Transportation

The region is strategically located along the NAFTA corridor, and is easily accessible via road or air. The region is located on Interstate 35, the main north-south interstate through Texas that extends from Mexico to Canada. In addition, the other major highways in the community include: Interstate 14/US Highway 190, SH 36, SH 53 and SH 95, SH 195. Direct access to Interstate 35 positions GRAND CENTRAL TEXAS within 180 miles of 80% of Texas’ population and allows for quick access to four of the largest markets in the nation: Austin (50 minutes south), Dallas-Fort Worth (128 miles north), San Antonio (145 miles southwest) and Houston (170 miles southeast). It has the advantages of a strong supporting infrastructure and market but without problems associated with urban environment, higher costs, too-rapid growth, and difficult construction climate.

RAIL

Amtrak (The Texas Eagle)

The Texas Eagle is a 1,306-mile passenger train route operated by Amtrak in the central and western United States. Trains run daily between Chicago, Illinois, and San Antonio, Texas, and continue to Los Angeles, California. The rail service takes you through major cities such as from Austin, Dallas and San Antonio. In the Central Texas Region there are stations located in McGregor and Temple.

Rail Freight

When considered in terms of ton-miles hauled per unit of energy consumed, rail transport can be more efficient than other means of transportation. Maximum economies are typically realized with bulk commodities especially when hauled over long distances. Having access to a significant rail infrastructure is an advantage that many communities will not enjoy. GRAND CENTRAL TEXAS is served by two Class 1 railroads; Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) and Union Pacific (UP). Rail sites are available in Cameron, McGregor, Temple and Waco.