Official Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Chamber-Chat.com:  Live and unedited interview with Rounds Consulting Group on the Transformational  Rail project
• BNSF Project Report (Scope, size and project maps)
• GoRail: Arizon Train Facts
• Sign-Up Letter to support  the trnasformationnal  rail project

Summary:

Arizona’s business community is making history. Seventeen chambers of commerce have united in a powerful show of support for BNSF Railway’s $3.2 billion Logistics Park Phoenix project—an unprecedented investment set to transform the state’s economy, create tens of thousands of jobs, and reshape how goods move across the region. With BNSF now committing to major road improvements and regional leaders collaborating for balanced growth, Arizona is poised for a new era of opportunity. A  coalition of 18 chambers—from Flagstaff to Yuma—represents a powerful, statewide endorsement of the project’s potential to drive long-term prosperity.

Read the full artilce below for more details. 

BNSF Commits to Road Improvements in Landmark Chamber-Led Rail Meeting

Uniting for Progress: 18 Chambers Back BNSF Rail Project as Key to Arizona’s Economic Future

Surprise, AZ — In a pivotal moment for regional infrastructure, the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce convened a high-level strategic meeting  to discuss BNSF Railway’s proposed Logistics Park Phoenix (LPP) project in the Northwest Valley—a $3.2 billion privately funded investment poised to reshape Arizona’s logistics landscape.

The meeting brought together transportation experts, business leaders, and Maricopa County Supervisor Debbie Lesko, who played a key role in sharing residents’ concerns directly with the group.

“Supervisor Lesko ensured that community voices were heard and that public input remained central to the conversation,” said Raoul Sada, President & CEO of the Northwest Valley Chamber. “We generated new ideas and learned important details that will help guide future discussions.”

So far 18 chambers of commerce across Arizona—including the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, Greater Phoenix Chamber, Buckeye Valley Chamber, and Flagstaff Chamber—expressing strong support for the project and its potential to transform regional infrastructure and economic opportunity see lsit below).

“This project is transformational—it’s equivalent to hosting seven Super Bowls a year in terms of economic impact,” said Luis Cordova, Senior VP & COO of Rounds Consulting Group.

“It’s one of the largest infrastructure investments the West Valley has seen in decades, and it will reshape how goods move, how businesses grow, and how communities thrive.” said Cordova.

Lena Kent, BNSF’s General Director of Public Affairs, emphasized that the proposed facility will be the first of its kind in Arizona, combining:

·       A rail-served intermodal terminal

·       Integrated warehouse space

·       Logistics infrastructure designed to reduce truck traffic, lower shipping costs, and ease congestion across metro Phoenix.

Cordova, who served as lead analyst on the rail study, noted that the project is expected to deliver sweeping economic benefits:

·       50,000 new jobs

·       Billions in labor income

·       Over $258 million annually in state and local taxes for schools, public safety, and infrastructure

·       Increased freight efficiency and reduced rail traffic through urban corridors

·       Long-term growth in industrial and commercial development

Kent also officially confirmed that BNSF is actively working with ADOT, MCDOT, MAG and the City of Surprise to identify traffic mitigation strategies and is considering a significant and proportional investment to improve roads near the facility.

“We’re pleased to hear about BNSF’s collaboration with transportation agencies,” said Sada. “Their willingness to contribute to traffic solutions is a strong signal that we’re moving toward a balanced and equitable outcome.”

Danny Seiden, President & CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, added:

“Economic growth and quality of life are compatible goals. Community input was valued and heard, and collaboration is essential to shaping positive outcomes.”

The meeting showcased the power of regional cooperation and the shared commitment to building a stronger, more connected Arizona

Chambers Across Arizona Stand United

Chambers of commerce are among the most respected institutions in Arizona communities. Though independent and non-governmental, they often unite around issues that transcend city limits and impact the broader economic landscape. Chambers  reflects a core belief: the health of the business community and the health of the larger community are inseparable.



“When we invest in business, we’re investing in the future of our communities. Strong businesses create strong neighborhoods—and that’s why chambers exist: to connect, champion, and catalyze growth that benefits everyone.”
— Raoul Sada, President & CEO, Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce

The strength of this rail project lies in the unprecedented unity of Arizona’s business community. The following chambers have signed a joint letter of support, sending a clear message: Arizona is ready to lead.

• Apache Junction Area Chamber of Commerce
• Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Buckeye Valley Chamber
• Chandler Chamber of Commerce
• Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerece and Visitor Center
• Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce
• Glendale Chamber of Commerce
• Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce
• Greater Phoenix Chamber
• Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center
• Nogales Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center
• Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
• Prescott Chamber
• Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce  
• Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce
• Sky Islands Regional Partnership
• Visit Yuma
• Yuma Chamber

Arizona’s business community is ready to lead. To learn more or add your voice to this movement CLICK HERE