City of Barstow
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RICH HISTORY
Barstow is a railroad town, nestled in the high desert with its beginnings in 1886 and the arrival of the Santa Fe (SF) Rail Road (RR) in 1888. The town was named after the SF RR President, William Barstow Strong. Since then, Barstow has grown from a small rural town to the bustling hub of transportation and commerce it is today, while still maintaining its heritage and hometown pride.
"BNSF is proud to celebrate its rich history and bright future in Southern California with this $1 + billion investment in Barstow to construct the Barstow International Gateway. This first of its kind, state-of-the-art master-planned rail facility is designed to improve goods movement across the United States, reduce port and highway congestion, create thousands of jobs in Barstow and increase equity, opportunity and economic competitiveness in the high desert."
BRIGHT FUTURE
The planned 4,500+ acre Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Rail Facilities in the City of Barstow will change the course of Barstow’s future by providing thousands of direct and indirect jobs, making Barstow a significant hub for the U.S. supply chain. Barstow is preparing a blueprint for necessary infrastructure, housing and supporting services such as restaurants, retail, entertainment and healthcare. This plan will provide for greater economic opportunity while enhancing the longstanding relationship between the City and BNSF. Barstow is ready for growth and committed to preserving its railroad roots in a community steeped in family values and healthy living.
BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies, with a rail network of 32,500 route miles in 28 states and three Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of the products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply and power communities throughout America and the world. BNSF moves those goods more safely and efficiently, on significantly less fuel, with fewer emissions than the all-highway alternative.
For More Information-
City of Barstow Economic Development - 760.255.5169
For Media Inquiries -
Contact The Ferraro Group, Public Information Consultants
Greg Ferraro at 775.351.8232 and Holly Silvestri at 702.340.6262