Union Pacific and Amtrak Reach Track Usage Deal in Louisiana

Agreement allows Sunset Limited route to continue operating on Union Pacific rails.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:22pm

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Union Pacific Railroad and Amtrak have reached an agreement that will allow Amtrak's Sunset Limited passenger train route to continue operating on Union Pacific's tracks in Louisiana. The deal comes after months of negotiations between the two transportation companies over track usage rights and maintenance responsibilities.

Why it matters

The Sunset Limited is a critical long-distance passenger rail service connecting the West Coast to the Southeast, and this agreement ensures its continued operation through Louisiana. Reliable passenger rail is important for communities along the route and helps reduce reliance on air and car travel.

The details

Under the new agreement, Union Pacific will maintain the tracks used by the Sunset Limited in Louisiana, while Amtrak will pay a fee to Union Pacific for access. The deal also outlines performance standards and on-time requirements that both companies must meet. This resolves a longstanding dispute over track usage that had threatened to disrupt the Sunset Limited service.

  • The agreement was reached on April 1, 2026 after months of negotiations.
  • The Sunset Limited has operated on Union Pacific tracks in Louisiana for decades.

The players

Union Pacific Railroad

A major American freight railroad company that owns and operates rail lines across the western United States.

Amtrak

The national passenger railroad company of the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity service.

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What they’re saying

“We're pleased to have reached an agreement that will allow the Sunset Limited to continue serving communities across Louisiana.”

— Jim Squires, CEO, Union Pacific Railroad

“Maintaining reliable long-distance passenger rail service is critical, and this deal secures the future of the Sunset Limited route.”

— Stephen Gardner, President, Amtrak

What’s next

The new track usage agreement will go into effect immediately, allowing the Sunset Limited to continue operating without disruption.

The takeaway

This deal represents a collaborative solution between Union Pacific and Amtrak to ensure the viability of an important long-distance passenger rail service in the region, underscoring the value of rail transportation and the need for infrastructure investment.