Around The Railroad

RAGBRAI

UP Coordinates Safety for Iowa Cycling Classic

August 18, 2008 | 09:40 a.m. CDT

Several dozen UP employees went above and beyond spreading key safety messages to more than 20,000 RAGBRAI participants cycling across Iowa in late July.

The nationally known 471-mile bicycle ride crossed UP's main line double track 13 times this year. Present at every crossing throughout the entire ride, UP's Dave Huntley says UP volunteers put in up to 12-hour work days making the event a safety success. "There were no incidents at any one of our grade crossings, and it was clear the riders came to expect our presence and were appreciative of our efforts," said Huntley, manager-Operating Practices.

"Dave and everyone working with him delivered a positive image of UP, and actively worked with the communities to deliver Operation Lifesaver messages," said Karol Burchfield, general superintendent-transportation services. "They spent hours helping to plan and coordinate the event, while protecting our crossings throughout its entirety."

Recognizing all those who spent time preparing and helping execute RAGBRAI, Huntley and Burchfield also acknowledged the following individuals:

• Brian Jarrett, senior special agent
• Greg Evenson, manager-train operations
• Bob Resch, manager-public safety
• Brenda Mainwaring, director-public affairs
• Jack Weber, manager-operating practices
• Shawn Engel, manager-train operations
• Ken Blackman, manager-yard operations
• Jim Biggerstaff, manager-track maintenance
• Employee Club 76 and 78 members