Marquette Rail Keeps Chugging: 129 Miles of Lease Extension Drama
Published Date: 4/25/2025
Notice
Summary
Marquette Rail, LLC is extending its lease to keep running about 129 miles of rail lines in Michigan, which it’s been operating since 2005. This deal with CSX Transportation means no big changes in money or service, just a smooth continuation with some updated terms. The lease extension keeps trains rolling and promises to stick to agreed interchange rules, all effective soon after approval.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Continued Freight Service in Michigan
Marquette Rail, LLC will continue to lease from CSX Transportation and operate about 129.03 miles of rail line in Michigan across four segments (including Grand Rapids–Baldwin, Baldwin–Ludington, Walhalla–Manistee, and a 2.63-mile Filer City Spur). The continuation takes effect after the Surface Transportation Board sets an effective date in a separate decision.
Lease Includes Interchange Commitment
The amended lease between Marquette Rail, LLC and CSX Transportation includes an interchange commitment, and MQT provided additional information about that commitment as required by 49 CFR 1150.43(h). A copy of the amended lease was filed under seal as part of the submission.
Labor Notice Waiver Requested
MQT certifies its annual revenues currently exceed $5,000,000. Under 49 CFR 1150.42(e), carriers with projected annual revenues above $5,000,000 must post a notice at least 60 days before the exemption becomes effective to employees and national union offices, but MQT has requested a waiver of that 60-day advance labor notice requirement. The Board will address the waiver request and establish the exemption effective date in a separate decision; petitions for stay must be filed no later than May 2, 2025.
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