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On Feb. 19, Union Pacific Railroad began moving trains over Burlington Northern Santa Fe's 5.5-mile line in West Memphis, Ark., to improve operating efficiency between eastern Arkansas and southern California.

Each day, UP moves about eight trains on the line — compared with BNSF's one — primarily southbound intermodal trains destined for southern California.

UP plans to spend $2.9 million on track improvements to enable the line to handle additional traffic. The work includes removing and reinstalling more than 4,700 wood ties; spreading 8,800 tons of rock ballast; replacing five turnouts or switches, and surfaces at 11 crossings; and upgrading rail.

UP completed the tie project and laid most of the ballast in late 2003. The remaining work will be completed later this year.