Railway Chiefs Apologize For Delays

Railway executives on Monday apologized for traffic congestion and delays that have caused grain to pile up in the Midwest, clogged California ports and stalled production at Northwest lumber yards.

But they told grain and feed industry leaders that many of the problems were beyond their control. They pledged to work together to speed rail deliveries.

“It is a humbling event not to deliver the system we promised,” said Philip E. Weaver, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp.’s vice president.

Weaver and Drew Collier, a Union Pacific’s vice president, were among several railroad executives who met with the National Grain and Feed Association. A record corn harvest has caused grain elevators to overflow, and widespread spoilage has been reported.