The NRC established its grassroots program in 2012 to give U.S. Members of Congress firsthand exposure to and knowledge of rail industry operations from constituents and other professionals who work in the industry. Since then, the NRC has coordinated dozens of grassroots events at NRC member facilities and construction project sites. These events have helped Members of Congress understand how rail contractors and suppliers positively affect the rail industry and contribute to the local and national economy.

NRC members who host grassroots events report their companies have gained positive publicity, established constructive relationships with their congressional members, and built strong contacts for the NRC and member companies to connect with when advocating for rail industry issues on Capitol Hill.

Hosting a grassroots event requires little advance work by the member company but generates a tremendous amount of goodwill and common ground between railway professionals and Member of Congress.