Enhanced rail power supports faster switching, improved logistics, and job-creating industrial growth across Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas
Texarkana, USA (November 20, 2025) — TexAmericas Center, ranked the No. 5 industrial park in the United States and one of the nation’s largest mixed-use industrial parks, has commissioned two new locomotives to expand on-site switching, transload, and rail yard capabilities. The investment increases capacity, enhances crew safety, and accelerates operational efficiency for tenants across its four-state service region.
The two EMD GP38-2 locomotives, each rated at 2,000 horsepower, are part of a $3.15 million infrastructure expansion designed to improve staging and spotting reliability, reduce bottlenecks, and strengthen supply chain performance. For tenants, the added horsepower enables faster turnaround times, more predictable rail service, and improved Speed-to-Market—resulting in quicker Speed-to-Profit.
“This is about giving businesses the service they need to move faster,” said Scott Norton, CEO and Executive Director, TexAmericas Center. “With added power and control on our own footprint, we can switch cars more efficiently, keep people safer on the ground, and help companies stay on schedule.”
Strategic Investment Strengthens Regional Logistics Network
Located in the Texarkana logistics hub, the locomotives support area manufacturers, enhance service for Red River Army Depot, and increase competitiveness for new industrial investment across Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.
The project received a $1.5 million Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant from the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, enabling accelerated deployment and supporting defense-related operations in the region.
“We are grateful for the Commission’s support,” Norton added. “Their investment helped us turn plans into action and deliver real-world reliability for the defense supply chain and for the companies that put people to work here.”
Upgrades Reduce Emissions, Improve Safety, and Enhance Performance
Both locomotives have been modernized for daily commercial service, featuring:
- Tier Zero Plus emissions upgrades
- Hot Start technology to reduce idle time and fuel usage
- Next-generation traction motors for better tractive effort
- FRA-approved event data recorders
- Enhanced lighting and visibility for safety
- Upgraded climate-controlled operator cabs
“This investment is about performance you can feel on the ground,” Norton said. “We stage and spot with more precision, cut idle time, and keep people out of harm’s way. That means tighter cycle times and a more dependable rail experience for every shipper on our campus.”
Ceremony Marks Milestone in Continued Rail Expansion
TexAmericas Center held a commissioning ceremony on the East Campus featuring officials from Red River Army Depot, the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, and state leaders. The event included remarks, media interviews, and a ceremonial bottle break and horn salute.
The new locomotives support ongoing rail development, including new track on the East Campus, additional spurs, and expanded sit yards.
As a designated Union Pacific Focus Site, TexAmericas Center plans to leverage additional rail capability to lower shipping costs, reduce transit times, and support economic growth throughout the region.
About TexAmericas Center
Located in the Texarkana metropolitan area, TexAmericas Center is one of the largest mixed-use industrial parks in the United States, offering nearly 12,000 development-ready acres and 3.5 million square feet of commercial and industrial space. The site serves companies across Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas, offering streamlined development approvals that reduce project timelines by 12–18 months.
TexAmericas Center has been ranked among the nation’s Top 10 Industrial Parks by Business Facilities for six consecutive years, most recently earning the No. 5 ranking in 2025. It also operates a 350-car rail yard with more than 30 miles of rail lines and is designated a Union Pacific Focus Site, Foreign Trade Zone #258, Opportunity Zone, New Market Tax Credit Census Tract, Texas Enterprise Zone, and EB-5 investment area.
The organization provides 3PL services, spec-build development, flex leasing, and build-to-suit options to support companies expanding or relocating to the region.
To learn more, visit TexAmericasCenter.com.
