Union Pacific rail replacement project completed near Phoenix

Union Pacific rail replacement project work near Aztec, Arizona—southwest of Phoenix—has been completed by Union Pacific Railroad’s Engineering Rail Gang 9001. The work is tied to the railroad’s $3.3 billion infrastructure investment planned for 2026.

Also, Union Pacific said in a press release this week that Rail Gang 9001—one of six systemwide groups responsible for yard and mainline rail work—handled the track replacement while keeping customer freight moving, as reported by Progressive Railroading. In addition, the crew installed 8 miles of new rail in 16 days, according to Union Pacific.

Rail Gang 9001 track project near Phoenix

Meanwhile, UP CEO Jim Vena visited the site as the team installed its last 8,890 feet to complete the project. During the visit, he met several members of the system rail gang, including three fathers who have the opportunity to work alongside their sons on the same crew.

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How the rail replacement work was completed?

The rail replacement job required 24 pieces of heavy equipment to remove old rail, mill down the ties, install new tie plates, and lay new rail. The finishing steps included spiking and anchoring to complete the work.

At the same time, with cool winter weather during the installation, the crew used a rail-heating process to bring the steel to its neutral temperature.

Safety milestone: eight years injury free

Separately, the crew recently reached a major safety milestone: eight years injury free, as reported by Railway Track & Structures. “Eight years without an injury says a lot about this team,” said Jason Steiner, system assistant foreperson. “It’s not just about rules — it’s about discipline, communication and watching out for each other.”

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