Metra received approval by the Surface Transportation Board for trackage rights on three Union Pacific lines in Chicago, ensuring commuter rail access remains uninterrupted in spite of lengthy conflicts over service contracts and operating control.

STB Approves Metra Trackage Rights Over Union Pacific Lines

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Metra finalises rights in Union Pacific spat

The board’s decision, issued on September 2, was a response to an application Metra filed in March requesting protection of service. Union Pacific, through purchase-of-service agreement, had operated Metra trains for generations. But in 2023, a court judgment altered that arrangement.

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Metra added that the parties attempted negotiating successor agreements in 2023 and 2024, including attempts by the board at mediation. Additionally, Union Pacific challenged the application and sought dismissal on the ground of jurisdiction.

STB ruling allows commuter rail continuity

The board, in the end, denied Union Pacific’s motion to dismiss and approved the application. Therefore, Metra will be responsible directly for operations on the three Union Pacific lines, protecting everyday service on behalf of thousands of Chicago area commuters.

Furthermore, the ruling demonstrates how regulatory decisions guide commuter rail services at the end of service contracts. The ruling also demonstrates the need for strategy in balancing freight and passenger priorities on busy routes.

The STB approved Metra acquiring trackage rights.

The Surface Transportation Board granted Metra’s petition in order to preserve continuous commuter rail service following Union Pacific’s move to exit its long-time operating agreement.

What was Union Pacific’s role in the case?

Union Pacific operated Metra passenger services through a purchase-of-service agreement for many decades. But following a court ruling, the company questioned Metra’s application and applied for dismissal.

How does the decision affect Chicago commuters?

The ruling allows Metra to run on a routine basis on three Union Pacific lines. Therefore, passengers will feel no disruption in spite of there being no new agreement between the two railroads.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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