Blackwell Northern Gateway Railroad

[6] When the region experienced flooding in May of 2019, the line was severely damaged in areas around Blackwell, Braman, Oklahoma, and South Haven, Kansas.

[7][8] On February 2, 2024, the Federal Railroad Administration issued an Emergency Order shutting down the BNG due to public safety concerns over operations and maintenance of the line after new ownership and management took over in October 2023.

[11] Prior to the shutdown order there was an incident involving a hi-rail truck on January 28th that nearly collided with a vehicle at an unprotected grade crossing.

[12] Rock Island Rail requested in late February 2024, and received in early March 2024, an FRA emergency order allowing it to take over operations of the BNG for at least 30 days to be able to handle urgent needs for two shippers on the line.

[13][14] However on October 11, the Oklahoma & Kansas Railroad, part of the Rock Island Rail, was informed that its lease was terminated almost 6 months after agreeing to take control of the line.