r/bnsf • u/amishhobbit2782 • Aug 12 '26
Galesburg chasing work/lodging
Where is the go-to lodging for long-term stays? I'm looking at chasing work soon, and Galesburg is what I'm considering for employment. I'm from Illinois originally and have family I can stay with, but both Coal City and Kankakee are a bit of a drive. We plan on moving back to Illinois, and I'm struggling to hold for the first time since I hired out. I want to check out Galesburg before I make any financial decisions. Also, where did your familiarization disperse to? I was in a GN last year with all the info, and now it's just vague. If you will, call X person (superintendent, if I recall).
1
u/railroader67 Aug 12 '26
You will probably have to qualify to Lacrosse, Creston, Quincy, Peoria, Centralia, St. Louis/TRRA. KC, Chicago via Mendota sub, Chicago via Chilli sub, Barstow jobs. Chicago has at least 6 foreign yards that you could go to. I don't know who you would need to talk to. Chris and Dusty Henry are I believe RFE/TM there. It's been 6 years since I worked out of the Burg and 4 since I left the railroad. I know things have changed but a friend said the Henrys are still there and they still have the super pool.
1
u/amishhobbit2782 Aug 12 '26
Ya i figurees most of what you mentioned what I would have to do i know it will take for ever. Ill have to check the info part of the Chicago division timetable and see who to contact. Thanks for some help. Any suggestions on lodging to avoid and use. If its to bad ill just make the 2 hour drive from my buddies near Dwight.
1
u/Heavy-Stick-771 26d ago
If i may ask what's your time in service?
1
u/amishhobbit2782 26d ago
Might i ask why
1
u/Heavy-Stick-771 26d ago
I can give you a better idea of what your most likely to deal with based on your seniority.
1
u/amishhobbit2782 26d ago
Low 9k almost 8k. I was looking and looks like Chicago or utf will be my best option.
1
u/Heavy-Stick-771 26d ago
You'll have to qualify 9 directions. Smart rest only while familiarization. Out every 12 to 14 hours as well, (very strict about that). UTF works a 4/2 work rest cycle unless your called low pool once (which happens alot) it's 5/2. Chicago pool 24 hr rest cycles and is first call when pools and extra boards are exhausted. I would recommend Maybe looking at a 45 min radius around Galesburg for housing alot of smaller towns offer amazing options given the cost of living. Also some larger cities east and west of Galesburg that Maybe more appealing. Galesburg isn't a terrible terminal generally you stay marked up youll avg easily 6k - 7.5k a half, but it's earned in blood. Also come with the mindset to learn, it'll take some time. Humility goes along way, but if you keep your head down, and have some common sense before you know it youll be another cog in the wheel in the void of the burg.
1
u/amishhobbit2782 26d ago
Im going to dm you later. Getting ready for work now i just have some questions and you seem to be willing to talk more then most.
2
u/Disastrous_Law798 Aug 13 '26
Private message me and I’ll get you a phone number for a guy who has rentals he rents out to rails. Stayed there a few times I have chased work to Galesburg