(Union Pacific issued the following on April 15, 2009.)
OMAHA, Neb. — Recent track improvements will allow Union Pacific Railroad to increase the speed of its trains from 30 mph to 50 mph on nearly 13 miles of its rail line between Knapp and near Rusk, Wis.
The increased train speed typically reduces motorist wait time at crossings and improves railroad operating efficiency where Union Pacific has made track improvements.
Train speeds will be increased 10 mph on April 22, 2009, and another 10 mph on April 29, 2009, when the new maximum speed limit of 50 mph goes into effect.
Union Pacific invested $8.4 million last year on track improvements between Altoona and near Rusk, which was instrumental in enabling the speed of the trains between Knapp and near Rusk to be increased. Crews replaced the rail, installed a switch – the track devices that guide a train from one track to another – replaced ties and improved the road surfaces at 36 crossings.