Union Pacific

(Union Pacific Photograph)

UP’s Rocker Issues ‘Status of the Railroad’ Report

Despite severe winter weather affecting many areas of Union Pacific’s (UP) 23-state network this year—including a “once-in-a-lifetime winter storm hitting Texas and Louisiana’s Gulf Coast—its Executive Vice President-Marketing and Sales Kenny Rocker

Class I Briefs: BNSF, UP, CPKC

BNSF responds to winter weather challenges in the north. Also, Union Pacific (UP) celebrates the first day of construction of Viterra’s new state-of-the-art grain facility in Dalhart, Texas; and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) announces that the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) has accepted its new share repurchase program.

BRG Celebrates 40 Years

OmniTRAX, an affiliate of The Broe Group, recently commemorated the 40th anniversary of its Texas rail division, Brownsville and Rio Grande International Railway (BRG), at a ceremony of economic and community partners in Brownsville, Texas.

“Changing out a railroad bridge takes a LOT of planning and coordination, especially when the structure is on one of the busiest freight rail corridors in the country,” BNSF reported via social media. Over two recent weekends, contractor and BNSF crews did just that. (BNSF Photograph)

Class I Briefs: BNSF, UP

BNSF and contractor Kraemer North America change out a bridge on one of the busiest freight corridors in the country. Also, Union Pacific (UP) honors more than 300 train dispatchers for their safety contributions.

From Left: Union Pacific’s Engineering Director-Signal Construction Russell Parris and Track Inspector Courtland Ferchaud both earned college degrees through the railroad’s Educational Assistance Program in 2024. (UP Photographs)

Class I Briefs: UP, NS, CSX

Union Pacific (UP) in 2024 invested more than $1 million in free college tuition for employees. Also, Norfolk Southern’s (NS) Elkhart Yard helps to increase fluidity and add capacity; and CSX honors electrician Dale Reynolds for 45-plus years of service.

STB Acts on Long-Standing Proceedings

Consistent with his objective to “increase transparency at the agency,” Surface Transportation Board (STB) Chairman Patrick Fuchs on Feb. 21 provided an update on recent actions to “facilitate and expedite resolution” of several long-standing Board proceedings.

UP’s Pacific Northwest craft professionals celebrate their service unit win: the esteemed Safety Bell, presented annually to the Transportation service unit with the best overall safety record. (UP Photograph)

Class I Briefs: UP, CSX

Union Pacific’s (UP) Pacific Northwest team earns the railroad’s esteemed Safety Bell. Also, CSX donates $250,000 to Nemours to expand access to pediatric behavioral health services.

“This state-of-the-art, fully accessible building highlights our dedication to operational excellence and employee wellness,” CPKC said of its new Monterrey, Mexico, operations center. (Screen Grab from CPKC Video)

Class I Briefs: CPKC, UP, CN

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) opens a new operations center in Monterrey, Mexico. Also, Union Pacific (UP) and Texas Operation Lifesaver team on rail safety training; and CN is officially recertified as a Responsible Care® Partner.

“All aboard! 🚂 Union Pacific unveiled Locomotive No. 1616, honoring President Lincoln’s legacy of connecting the nation and unleashing economic innovation,” UP reported via social media on Feb. 17, Presidents Day. (UP Image)

UP 1616 to Honor President Lincoln

Union Pacific’s (UP) newest commemorative locomotive will pay tribute to America’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, who created the railroad and connected the nation through the transcontinental railroad, UP reported Feb. 17, Presidents Day.