Train track speed increasing to 70 mph in Hondo

You might have seen railroad crews working on the tracks in the LaCoste area recently as Union Pacific just completed a railroad tie replacement project, replacing about 55,000 ties in south Texas from San Antonio to Spottford. The project started in mid-February. They also announced that the speed limit for trains going through Hondo has been increased to 70 MPH.
We inquired as to what the speed limit is for trains going through LaCoste and Devine, and received the following response:
“We do not disclose speed limits because they vary on a variety of things,” said UP media rep Kristin South. “The Federal Railroad Administration determines track speed based on a number of factors.”
However, Union Pacific submitted the following news release regarding the speed increase in Hondo:
Union Pacific Press Release OMAHA, Neb.– Union Pacific will increase the maximum track speed limit from 60 to 70 mph on the rail line running parallel to Hwy. 90 between Hwy. 173 and County Road 541 in Hondo. Train speeds will increase in weekly five mph increments beginning Feb. 22 until reaching the 70 on March 8.
Union Pacific invested more than $777 million in Texas in 2018 to support the state’s current and future freight transportation needs and to enhance safety and efficiency. More information about Union Pacific and its social, environmental and economic progress is available in its Building America Report.
ABOUT UNION PACIFIC
Union Pacific Railroad is the principal operating company of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP). One of America’s most recognized companies, Union Pacific Railroad connects 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country by rail, providing a critical link in the global supply chain. In the last 10 years, 2008-2017, Union Pacific invested approximately $34 billion in its network and operations to support America’s transportation infrastructure. The railroad’s diversified business mix is classified into its Agricultural Products, Energy, and Industrial and Premium business groups. Union Pacific serves many of the fastest-growing U.S. population centers, operates from all major West Coast and Gulf Coast ports to eastern gateways, connects with Canada’s rail systems and is the only railroad serving all six major Mexico gateways. Union Pacific provides value to its roughly 10,000 customers by delivering products in a safe, reliable, fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible manner.