Engineering completed a major retarder replacement project in July, using planned outage time to accomplish additional track maintenance while doing the primary work efficiently.

The project included work in both the West and East classification yards. In the West Classification Yard, the team replaced the Group 2 retarder. To access it, the existing Group 3 retarder had to be removed. They then graded the area and installed 12 inches of hot-mix asphalt to provide a strong, level base for the retarders and support drainage. Group 3 was reset alongside the new Group 2 retarder.

The following day, similar work was performed in the East Classification Yard, replacing retarders in Groups 1 and 2 and resetting Group 3 to provide access. As with the previous day, they completed grading first and then installed the asphalt and set each retarder in sequence.

The job also created an opportunity to do other track maintenance within the outage area. Team members worked on tie, switch timber and rail replacement, gauging, spiking and other maintenance needs.

Multiple section gangs contributed to the effort, with Foremen Mike Heikes and Marc Shanahan serving in key leadership roles. Foremen Tom Curtis and Alex Rodriguez also supported work within the outage. Contractors provided heavy equipment support, including removal and placement of the retarders, grading and asphalt work, while BRC employees handled remaining tasks. Signal also provided support throughout the project.

Manager of Track Maintenance Will Lankford described the effort as an all-hands assignment that brought together people with a range of experience and responsibilities.

“Everyone understood their role and their assignment and what was expected of them,” Lankford said, noting all of the months of planning and preparation has put BRC in a position to successfully
execute this large-scale project.

The coordinated approach allowed the work to be completed within the scheduled outage time while also addressing additional maintenance needs. Lankford said the project demonstrated what Engineering can accomplish through collaboration.

“We showed how much we can accomplish when we just take the time to let each other shine,” he said. “Everyone did a fantastic job.”

The upgraded retarders and supporting track work are expected to provide enhanced performance and reduce maintenance needs. The work also included adjustments to the grade leading into the retarders, helping cars maintain better velocity as they move through the classification process.