Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern strengthen merger proposal with new customer protection commitments

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have filed additional voluntary commitments with the U.S. Surface Transportation Board, adding new customer protection measures to their $85 billion merger proposal. The filings expand gateway pricing to cover twice as many shipments, introduce fixed‑price agreements, preserve "three‑to‑two" shipper options, and include service protections that would allow customers temporary access to alternative rail services if performance declines during integration.

Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena said the measures are intended to give customers faster, more reliable service from day one, while Norfolk Southern President and CEO Mark George highlighted the merger’s public benefits, including a stronger supply chain, reduced road wear, improved safety, lower emissions and high‑paying union jobs. Canadian National, which had opposed the deal, withdrew its objection in exchange for expanded access to Union Pacific’s network in the Midwest and South. The companies expect the merger to close in mid‑2027 as the STB continues its review.