8-KMaterial AgreementsFinancial EventsExhibits & Filings

NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORP 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Mar 5, 2019)

Filed March 5, 2019For Securities:NSC

Summary

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) has entered into definitive agreements to construct and lease a new corporate headquarters building in Atlanta, Georgia. This strategic move aims to consolidate the company's existing offices in Norfolk, Virginia, and Atlanta into a single, centralized location. The estimated construction cost for the new building is capped at $550 million. This initiative is part of a broader plan to enhance operational efficiency and potentially reduce long-term real estate costs by bringing key personnel and functions under one roof. The construction is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2019 and is projected for completion by the third quarter of 2021. Following construction, NSC's subsidiary, Norfolk Southern Railway Company (NSRC), will lease the building for an initial five-year term, with options to extend, purchase, or arrange a sale. Investors should monitor the progress of this significant capital expenditure and its impact on future operating expenses and potential asset utilization.

Key Highlights

  • 1NSC is consolidating its corporate offices into a new, single headquarters building in Atlanta, Georgia.
  • 2The construction cost for the new building is expected to not exceed $550 million.
  • 3The project involves agreements for construction, leasing, and participation with BA Leasing BSC, LLC (BAL).
  • 4Norfolk Southern Railway Company (NSRC) will act as the construction agent for the project.
  • 5Construction is scheduled to begin in Q1 2019 and conclude in Q3 2021.
  • 6NSRC will lease the building for an initial five-year term, with options to extend, purchase, or facilitate a sale.
  • 7The company's CEO's office in Norfolk, VA will be relocated to Atlanta.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary purpose is to construct and lease a new corporate headquarters building in Atlanta, Georgia, consolidating the company's existing offices from Norfolk, Virginia, and Atlanta into a single location.

The cost of construction for the new building is expected to not exceed $550 million.

Construction is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2019 and be completed in the third quarter of 2021.

Upon completion, Norfolk Southern Railway Company (NSRC) will lease the building for a five-year term and will be responsible for monthly rent, all operating costs (including property taxes, insurance, and utilities), and repair costs.

At least 180 days before the end of the initial five-year lease term, NSC must choose to either extend the lease for another five years (with consent), purchase the building, or arrange for a third-party sale of the building.