A letter from Ed Dickens • Feb. 4th, 2019
Hello Friends,
Thank you for the patience and understanding as we work through the many very important details involving the release of the schedule. As we plan the operations for this monumental year, we continue to evaluate all network impacts, such as track, bridge, yard and other crucial maintenance projects, to ensure we do not have any conflicts we can’t easily manage with a 605-ton Big Boy.
With this massive network, there is always work occurring somewhere on the system. In many cases there are large system gangs roving about, doing work like replacing ties, rail, undercutting, crossing panels, bridge approach work, ballast... maintaining a rail network for this size is a monumental task. You name a type of maintenance, it is happening at any given time on the Union Pacific.
When we officially release the schedule, it must be something we can execute flawlessly. We are honored to have the support that we do. What we do touches all departments at Union Pacific. Our planning over the years has only improved, as our “on-time” steam locomotive performance is something we take personally. We always want to meet the expectations that were established when we released the schedule. Having a solid plan keeps changes to an absolute minimum, and reduces the impacts our trips will have for not only your planning, but also the planning that affects our network.
It’s very important to bear in mind that the primary purpose of the heritage steam operation is public relations. The primary focus and existence for that well-kept “steel freeway” that we are very fortunate to operate steam on is to provide excellent customer service.
Thank you for reading this message, please share it with your friends and family. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we plan this monumental travel year for UP Steam.
Sincerely,
Ed Dickens and crew
Source: Union Pacific Steam Club
Gary: Rail-fan
