Union Pacific earns 'Go Further' award from Ford, upgrades Kansas line

Union Pacific Railroad yesterday announced it recently received a 2012 "Go Further" award from Ford Motor Co. The automaker honored 35 of its global suppliers and service providers for their "continuous pursuit of excellence in the face of unforeseen business challenges," according to a press release.

Ford recognized UP for its "extraordinary plant launch support, and for being agile and willing to adjust to [our] changing business requirements," Ford officials said. The Class I provides transportation and logistics services for the automaker.

"We are committed to fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation, providing the greatest efficiency and value to our customers," said Linda Brandl, UP's vice president and general manager-automotive.

UP serves a number of customers in the finished vehicle and production/aftermarket parts sectors. The railroad directly accesses five finished vehicle assembly plants, and operates or accesses more than 40 vehicle distribution centers.

Meanwhile, UP also announced it's started a $20 million project to upgrade a line between Paola and Coffeyville, Kan.

The work, which began in late July and is slated for completion by October's end, includes replacing 136,500 ties, installing 68,700 tons of ballast and renewing surfaces at 219 crossings.