New Era for Belt Railway of Chicago: Former CN and CP Executive Jerry Peck Takes the Helm

The appointment of Jerry Peck as the president and general manager of the Belt Railway of Chicago (BRC) marks a significant milestone for the railroad industry. With a career spanning over four decades, Peck brings a wealth of experience to the table, having worked with prominent railroads such as Canadian National (NYSE: CNI) and Canadian Pacific (NYSE: CP). His expertise in operations, planning, and execution will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the BRC.

Peck's journey in the rail industry began in 1973, and he has since held various leadership positions, including general manager at Canadian National and Canadian Pacific. His extensive knowledge of the rail industry, combined with his experience in working with Class I railroads, makes him an ideal candidate to lead the BRC. As Peck himself noted, "The Belt Railway Company has a long and important history in North American railroading, and I am excited to continue to build on its legacy." The BRC, collectively owned by six Class I railroads, including BNSF, CN, CPKC, CSX (NASDAQ: CSX), Norfolk Southern (NYSE: NSC), and Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP), plays a vital role in the Chicago region's transportation network.

One of Peck's key responsibilities will be to work closely with partners at the state, local, and federal levels to streamline railroad shipments as part of the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency program. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of railroad operations, reduce congestion, and minimize the environmental impact of rail transportation. By leveraging his experience and expertise, Peck is well-positioned to drive positive change and contribute to the growth and development of the rail industry. The BRC's Clearing Yards, which dispatch over 8,400 railcars per day, will undoubtedly benefit from Peck's leadership, as will the 28 miles of mainline track and over 300 miles of switching track that the BRC operates.

As the rail industry continues to evolve, the appointment of Jerry Peck as the president and general manager of the Belt Railway of Chicago is a significant step forward. With his proven track record of leadership and expertise in rail operations, Peck is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry. As he works to develop the next generation of leaders in the railroad industry, his legacy will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. The rail industry, including companies like Canadian National, Canadian Pacific, and Norfolk Southern, will be watching Peck's progress closely, as he navigates the complexities of the Chicago transportation network and drives growth and efficiency in the region.