OREANDA-NEWS. Union Pacific Railroad will strengthen Oregon's transportation infrastructure by investing USD 8.9 million to install new rail on Union Pacific track between North Powder and La Grande. The project is under way now and is scheduled to be completed this month.

The railroad will replace 15 miles of rail to enhance the rail line in eastern Oregon. 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 link businesses with consumers, suppliers and markets across the nation and around the world,” said Scott Moore, Union Pacific vice president - Public Affairs. “In addition to helping move customers' goods more 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.