Clearing the way for safe, reliable rail

Phillip Mills has seen more of NS’ network than most since starting in 2008. As a supervisor of clearance inspections, he travels roughly 5,000 miles of track every year across NS’ 22-state network, scanning for anything that could obstruct train movement.

No two days are the same, and every mile matters.

What he’s looking for

Phillip’s job is to identify anything that penetrates NS’ standard clearance envelope, which is defined as 18 feet wide (9 feet from either side of the track centerline) by 23 feet high from the track. On certain tracks, that envelope expands up to 40 feet wide depending on the types of loads expected.

He uses a specialized high-rail clearance truck outfitted with advanced measurement systems that capture track geometry and clearance data in real time. These systems help detect potential obstructions of the right-of-way, such as tunnels, bridge components or rock cuts.

“If there is an obstruction, then I record it, edit the data and upload it into the system,” Phillip said. “That helps others determine if a dimensional load can safely move through a territory.”

Clearance truck technology measures with precision across NS’ network (left and right), while tunnel inspections in Newark, New Jersey ensure safe passage for our trains (center).

He also measures track centers — the distance between the centerlines of two parallel tracks — providing critical data for our commercial and operations teams.

“I keep a rolling record of our track dimensions and obstructions. It’s about keeping things precise, clear and safe.”

A systemwide sweep

Phillip completes a full sweep of NS’ more than 19,000 miles of track every three years. The job requires constant coordination with track supervisors and dispatchers to secure track time and ensure safe passage.

“I connect with each track supervisor’s office; they know their territories,” he said. “They help me arrange the track time, and we go out and get the measurements.”

His travels give him a rare view of NS’ full footprint. “I’ve been through every tunnel and over every bridge,” Phillip added. “Some of the places I get to see, like waterfalls, remote stretches of track and scenic lookouts, only railroaders ever see.”

Contour data from the Coosa Mountain Tunnel in Alabama, paired with the live view from NS’ clearance truck during inspection.

Pride in the work

After 17 years with NS, Phillip still finds motivation in the goals he sets for himself each year. He carefully plans which territories to cover and tracks how many miles he inspects. Meeting those goals gives him a real sense of accomplishment, and it’s the people and purpose that keep him going.

“I get to work with a different person every day, and I’ve met so many great railroaders across our system,” he said. “It’s about making sure everything is clear, so we avoid accidents, bridge strikes or worse.

For Phillip, those miles aren’t just measurements. Every one of them reflects the pride he takes in helping keep NS safe and efficient.

Crossing the Wabash Bridge over the Mississippi River, connecting Hannibal, Missouri, and Pike County, Illinois.