UP slates Arkansas capex projects

Union Pacific Railroad will spend $135 million to upgrade infrastructure in Arkansas this year, the Class I announced last week.

The investment includes $119 million on projects to maintain track and $7 million to maintain bridges, according to a UP press release.

Key projects planned include $20 million to replace 47 miles of rail between Rison and Camden and $14 million to replace 61,005 ties and install 16,838 tons of ballast between Little Rock and Benton.

"Union Pacific's targeted investments fund projects that strengthen our railroad tracks, increase safety and minimize delays as trains travel through communities across Arkansas," said Brenda Mainwaring, UP's vice president – public affairs in the southern region. "Maintaining a healthy railroad is the foundation of our ability to serve customers and communities across the state."

UP plans to spend $1.3 billion on capital expenditures this year.