A market made to order

摘要

In a word, the North American crosstie market is strong. Demand is up for every segment and 2005 tie purchases are expected to reach their highest level this decade. Wood-tie orders, which account for 95 percent of crosstie purchases, should total 18.5 million to 19 million units this year, surpassing last year's forecast of 17.5 million units in 2005, according to the Railway Tie Association (RTA). "We see a robust fourth quarter," says RTA Executive Director Jim Gauntt. During the past two years, Class Is have been moving more cars and operating heavier trains, requiring the roads to increase track maintenance. And this year, several regionals and short lines are using proceeds from Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing program loans or taking advantage of federal tax credits to upgrade lines. Small roads will purchase 300,000 additional ties this year, Gauntt estimates.