Track Improvements to Union Pacific’s East/West Wyoming Line will Result in Trains Operating More Efficiently and Smoother Drives for Motorists

Motorists will spend less time at crossings waiting for trains to pass as a result of $3.9 million in track improvements made by Union Pacific Railroad to its East/West Wyoming line. The track improvements also will create smoother crossing surfaces for motorists and allow trains to operate more efficiently on the route between Bitter Creek, Wyo., about 45 miles east of Rock Springs, and Green River, Wyo.

When the project is complete, crews will have removed wooden ties and installed 29,300 ties, spread 11,700 tons of rock ballast to ensure a stable roadbed and replaced the road surfaces at 32 crossings. Work began on these projects October 16 and is scheduled to be completed by November 5.

During 2008, Union Pacific plans to invest a total of $3.1 billion for capital projects that include $1.6 billion earmarked to strengthen the track infrastructure across its more than 32,300-mile system. This extensive investment in the railroad’s track helps ensure Union Pacific has the ability to offer quality, safe and cost-effective service to meet its customers’ current and future transportation needs.

Since 2003, Union Pacific has invested $508 million for capital projects in Wyoming, with $138 million spent in 2007.