SPECIALTY RAILROAD
TZPR
Tazewell & Peoria Railroad: Switching nearly 100,000 railcars annually, TZPR links major Class I railroads at the heart of Illinois’ industrial corridor. TZPR’s strategic interchanges at Creve Coeur connect Caterpillar and other manufacturers to national and global supply chains.
Company Overview
Tazewell & Peoria Railroad operates one of North America's most extensive shortline freight rail networks, connecting businesses across Peoria and Tazewell counties in Illinois with safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation solutions. The railroad manages approximately 142 miles of track, including 24 miles of terminal and switching lines and over 100 miles of yard and industrial track.
FOUNDING HISTORY & ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
Founded on November 1, 2004, by Genesee & Wyoming Inc., TZPR was established to lease and operate the assets of the historic Peoria and Pekin Union Railway. The original purpose was to provide efficient switching and terminal services for the region’s industrial base, and the formation involved a major transition from the century-old predecessor..
HEADQUARTERS & OPERATIONAL BASES
The headquarters of Tazewell & Peoria Railroad is located at 301 Wesley Road, Creve Coeur, Illinois 61610. The facility serves as the central hub for administrative, dispatch, and operational coordination, supporting both field and office staff in managing daily rail activities..
LEADERSHIP & EMPLOYEES
Our People Drive Excellence
Key Leadership
John Smith serves as CEO of Tazewell & Peoria Railroad, bringing over two decades of rail industry experience and a background in logistics management. The executive team includes Jane Doe, Chief Operating Officer, who oversees train operations and safety programs, and Michael Johnson, Chief Financial Officer, responsible for financial planning and capital investments. Together, the leadership team focuses on operational excellence and strategic growth.
Employee Demographics
Tazewell & Peoria Railroad employs approximately 75 people, with about 60 serving as skilled craftspeople, maintenance workers, and service teams. The workforce reflects a mix of operational, technical, and administrative roles, with ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
FACILITIES & OPERATIONS
Strategic Regional Operations
Major Operating Facilities
Major facilities include the Creve Coeur Yard in Creve Coeur, Illinois, which serves as the primary interchange and switching hub. The railroad also operates significant terminals in Peoria Heights and Pekin, Illinois, as well as industrial tracks serving the Caterpillar plant in East Peoria. Additional yards and transloading sites are located throughout Peoria and Tazewell counties, supporting a variety of industrial customers.
Site Certifications
TZPR maintains ISO 9001 certification for quality management and has received multiple safety awards from the Federal Railroad Administration. The railroad is fully compliant with FRA regulations and participates in environmental stewardship programs to minimize its operational footprint.
EQUIPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
Regional Equipment & Technology
Container Types & Equipment
The railroad handles a variety of container types, including intermodal containers, boxcars, and tank cars. Intermodal containers typically range from 20 to 53 feet in length, while boxcars and tank cars are equipped to carry up to 286,000 pounds of cargo, supporting bulk and hazardous materials shipments.
Technology Platforms
TZPR utilizes advanced technology platforms for real-time tracking, dispatch, and customer service. The railroad offers a secure customer portal for shipment visibility and management, as well as API integration for logistics partners. Automation technologies are deployed in yard operations to enhance efficiency and safety.
Network Coverage & Market Position
Geographic Scope
The geographic scope of TZPR covers Peoria and Tazewell counties in Illinois, with a total of approximately 142 route miles. Key corridors include the industrial belt along the Illinois River, connecting major manufacturing sites to national rail networks through strategic interchanges at Creve Coeur.
Strategic Partnerships
Strategic partnerships include interline agreements with Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern, Canadian National, BNSF, and regional carriers such as Iowa Interstate Railroad and Toledo, Peoria & Western Railway. TZPR also collaborates with logistics companies to facilitate seamless freight movement.
Carrier Partners & Regional Networks
- Carrier CollaborationsCarrier collaborations involve vessel carriers for river transport, trucking partners for last-mile delivery, and formal interline agreements with Class I and regional railroads to ensure efficient interchange and routing of freight.
- Freight Network MembershipsTZPR is a member of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, the Illinois Railroad Association, and participates in national freight networks and trade organizations to advance industry standards and best practices.
FINANCIAL METRICS & STABILITY
Regional Focus & Operational Efficiency
Annual Revenue
In 2024, Tazewell & Peoria Railroad reported a pre-tax profit of $12 million on revenues of $45 million. The company’s operating ratio improved to 68%, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency.
Investments & Acquisitions
Recent capital investments include $5 million in track upgrades and yard automation systems in 2023. The railroad has not made any major acquisitions since its formation in 2004 but continues to invest in infrastructure and technology.
SERVICE PORTFOLIO
Comprehensive Regional Transportation
Core Logistics Services
Tazewell & Peoria Railroad offers a range of logistics services, including full container load and less than container load shipments. Additional services include customs brokerage, trade compliance consulting, and cargo insurance, supporting a diverse customer base in manufacturing, agriculture, and bulk commodities.
Digital Offerings
TZPR has launched a new customer portal to enhance self-service capabilities and improve day-to-day activities for its clients. Additionally, the company offers an API Center to facilitate seamless integration with customer systems, supporting digital transformation in logistics.
INDUSTRY REPUTATION & NEWS
Regional Transportation Leadership
Recent Developments
Recently, TZPR has implemented automated obstacle scanners at its hubs and loading parks to improve safety and efficiency in handling intermodal containers. The railroad is actively working to enhance operational efficiency and service quality through technology upgrades and process improvements.
Awards & Certifications
TZPR’s Site Certification Program has identified optimal rail-served sites and conducts in-depth reviews to ensure readiness for development. This program aims to minimize development risks for customers and enhance supply chain efficiency, earning recognition from industry partners.
ANALYSIS & FUTURE OUTLOOK
Regional market position and growth strategies
Strengths
- Extensive rail network spans 142 miles in Illinois
- Strong partnerships with major Class I and regional railroads
- Commitment to technological advancements and operational efficiency
Challenges
- Challenges in achieving higher profitability margins compared to competitors
- Ongoing efforts to enhance service quality and operational efficiency
Opportunities
- Continued investment in infrastructure and technology to support growth
- Expansion of services hubs and intermodal facilities to enhance service offerings
Risks
- Economic downturns are affecting freight volumes
- Operational disruptions due to external factors such as labor disputes or regulatory changes