The news is still very confusing at this point, CN thinks they have this all done. But there are other groups that think this is a foolish bid that CN has put together. CP had a more sensible bid and was liked by all. Where as CN's bid is classified as very debt burden bid and not well thought out. Amtrak is now concerned about the trackage rights along the line if CN were to win the bid, where as they were assured by CP that they were going to give them. From what I read CN wants to hand off a portion of the line. At this point we will have to wait and see what happens as it is in the hands of the STB which oversees these bids. And will have to review the bid, and listen to all the other parties and make a decision from there. Some how I have a feeling that CN will not get it and that KCS will end up going back to CP's bid.
Either way in the end, this merge will be having itself the first continental Railroad in North America (from Canada to Mexico via US). Though it is ridiculous how CN is advertising on the planned merged as much as possible. Not to mention CN already has a foothold in the US while CP doesn't. So it may depend on who has the advantage in this while the STB is making a result.
Agreed in the end it will come down to the STB's final decision on whether or not CN wins or KCS goes back to CP with their bid. Either way we will get our first full continental railroad.