OREANDA-NEWS.  Union Pacific Railroad will strengthen Nebraska's and Iowa's transportation infrastructures by investing nearly USD 4.5 million in the rail line between Omaha, Neb., and near Missouri Valley, Iowa. The project, funded entirely by Union Pacific without taxpayer dollars, began March 5 and is scheduled to be completed by the end of May.

The railroad will replace 31,700 concrete railroad ties and install 16,670 tons of rock ballast. In addition, crews will renew the surfaces at 29 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 businesses connect with consumers, suppliers and markets across the nation and around the world," said Donna Kush, Union Pacific vice president - Public Affairs, Northern Region. "In addition to helping move our customers' goods 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.