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Union Pacific Pushes for Financial Settlement, Offering Reasonable Rates for Metra’s Use of Rail Lines
Metra urged to conclude years of negotiations
Omaha, Neb., May 21, 2025
Union Pacific Railroad today urged Metra to accept a financial agreement for the use of its rail lines that is fair, reasonable and based on market value. The contract offers Metra flexibility over its financial obligations based on service schedules and the number of trains using Union Pacific’s tracks. Service to the millions of Chicago riders who rely on Metra will not be impacted by Union Pacific.
“For more than a decade, Metra has paid rates that are significantly below commercial market value for the use of Union Pacific’s assets,” said Liisa Stark, Vice President for Public Affairs for Union Pacific. “It is our hope these new rates will resolve the issue without further expensive litigation or regulatory appeals that has no benefit to Metra, Union Pacific nor Chicago taxpayers.”
The new rates will take effect July 1 after the current agreement expires. The market-based rates are consistent with other passenger agreements that Union Pacific has in Illinois, Colorado and California.
For nearly six years, Union Pacific has tried to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with Metra on financial compensation, submitting numerous offers and attempting to mediate a resolution through a Surface Transportation Board process. Most recently, Union Pacific offered to enter binding arbitration with Metra to settle the question, all without success.
“As a private company with a fiscal responsibility to our many stakeholders, including 30,000 employees and thousands of communities spanning our 23-state network, we cannot continue subsidizing Metra’s operations,” said Stark.
The two companies have successfully transferred approximately 800 Union Pacific employees to Metra. The most recent group – train crew – made the move safely and without impact to Chicago commuters in mid-May.
About Union Pacific
Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com.
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Media Contact
Robynn Tysver
402-544-5034
media@up.com