Union Pacific Railroad plans to invest nearly $102 million in 2015 to improve Nebraska’s transportation infrastructure, the company announced on May 22, 2015.
UP’s planned investment in Nebraska covers a range of initiatives, including nearly $90 million to maintain railroad track, nearly $8 million to enhance signal systems and $4 million to maintain or replace bridges in the state.
The railroad will also invest more than $13 million in the rail line between Columbus and Grand Island. The project began May 21, 2015 and is scheduled to be completed the first week of August.
UP will replace 36,200 railroad ties and install 153,000 tons of rock ballast. The project is one of nearly 1,500 UP will complete across its 32,000-mile network this year to help improve train operating efficiency, reduce motorist wait times at crossings and enhance safety.
“Union Pacific helps businesses connect with customers, suppliers and markets across the nation and around the world,” said Donna Kush, UP Vice President of Public Affairs, Northern Region. “In addition to helping move our customers’ goods safely and efficiently, our investments support communities by reducing traffic congestion, facilitating industrial development and promoting economic expansion.”
UP plans to spend $4.2 billion across its network this year, following investments totaling more than $31 billion from 2005-2014. These investments contributed to a 38% decrease in derailments over the last 10 years, the railroad said.