Recent track improvements will allow Union Pacific to increase the speed of its trains in two eastern Nebraska communities, reducing motorist wait time at crossings. In Columbus, Neb., the speed will increase from 50 mph to 70 mph and in Grand Island the speed will increase from 60 mph to 70 mph. 

The increased train speed improves railroad operating efficiency where Union Pacific has made track improvements.

Train speeds will be increased 10 mph on October 1, 2010, and another 10 mph on October 22, 2010, when the new maximum speed limit of 70 mph goes into effect in Columbus. In Grand Island the speed will increase 10 mph on October 1, when the new maximum speed limit of 70 mph goes into effect.  

Union Pacific invested more than $26 million in track improvements to its line between Schuyler, Neb., through Columbus to Duncan, Neb., last year, which was instrumental in enabling the speed of the trains to be increased in Columbus. More than $20 million in track improvements were made this year on track between Grand Island and Gibbon, Neb.