UP slates $41 million in capex for Oklahoma

Union Pacific Railroad will spend $41 million on infrastructure projects in Oklahoma, the railroad announced yesterday.

About $40 million will be invested to maintain railroad track and $626,000 to maintain bridges in the state, according to a UP press release.

Projects will include replacing 62,431 ties and installing 28,642 tons of ballast on the rail line between Parsons and Big Cabin at a cost of $8 million; and replacing 53,308 ties and installing 24,247 tons of ballast between the Oklahoma state line and Gore at a cost of $7 million.

The planned $41 million capital expenditure in Oklahoma is part of UP's ongoing investment in the state. From 2012 to 2016, the Class I spent more than $236 million to improve its infrastructure in Oklahoma.

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