CN Investing $35 Million in Iowa

Investments Focused on Safety and Capacity to Strengthen Rail Network, Help Reduce Emissions, and Support Economic Growth

HOMEWOOD, Ill., July 28, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) announced today that, as part of its strategic investments to support growing demand and enable supply chains, it plans to invest approximately $35 million (USD) across Iowa in 2020. The investments will focus on the replacement of ties and maintenance of bridges, level crossings, culverts, signal systems and other track infrastructure as well as continued investments in Positive Train Control.

“We take our essential role in the North American economy seriously and these investments in Iowa are a key part of our strategy to support growth. The Company remains committed to help enable supply chains that fuel Iowa’s growth as we are a critical part of getting everyday goods to markets and consumers. Safety is a core value at CN and by investing in the maintenance and expansion of our track and capacity, we are providing customers with a safe and reliable solution at a time when fluid supply chains are more critical than ever.”
      -      Derek Taylor, Vice-President, Eastern Region at CN

“CN has made significant investments for years across Iowa.  These investments will link us to global markets and set a firm foundation for a rapid economic recovery.  CN’s rail network helps our farmers, ethanol plants and, ultimately, Iowa consumers.”  
      -      Tim Kraayenbrink, Iowa State Senator

The Company’s investments will create greater capacity, which supports reductions in its customer’s transportation supply chain GHG emissions, by encouraging the use of rail for long haul needs. This reduces emissions, traffic congestion, accidents and burdens on public transportation infrastructure as one freight train can replace over 300 trucks from roads. Moving freight by rail instead of truck reduces GHG emissions by 75%. The Company will continue to deploy important safety enhancing technologies across its network, such as the Autonomous Track Inspection Program, Distributed Air Cars and Automated Inspection Portals.