Timeline Set for UP-NS Merger Decision

To Our Customers,

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) removed our proceeding from abeyance and adopted a procedural schedule. The timeline is consistent with the 12-month statutory schedule we have been communicating. We now have a firm deadline for final briefs on the calendar and certainty as we move into the merits phase of the review. 

Following is the anticipated timeline:

• Sept 4, 2026, Notices of Intent to Participate due.
• Nov 18, 2026, Comments due.
• Dec 3, 2026, Preliminary DOJ / USDOT comments due.
• Feb 16, 2027, Responses to comments due.
• After Mar 29 (date TBD), Public hearing. The Board will hold it before final briefs are due, with details in a later decision.
• May 28, 2027, Final briefs due.
• After May 28 (date TBD), Close of the record.
• Within 90 days of record close, STB final decision.

The close of the record will be decided on a different date. This allows the STB to provide time to collect any final evidence that it needs. It is a practical step, and not a change to the statutory timeline.

Nothing here changes our focus in the meantime. Running the railroad is our top priority, and we are committed to delivering the service you expect. 

Sincerely,

Kenny Rocker
Executive Vice President, Marketing & Sales

You can get the latest official news, updates and perspectives on the Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern combination here: www.up-nstranscontinental.com