CPKC Completes Second International Rail Bridge Connecting Laredo, Texas, and Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

LAREDO, Texas – Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) has announced the completion of the new section of the international rail bridge spanning the Rio Grande, linking Laredo, Texas, with Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas. The project, known as the Patrick J. Ottensmeyer International Railway Bridge, significantly boosts freight capacity along this vital North American trade corridor.

Enhancing International Trade
"With the completion of this bridge, we have doubled our capacity to transport goods securely and efficiently through the largest commercial port of entry in North America," stated Keith Creel, President and CEO of CPKC.

"This achievement reinforces the strategic importance of Laredo and Nuevo Laredo as key trade hubs connecting Mexico, the United States, and Canada."

Driving Economic Growth
Creel emphasized that this infrastructure will enhance trade between Mexico’s growing industrial regions and key markets across the United States and Canada. He highlighted that this development is part of CPKC’s ongoing commitment to strengthening logistical connections and regional supply chains.

A Tribute to Patrick J. Ottensmeyer
The construction of this bridge began in 2022 under the leadership of Kansas City Southern (KCS). The project is named after Patrick J. Ottensmeyer, former President and CEO of KCS, who passed away in July 2024.

"Patrick’s vision and leadership were critical to making this project a reality," said Creel. "His legacy lives on in every operation that connects Canada, the United States, and Mexico."

Key Features of the New Bridge

• Total length of 1,170 feet.
• Plate girder bridge with a ballasted deck supported by six reinforced concrete piers.
• Designed for simultaneous two-way train operations, with the second track built 35 feet from the existing bridge.
• 4,500 feet of newly constructed track.
• Enhanced border security, including advanced X-ray inspection systems and surveillance cameras.

This bridge is the only rail crossing over the Rio Grande connecting Laredo and Nuevo Laredo directly, cementing its strategic importance for international trade. The project received a U.S. Presidential Permit for construction in July 2020 .

About CPKC
Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, CPKC is the only single-line transnational railway connecting Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Its 20,000-mile network and 20,000 employees provide integrated solutions for transportation, logistics, and supply chain management. For more information, visit cpkcr.com.