How many cross ties do the railroads install in a year?

An average of about 50 million. Approximately 80 percent of the cross ties installed in replacements in recent years have been treated-that is, saturated with creosote, zinc chloride, or other preservatives to prevent decay or destruction by insects. The treatment more than doubles the service life of the ties. Bridge timbers, piling, poles, and other woods are also treated in this manner before use.