February 27, 2025 - TRA Newswire -

As the Brownsville and Rio Grande International Railway (BRG) turns 40 this year, the short line that serves the Port of Brownsville has seen growth surge at the southern-most port in Texas. 

The Brownsville and and Rio Grande is situated close to the SpaceX Starbase launch center and in the middle of an industrial port that has see a 400% increase in growth over the last five years.

"For four decades, The Brownsville & Rio Grande International Railway has kept America's supply chains moving with vital rail service that connects the Port of Brownsville to the North American freight network," said Texas Governor Greg Abbott. "We celebrate the BRG's 40th anniversary and look forward to decades more of partnership as the Port of Brownsville continues to be a major economic engine of North American commerce."

OmniTRAX, the rail and real estate affiliate of The Broe Group, is the parent of its Texas rail affiliate, Brownsville and Rio Grande International Railway (BRG).

Dignitaries from the Port of Brownsville, state and local economic partners, community leaders, and rail customers joined a leadership delegation from OmniTRAX and BRG to recognize the railroad's role in keeping North American supply chains moving safely and smoothly.

"The Port of Brownsville has posted record-breaking growth decade after decade and the BRG has been a dedicated partner with each history-making milestone," said BRG President Shariff Gonnella. "BRG's ability to connect Port customers to North American railroads in Mexico and the United States continues to play an important role in the Port's sustained success." 

The Port of Brownsville handled nearly 18 million tons of cargo over the past year, generating some $12 billion in cargo movement. 

The BRG interchanges with Union Pacific, CPKC's Mexican line, and BNSF, and connects the port's shipments of steel, agricultural products, food products, and commodities to the North American rail network. Brownsville and Rio Grande International Railway was formed in 1984 to serve the rail service needs for the Brownsville Navigation District and operates 45 miles of track within the port. The BND manages the Port of Brownsville's 40,000 acres.

"Efficient, reliable transportation is the backbone of trade, and the BRG plays a key role in facilitating the safe and secure movement of goods from the Port of Brownsville to industries across North America and beyond," said Brownsville Navigation District Chairman Esteban Guerra. "We are proud to work alongside BRG as we continue to shape the economic landscape of the Rio Grande Valley, bringing prosperity and opportunity to the communities we serve."

Photo credit: BRG/OmniTRAX