(Source: Union Pacific press release, April 5, 2017)
ROSEVILLE, Calif. — Union Pacific is boosting safety and efficiency with an approximately $180 million infrastructure investment in California this year. Projects funded by Union Pacific benefit California’s overall transportation infrastructure without taxpayer funds.
Union Pacific’s investment plan funds a range of initiatives: $149.6 million to maintain railroad track and $20.7 million to maintain bridges in the state. Key projects planned this year include:
• $12.5 million investment in the rail line between Visalia and Delano to replace 28 miles of rail.
• $7.9 million investment in the rail line north of Winterhaven, California, to replace 18 miles of rail.
• $9.1 million investment in the West Colton Bowl Track project.
“Union Pacific’s targeted investments fund projects that strengthen our railroad tracks, increase safety and minimize delays as trains travel through communities across California,” said Wes Lujan, Union Pacific vice president – Public Affairs, Western Region. “Maintaining a healthy railroad is the foundation of our ability to serve customers and communities across the state.”
This year’s planned $180 million capital expenditure in California is part of an ongoing investment strategy. From 2012 to 2016, Union Pacific invested more than $976 million strengthening California’s transportation infrastructure.
Union Pacific plans to spend $3.1 billion across its network this year. The company has invested $51 billion since 2000, contributing to a 40 percent decrease in derailments during the same time frame.