Northern Lines Railway Renews Minnesota Track Lease Agreement
Published Date: 1/8/2026
Notice
Summary
Northern Lines Railway is updating its lease to keep running about 14 miles of track in Minnesota, which it’s been operating since 2004. The new lease extends the agreement and tweaks some terms but doesn’t change the money or service right now. This keeps trains rolling smoothly between St. Cloud, St. Joseph, and Rockville for the foreseeable future.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Continued freight service on 14.13-mile line
If you run a business near St. Cloud, St. Joseph, or Rockville, MN, Northern Lines Railway will continue to lease and operate approximately 14.13 miles of rail line in Stearns, Sherburne, and Benton Counties. The amended lease modifies provisions and extends its term and the transaction may be consummated on or after January 22, 2026, keeping local freight rail service available.
Lease includes interchange commitment
If you ship freight on this line, the lease contains an existing interchange commitment and Northern Lines provided additional information about that commitment under 49 CFR 1150.43(h). The company submitted confidential copies of the amended lease in supplements dated December 9 and December 23, 2025.
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