(Source: Union Pacific press release, June 6, 2013)
SPRING, Texas Recent track improvements will allow Union Pacific Railroad to increase the speed of its trains from 40 mph to 49 mph on approximately 120 miles of its rail line between San Antonio and Odem, Texas.
Increased train speeds typically reduce motorist wait time at crossings, enhance safety and help Union Pacific more efficiently deliver the goods American businesses and families use daily. The U.S. freight rail network is the safest, most productive and cost efficient freight rail system in the world.
Train speeds will be increased five mph starting June 10 and another four mph June 17, when the new maximum speed limit of 49 mph goes into effect. Union Pacific meets the Federal Railroad Administration inspection, maintenance and engineering standards required to implement this speed increase.
In 2012, Union Pacific invested nearly $24 million on track improvements between San Antonio and Odem, Texas. Crews replaced 1.21 miles of rail and more than 211,000 ties. Improvements were also made to road surfaces at 168 road crossings and 79,895 tons of rock ballast were spread to provide a stable roadbed. Work was completed at the end of December.