Ridin' the Rails

A large acquisition in the transport industry

North American Rail Solutions, through its Fort Worth, TX-based subsidiary American Track, announced June 26 that it has acquired Rapid Track.

Based in Tyrone, GA, Rapid Track provides rail maintenance and construction services, primarily for industrial and shortline customers in the Southeast US. Rapid Track was established in 1994 by Kirby Wallace and Gail Shockley Wallace, and today is managed by Shannon and Brandi Shockley. North American Rail Solutions is one of the largest providers of industrial rail inspection, construction, maintenance, terminal and support services in North America.

When asked about this acquisition, Tom Lucario, CEO for North American Rail Solutions, stated: "Rapid Track has been a strong provider of rail services in the Georgia area for several decades. The Southeast is a critical area for American Track and we felt that Shannon and Brandi had a team that was an excellent match for the American Track culture. We knew they would be a great addition."

Shannon Shockley, President and owner of Rapid Track commented: "Rapid Track is our family business and our life's work. We were only interested in joining with a great company that could help us grow and create lasting opportunities for ourselves and our employees. We know American Track will be that place and we are excited about the future with North American Rail Solutions."