Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern Merger: ASLRRA’s Rail Impact in the US

Introduction

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) has announced its intention to participate in the Surface Transportation Board’s review of the proposed merger between Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern Railway.

ASLRRA’s Involvement

ASLRRA will actively assess the potential effects of the proposed merger on smaller railroads and their customers. The association’s involvement aims to ensure that the transaction, as presented by Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern Railway to the Surface Transportation Board, or as conditionally approved, adequately addresses any impacts on smaller railroads and their customers.

Key Areas of Focus

ASLRRA’s participation will specifically focus on several key areas:

• Short line carload traffic growth and enhanced Class I/short line interchange efficiencies.
• Frequent and reliable railroad service post-transaction.
• Competition across the overall network.

Company Summary

American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA): The ASLRRA is an association representing the interests of short line and regional railroads in North America.

Union Pacific Railroad: A major Class I railroad operating in the western United States.

Norfolk Southern Railway: A major Class I railroad operating in the eastern United States.

Surface Transportation Board: A federal board responsible for the economic regulation of various modes of surface transportation, including railroads.

Conclusion

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association is participating in the Surface Transportation Board’s review of the Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern Railway merger to evaluate its effects on smaller railroads and their customers, aiming to support traffic growth, service reliability, and competition.