(Source: Union Pacific Railroad press release, January 24, 2013)
ROSEVILLE, Calif. — Union Pacific Railroad will strengthen Oregon’s transportation infrastructure by investing approximately $13.2 million in the rail line between Troutdale and The Dalles. The project, which is funded by Union Pacific with no taxpayer dollars, began January 7 and is scheduled to be completed in April.
The railroad will replace nearly 91,000 railroad ties, install more than 30,000 tons of rock ballast and replace five switches. In addition, crews will renew the surfaces at 32 road crossings. The project is one of nearly 1,500 Union Pacific 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 link businesses with consumers, suppliers and markets across the nation and around the world,” said Scott Moore, Union Pacific vice president – Public Affairs, Western Region. “In addition to helping move customers’ goods more safely and efficiently, our investments support communities by reducing traffic congestion, facilitating industrial development and, promoting economic expansion.”
Improved and additional freight rail capacity helps reduce highway congestion and contributes to a cleaner environment. One Union Pacific train can take up to 300 trucks off America’s roads, and Union Pacific can move one ton of freight nearly 500 miles on a single gallon of diesel fuel.