Iowa Pacific Holdings joins AAR

The Association of American Railroads announced Thursday that Iowa Pacific Holdings (IPH) has become its newest full member.

Based in Chicago, IPH is a privately held company that provides freight and passenger rail service in six states and the United Kingdom.

“IPH owns and operates a diverse collection of railroads and rail services across North America,” said IPH President and CEO Edwin Ellis. “We are excited to join the AAR, which has been the leader in educating policy makers on the importance of the freight rail industry in America and ensuring best practices are shared among railroads.”

“We are delighted to welcome IPH to the AAR,” said AAR President and CEO Edward R. Hamberger. “Their decision to join AAR broadens our membership and strengthens our ability to represent the freight rail industry effectively before various public agencies and Congress.”

IPH operations include the Permian Basin Railways, which includes the Chicago Terminal Railway, Mount Hood Railroad, San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad, Saratoga & North Creek Railway, Texas-New Mexico Railroad, and the West Texas & Lubbock Railway. IPH also manages Central Car Repair, a contract freight car repair shop with locations in Colorado and Texas, and Isla Largo, an owner and lessor of rolling stock, locomotives, and track equipment. In the United Kingdom, IPH operates British American Railway Services, which includes the Dartmoor Railway, Devon and Cornwall Railway, Weardale Railway, and Rail Management Services, Ltd.

AAR noted IPH has received seats on AAR’s two governing committees, the Safety and Operations Management Committee and the Policy and Advocacy Management Committee. These committees are charged with developing policies and practices to enhance safety, promote solid business practices and public policies, and provide quality customer service.