UP announces Kansas infrastructure projects

Union Pacific Railroad will pursue $57 million worth of infrastructure projects in Kansas this year, the Class I announced yesterday.

UP's plan includes investing $43 million to maintain railroad track and $12 million to maintain bridges, according to a UP press release.

Key projects planned this year include $13 million to replace 102,740 ties and install 53,137 tons of rock ballast on the rail line between Topeka and Herington; and $4.8 million to replace 33,828 ties and install 327 tons of rock ballast on the line between Junction City and Salina.

UP's "targeted investments" fund projects designed to strengthen the railroad's track, increase safety and minimize delays as trains move through cities and towns, said Donna Kush, vice president-public affairs, northern region.

From 2012 to 2016, UP spent more than $425 million on projects to improve transportation infrastructure in Kansas.