By Nebraska Chamber
LINCOLN, Neb. – As Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern prepare to refile their merger application with the Surface Transportation Board on April 30, Matt Williams, Interim President of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, today expressed support for the proposal, and the importance of evaluating it for long-term economic competitiveness, system efficiency and customer outcomes.
“As a Nebraska-based company with deep roots in our state, Union Pacific plays a significant role in supporting jobs, investment and economic activity across Nebraska,” Williams said.
“This proposal builds on that foundation by strengthening the connectivity and performance of the broader national freight network. A more seamless, connected rail network has the potential to enhance reliability, reduce friction in the movement of goods and improve service for businesses that depend on rail,” Williams added. “For many industries, efficient freight movement is a key determinant in where they invest and how they grow.”
The proposed merger would expand single-line service opportunities across a broader national footprint, reducing reliance on interline transfers while opening new routing options that better align with evolving supply chain demands. These changes are expected to improve transit times, increase service flexibility and expand access to competitive freight options.
“From a business perspective, the priority is a logistics system that delivers consistency, flexibility and performance,” Williams said. “Enhancements that strengthen connectivity and reliability support growth across manufacturing, agriculture, energy and other sectors.”
Williams noted that infrastructure proposals of this scale warrant a clear, fact-based review, while recognizing the importance of continued investment in a high-performing national freight system.
“A strong and integrated rail network is foundational to Nebraska and the broader U.S. economy,” Williams said. “This proposal represents a meaningful opportunity to improve service, expand access and strengthen the system that businesses rely on every day.”