Recent track improvements will allow Union Pacific Railroad to increase the speed of its trains in several central Kansas communities, reducing motorist’s wait time at crossings.
The speed will increase from 25 mph to 49 mph across Union Pacific’s 20-mile line between Whitewater and Wichita, Kansas.
The increased train speed improves railroad operating efficiency where Union Pacific has made track improvements.
Train speeds will be increased by 5mph each week beginning September 1, 2011 and 4mph on September 22, 2011, when the new maximum speed limit of 49 mph is reached.
Union Pacific is investing more than $3 million in track improvements to the line this year.
Union Pacific plans to invest approximately $3.3 billion in capital during 2011, which supports America’s current and future freight transportation needs and enhances the safety and efficiency of the railroad’s 32,000-mile network.
