Rio Grande Pacific Corp. today announced its enthusiastic support for the proposed merger between Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern Corporation.
The merger will link more than 50,000 route miles of track across 43 states, reshaping the national logistics landscape. As a short line and regional rail operator, Rio Grande Pacific Corporation views the merger as a positive step toward a more efficient and competitive domestic freight rail system.
“The proposed merger represents a reasoned and logical step forward for the national rail system,” Richard Bertel, chairman and CEO of Rio Grande Pacific, said. “The combined network should unlock efficiencies that benefit all stakeholders—from large and small shippers, communities and consumers, and railroads and logistics providers. Rio Grande Pacific looks forward to collaborating with the newly combined railroad to help our shippers capitalize on new routing options, new potential markets and growing service enhancements.
“We’ve long advocated for greater operational alignment in the freight rail industry,” Bertel added. “Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern as one, will deliver world class safety cultures, more reliable service, and new opportunities for regional railroads like ours to contribute to a dynamic national freight solution.”
Rio Grande Pacific wants early regulatory approval of the merger, confident that the first truly Transcontinental Railroad will deliver the highest industry standards of safety, service, and innovation, while preserving the skilled workforce that powers the industry.
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