(Union Pacific issued the following on October 31.)
OMAHA, Neb. — Motorists will spend less time at crossings waiting for trains to pass as a result of $7 million in track improvements underway by Union Pacific Railroad to its Central Iowa line that serves several communities including Jewell, Webster City and Eagle Grove. The track improvements also will create smoother crossing surfaces for motorists along the 56 miles where the projects are taking place between Ames and Goldfield, Iowa.
Upon completion, crews will have removed and installed 55,800 ties, replaced 2,000 feet of rail in a curve near Webster City, spread 22,400 tons of rock ballast to ensure a stable roadbed and replaced the road surfaces at 25 crossings. The road surfaces were renewed between May and early October. Work began on the other projects October 29 and is scheduled to be completed by December 1.
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.
From 2003 to 2007, Union Pacific has invested $587 million for capital projects in Iowa, with $127 million spent in 2007. During 2008, Union Pacific plans to devote $85 million for capital projects in Iowa.