expanding its market reach through our direct connection to North America’s freight rail network, we’re excited to partner with local industries to help them grow.”
The official opening of Red Deer Railway was celebrated in Bentley, Alberta, with representatives from G&W, local officials, customers, and industry partners coming together to mark the occasion. Bentley Mayor Greg Rathjen and Alberta Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Jason Nixon attended the event, highlighting the broader significance of the railway’s launch.
“On behalf of the Alberta government, I want to extend my congratulations to everyone involved in the official opening of the Red Deer Railway,” MLA Jason Nixon said. “This marks the beginning of a new chapter for our region and will provide crucial support for local businesses, improve connectivity, and create new employment opportunities for Albertans. This project will have lasting benefits for our community and help drive economic development in the province.”
The acquisition of RDR’s assets, including its operating rights, from CPKC was part of a previously announced transaction between the two companies. This deal has enabled G&W to strengthen its presence in Alberta and open up new avenues for logistics services, which will benefit shippers and other industries along the line. With a highly flexible approach to operations, RDR is poised to meet the growing demand for efficient, reliable transportation solutions in Western Canada.
In addition to Red Deer Railway, G&W’s Canadian operations include a network of other railroads across the country. These include Railcare Inc., a railcar maintenance and repair facility located in Hamilton, Ontario, and BMS Locomotive Service Group Inc., a locomotive maintenance facility based in Edmonton, Alberta. These businesses, together with the new railway, help position G&W as a key player in the Canadian transportation sector, supporting the nation’s growing infrastructure needs.
As G&W continues to expand its operations across Canada, the Red Deer Railway will play a key role in supporting Alberta’s economic growth. The new railway enhances regional connectivity, facilitates access to new markets, and improves the efficiency of supply chains. With its customized services and strategic partnerships, RDR is poised to be a valuable asset for businesses in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland, contributing to job creation and economic development in the region.
