Union Pacific lays off 230 in Nebraska
Posted by Lou on Jan 9, 2009
The nation’s economic slowdown has put the brakes on Union Pacific’s railroad freight business, forcing layoffs across the nation and, now, in North Platte.
Chad Wilbourn is UP’s general superintendent for the North Platte service area, and he delivered the news on Thursday. About 230 people will be furloughed until business improves and they can be called back to work.
In November, UP announced that it had laid off or cut hours for about 1,500 engineers and conductors since January 2007.
A Union Pacific (nyse: UNP – news – people ) spokesman in Omaha declined on Friday to comment specifically on any of the layoffs.
“While Union Pacific does not disclose furlough numbers, the economy is affecting all the railroads,” said Tom Lange, director of corporate communications.
“Putting people on furlough is a difficult yet necessary decision in response to market conditions and for the long-term viability of the company. Many of those on furlough will have a chance to be called back when market conditions improve.”
Union Pacific has 21,000 engineers and conductors. It operates 32,400 miles of track in 23 states from the Midwest to the West and Gulf coasts.
Source: Forbes.com
Railfax Report
Posted by Lou on Dec 31, 2008
