Rail Operations Update

Announcement Number: CN2021-45
Categories: General Announcements
Posted Date: July 15, 2021

To Our Customers,

Our network continues to be impacted by weather-related challenges. Below is a summary of the network impacts we are currently experiencing.

  • Dry Canyon Bridge Outage (Hotlum, Calif.) - Our Engineering and Operating teams continue to work around the clock to restore service to the bridge. Current estimates have the bridge reopening by September 1. Read more about the repair work underway on the bridge and the nine miles of track damaged by the Lava Fire.
  • Dixie Fire (North of Oroville, Calif.) - This newly ignited fire in Northern California has put our main line at risk. As of this morning, we have ceased train operations due to safety concerns. Water cars continue to move over any assets at risk to minimize potential fire damage.
  • Beckwourth, Calif. Fire - We continue to monitor this massive fire impacting more than 90,000 acres. We have had some railroad tie damage, but bridge structures remain intact. We will continue to position water trucks in the highest risk zones. We are currently able to run trains through this area and will continue working with the U.S. Forest Service on any changes to the fire’s path.

Houston Englewood Yard Transformation Update
We began the second phase of our Englewood Yard transformation last month by installing fiber optics and other hardware as part of the upgrade to the computer system. Of the 64 tracks that are expected to be impacted, we have completed work on 20 of the tracks with minimal impact to shipments processing through this area. These improvements are part of an overall plan to further strengthen Englewood Yard as our flagship processing yard and ensure we can process more cars through Houston than we have done historically — to support business development and projected growth in the South. The project is scheduled to conclude in September.

We remain focused on delivering your freight as quickly as possible and appreciate your patience. If you have any questions, please contact Customer Care & Support at 800-272-8777 or your Union Pacific representative.

Medium Retina | Rail Operations Update July 15 2021