Eagle Railcar Services Expands with New Facility in Junction City, Kansas
14 Oct 2024
News
Eagle Railcar Services, the nation's leading provider of railcar repair services, has expanded its operations in Junction City with its acquisition of the former Watco railcar repair shop in Junction City, Kansas in 2022. This strategic move allows Eagle Railcar Services to meet the growing demand for high-quality railcar repair solutions in the Midwest, further solidifying its position as the leader in the industry.
Founded in 2001, Eagle Railcar Services has evolved from a facility with 17 employees to a network of 13 repair shops spanning Kansas, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Louisiana. The company employs more than 1,400 professionals, all committed to providing exceptional railcar repair and maintenance services across the U.S.
A Growing Business Supported by the Community
Junction City's central location and supportive business climate have been key factors in Eagle Railcar Services' rapid expansion. In 2023, the City of Junction City provided a land grant to support the company's growth, tied to long-term employment goals. By October 2023, Eagle projects to have 51 full-time employees, with plans to expand to 100 by mid-2025 and 150 by the end of 2026.
The Junction City facility has tripled its workforce since 2022. Eagle Railcar Services aims to continue its trajectory by doubling its current employment over the next year and investing further in its facilities and personnel. Planned upgrades include M-1002 certification, enhanced cleaning capabilities, and expanded storage options, all aimed at making the Junction City plant a premier destination for railcar repair in the U.S.
Since purchasing the Junction City plant in 2022, Eagle Railcar Services has invested over $6 million in upgrades, including adding over 10,000 feet of new track, a new finish building, a new valve rebuild center, and state-of-the-art equipment. Wages have also increased by 38% across all craft positions, including blasters, painters, and welders, reflecting Eagle's commitment to its employees and recognizing their valuable contributions.
Comprehensive Services at Junction City
The Junction City facility, located along the Union Pacific Railroad, covers 66 acres with over three miles of track and 109,000 square feet of covered buildings. As a full-service freight car repair facility, it offers a wide range of services, including:
- Exterior and Interior Coatings: Maintenance, removal, and reapplication of protective coatings.
- Tank Car Services: Valve rebuilds, repairs, and requalifications to meet regulatory standards.
- Cleaning Services: Handling hazardous and non-hazardous materials, ensuring safe and compliant cleaning.
- Mobile Repair Units (MRUs): Providing mobile repairs for freight and tank cars on-site.
- Rule 88 B.2 Inspections and Repairs: Ensuring adherence to safety standards and operational compliance.
The shop can accommodate up to 200 railcars and offers short- and long-term storage solutions.
A Commitment to Excellence
Railroads are the backbone of North American freight transportation and rely on skilled professionals to keep operations running smoothly. Eagle Railcar Services takes pride in supporting this vital industry and always looks for driven individuals eager to grow with the company. With a 38% wage increase and a clear path for advancement, working at Eagle Railcar Services is not just a job—it's a long-term career in a thriving industry.
The Junction City-Geary County Economic Development Commission Can Help
For more direction or help connecting with resources, reach out to JC-GCEDC today. The region is growing, the economy is booming, and there is room for additional businesses to expand here. Our strategic location, paired with skilled labor and an actively pro-business climate, are assets for any company, but especially for our target industries. Explore our full array of tools for site selectors here and contact us at 785-762-1976 or edc@jcacc.org.