Union Pacific transfers local service at Eugene Yard to G&W short line

Union Pacific Railroad and Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) yesterday announced plans for Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad Inc. (CORP) to handle local service from UP's Eugene Yard in Oregon.

Owned by G&W, CORP operates 362 miles of track in California and Oregon. The plan to transfer the service to CORP from UP is designed to enhance customer service for local businesses and support regional economic growth, the companies said in a press release. 

The change will allow UP to reduce the number of times a rail car is handled while providing more flexibility and agility for both railroads to meet current customer needs and anticipated growth, UP and G&W officials said.

“Union Pacific can count on CORP to operate their Eugene, Oregon, yard safely and efficiently,” said G&W CEO Michael Miller. “In partnership with Union Pacific, our team is ready to deliver the customer-centric first- and last-mile rail service that customers have come to rely on from G&W railroads so that we can grow together.”

UP and G&W are working with customers to ensure a smooth transition once the plan takes effect, following approval from the Surface Transportation Board.

UP has been in contact with employees impacted by the change, providing information about continued employment opportunities, including potential openings at CORP or other G&W railroads. UP employees who deliver goods over longer distances will continue to work out of Eugene Yard, company officials said.