OREANDA-NEWS. Union Pacific Railroad will strengthen Wyoming's transportation infrastructure investing $13.5 million in the rail line between Laramie and near Hanna. The project, funded entirely by Union Pacific without taxpayer dollars, began July 16 and is scheduled to be completed by mid-September.

The railroad will replace 74,000 railroad ties, install 23,000 tons of rock ballast and replace five miles of rail in various curves. In addition, crews will repair the surfaces at 21 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."

The railroad plans to invest more than $51.5 million in 2015 to improve Wyoming's transportation infrastructure. Union Pacific's planned investment covers a range of initiatives: nearly $48 million to maintain railroad track, $3 million to enhance signal systems and nearly $700,000 to maintain or replace bridges in the state.

Union Pacific plans to spend $4.2 billion across its network this year, following investments totaling more than $31 billion from 2005-2014. These investments contributed to a 38 percent decrease in derailments over the last 10 years.