Freight Class I UP opens 9 miles of second main to support Southern California intermodal service

UP opens 9 miles of second main to support Southern California intermodal service

By Trains Staff | August 29, 2025

The extra capacity comes as UP launches faster domestic intermodal service between the Inland Empire and Chicago

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Union Pacific SD70ACe No. 8351 is on the point of a domestic stack train at the railroad’s Inland Empire Intermodal Terminal in Southern California. UP

OMAHA, Neb. — Union Pacific has opened a nine-mile stretch of second main track in Southern California to support premium intermodal service out of its Inland Empire Intermodal Terminal at West Colton Yard.

The work, between South Fontana and Bon View, Calif., on the Alhambra Subdivision, included installation of double track, rebuilding two bridges and a culvert, and improving sidings.

“Adding track increased velocity and network fluidity for freight entering Inland Empire Intermodal Terminal,” says Paul Ivey, senior manager of track and civil construction. “It’s a key part of Union Pacific’s intermodal facilities expansion plan in the L.A. area.”

Earlier this month UP launched new truck-competitive Z-train service between the Inland Empire terminal and the Global 2 terminal in Northlake, Ill., outside Chicago. The new service cuts transit time by 20%, UP says.

“By delivering consistent service for our customers, we’re encouraging continued growth in the region,” said David Pratt, senior manager of resource planning.

Union Pacific has opened a nine-mile stretch of double track near its Inland Empire Intermodal Terminal in Southern California. UP
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