HOW WESTERN STATES RAILROAD SOLUTIONS SUPPORTS CLASS II AND CLASS III RAILROADS

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Class II and Class III railroads—often referred to as regional and short line railroads—are the backbone of local freight movement across the U.S. These smaller railroads face unique operational challenges, from limited budgets to specialized maintenance needs. At Western States Railroad Solutions, we’re proud to offer tailored support that helps these railroads stay safe, efficient, and on track.

Tailored Solutions for Unique Railroad Needs

Our approach starts with personalized support. We work directly with railroad teams to understand their specific maintenance-of-way (MOW) requirements and provide the right tools for the job. Whether it’s a hi-rail excavator for tie replacement or a brush cutter for vegetation management, our rental fleet is built to meet the demands of smaller railroads operating in diverse environments—from coastal tracks to mountain corridors.
Our dedicated support team ensures one-on-one communication, helping crews select the right equipment and attachments for their geographic and operational needs. This hands-on approach allows us to deliver flexible, scalable solutions that fit the realities of Class II and III operations.

Overcoming the Biggest Challenges

Smaller railroads often face:
  • Limited capital for equipment purchases
  • Seasonal spikes in maintenance needs
  • Remote or hard-to-access track segments
  • Compliance with FRA and OSHA standards
Western States helps overcome these challenges by offering:
  • Hi-rail MOW equipment rentals that reduce upfront costs and provide access to modern, well-maintained machinery
  • Emergency response services, available 24/7, to minimize downtime during derailments or equipment failures
  • Rail-specific attachments and custom-built solutions for excavators, including buckets, thumbs, and couplers
  • Operator training and on-site support to ensure safe and efficient use of equipment
Our goal is to empower regional and short line railroads to maintain their infrastructure with confidence and control.

Innovation That Moves Class II and III Railroads Forward

Looking ahead, Western States is investing in engineering advancements that directly benefit Class II and III railroads. One of our most exciting developments is a new hi-rail drive system for excavators, designed to deliver:
  • Increased torque and tractive effort
  • Improved hydraulic flow for smoother operation
  • Modular components for easier maintenance
  • Enhanced safety features, including dynamic, service, and emergency braking systems
This system was built from the ground up based on real feedback from railroad operators and is now adaptable across multiple excavator models. It’s a prime example of how we listen, innovate, and deliver solutions that make a difference.

Why Class II and III Railroads Choose Western States

  • Extensive rental inventory of hi-rail excavators, boom trucks, tie handlers, and more
  • 24/7 emergency support and derailment response
  • Custom-built equipment tested on our dedicated rail track
  • Proven track record of helping railroads navigate emergencies and seasonal demands
Ready to get on track? Whether you’re managing a short-term maintenance project or planning long-term upgrades, Western States Railroad Solutions is your trusted partner for reliable equipment, responsive service, and innovative rail solutions.
Contact our Railroad Solutions team today to explore rental options and learn how we can support your railroad’s success.

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