'MRL is accustomed to the peaks and valleys of the U.S. and global economy, Lewis said. Although the current economic environment will certainly be a challenge for us, and some changes will likely be necessary to adjust to current freight volume levels, we will continue to be focused on safety, efficiency and providing the best rail service in the industry.
Lewis is not alarmed about plummeting costs and government incentives for wind and solar production.
We value the global and local environment in which our employees live, work and play, he said. MRL hauls many different commodities, including wind power towers/blades and other products related to renewable energies and recyclables.
Typically, when volumes of one commodity shrink, growth occurs in another sector.
MRL stands ready to haul whatever commodity groups are in demand, Lewis said.
The great stabilizer, de Yong said, is agriculture.
The railroads got started with agricultural commodities, and at the end of the day there are going to be agricultural commodities again, he said. Thats what built the railroads.'
After I left ICC/STB, I worked for a firm representing MRL, and went west with family for vacation, visiting MRL during the trip.