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8/9/2001Freight News

A&M: From business development deals to land developer

Arkansas and Missouri Railroad Co. (A&M) Aug. 8 announced a joint plan with Allied Enterprises Inc. to develop nearly 19 acres of industrial land in Springdale, Ark.
The development would include intermodal and warehouse facilities with rail access.
"Sewer and water service are now available on the site as a result of our recent investment, while we await formal approval of a road to enable the site's development," said A&M President and Chief Executive Officer Larry Bouchet in a prepared statement.
In a related move, the 139-mile short line last week created a new company division charged with exploring opportunities for A&M's land assets.
A&M currently is interviewing candidates to run the new division, which initially would analyze the short line's leasing/rail siding activities to help grow A&M's transportation business.
"We hope to emulate the success of other short lines in leasing parts of our rail corridor to communication providers, developing appropriate signboard opportunities and disposing of surplus property not needed in our operations," said Bouchet.
Meanwhile, the short line July 31 completed another business-boosting transaction, reaching joint marketing agreements with Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Union Pacific Railroad and Kansas City Southern Railway.
"These agreements will result in better and more efficient service for our key customers," said A&M Vice President of Marketing Mark Bonnell.