Union Pacific recently said it plans to invest $72 million in 2015 to improve transportation infrastructure in Louisiana.
The company said its multi-million dollar investment will increase rail operating efficiency and also enhance employee, community and customer safety.
Many freight railroads operate on track built and maintained without taxpayer funds, Union Pacific noted. The company said its private investments sustain jobs and ensure the company meets growing demand for products used in the American economy.
Union Pacific’s planned investment covers a range of initiatives: $67 million to maintain railroad track, $1million to enhance signal systems and $2 million to maintain or replace bridges in the state. Key projects planned this year include:
- $11 million investment in the rail line between Columbia and Pollock to replace 22 miles of rail and repair the surfaces at 21 road crossings.
- $8 million investment in the rail line between Fordoche and Morrow to replace 22 miles of rail and repair the surfaces at 12 road crossings.
This year’s planned $72 million capital expenditure in Louisiana is part of an ongoing investment strategy. From 2010 to 2014 Union Pacific invested more than $568 million strengthening Louisiana’s transportation infrastructure.
