Union Pacific Railroad (UP) is investing nearly $15 million in its rail line between the Missouri/Iowa border and Trenton, Mo., part of an overall $66 million program in that state, the company announced July 13, 2015. The project began July 9 and is scheduled to be completed by mid-August.
UP will replace nearly 24 miles of rail and install eight switches. In addition, crews will repair the surfaces at 37 road crossings. The project is one of nearly 1,500 that 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, the railroad says.
The railroad plans to invest a total of $66 million in 2015 to improve its Missouri infrastructure. UP’s planned investment covers a range of initiatives: nearly $48 million to maintain railroad track; $8 million to enhance signal systems and $10 million to maintain or replace bridges in the state.
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, UP says.
“Union Pacific helps businesses connect with customers, suppliers and markets across the nation and around the world,” said Donna Kush, UP Vice President-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.”