Wisconsin DOT, transportation development association mark Freight Rail Week

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has proclaimed Oct. 6-12 Wisconsin Freight Rail Week. Officials from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin (TDA) are teaming up to promote and celebrate the state's freight-rail system and its contribution to the state's economy, environment and quality of life.

Key products moved by Wisconsin's railways include coal, farm and agricultural products, paper, pulp, lumber and wood products, clay, and concrete. Thirteen railroads operate more than 3,500 miles of track in the state, and more than 160 million tons of cargo are moved in Wisconsin annually, according to a press release.

"Wisconsin's freight-rail system is crucial to business across the state," said TDA Executive Director Craig Thompson. "Railroads and our rail infrastructure are not necessarily top of mind when people think about the state's economy, but important industries — agriculture and timber, paper and coal, among many others — rely on Wisconsin's rail network to stay competitive."

The eighth annual Wisconsin Freight Rail Day is being held today in Appleton. The theme is "Freight Rail: Partner in Building Wisconsin's Economy," and is co-sponsored by the state's freight railroads.