UP announces capex plans for New Mexico

Union Pacific Railroad's 2017 capital expenditures plan includes $23 million worth of infrastructure projects in New Mexico, the Class I announced Monday.

Investments include $22 million to maintain track and $1 million in other improvements across the state, according to a UP press release.

Projects include $14 million to replace 116,318 ties and install 55,470 tons of ballast on the line between Carrizozo and Fort Bliss; and $1.6 million to replace 10,615 ties and install 3,000 tons of ballast on the line across Lordsburg.

"Union Pacific's targeted investments fund projects that strengthen our railroad tracks, increase safety and minimize delays as trains travel through communities across New Mexico," said Brenda Mainwaring, vice president-public affairs.

From 2012 to 2016, UP spent more than $105 million on infrastructure projects in New Mexico. The Class I plans to spend $3.1 billion across its network this year.