FAQ

1) Is the turntable safe?

Safe operation of the turntable is a key objective for RST. Experts have already analyzed the design of the table and have made suggestions on safegaurds that will be built into the system. In addition to most of the operation being computerized, there will be alignment sensors and other safety systems to ensure a smooth and error free operation.

2) How much revenue is expected from the Railcars Sequencing Turntable?

Estimated revenue from a fully operational turntable, including regularly scheduled maintenance, should be around 125 million annually.

3) How much will the turntable cost to build?

An initial estimate of the cost of building the turntable at a site in New Jersey is around 200 million dollars. The funding of which will be through a combination of private equity and government grants. The breakdown of expenses is as follows:

  • Sequencing turntables 1000 ft. diameter = $150,000,000.00
  • (64) Electric traction motors at 80,000 = $5,120,000.00
  • Equipment for turntable operation = $7,000,000.00
  • 77,200 feet of rail track at 65.00 per ft. = $5,018,000.00
  • Rahway River Railroad Bridge = $15,000,000.00
  • Piles Creek Railroad Bridge = $2,000,000.00
  • Barge slip for 100'x 400' barge = $3,000,000.00
  • Sub Station for electric power and backup = $15,000,000.00

There is expected to be another 100 million needed for design, marketing and other expenses.

4) Where can I see an example of the turntable in action?

A video has been made of the turntable can be seen on our home page and also has been posted on YouTube.

5) What is the average value of a freight car?

The average value of the freight in one car is around $75,000. Freight consists of 100 cars can have $7,500,000 worth of cargo sitting idle in typical yards today. RST's freight turntable will eliminate this idle time and get the shipments on their way.

6) What types of rail traffic can the freight turntable handle?

RST's freigh turntable will be able to handle simultaneously:

  • Direct double-stack "hook and pull" rail service from deep water seaports
  • Bulk manifest traffic
  • Intermodal traffic
  • Interchanges with railcar barges, tractor trailer chassis, shortlines and Class I railroads
  • Routing of defective cars to onsite repair shops