Trains are going faster in Salt Lake

Union Pacific Railroad has increased the speed limit, starting Friday, for trains traveling through several rail crossings in Salt Lake City from 10 mph to 40 mph.

The following crossings will be affected: 1800 North, 300 North, 400 North, 600 West, 800 West, 900 West, 1000 West and 200 South.

The speeds are being increased because of recent work to straighten a curved section of rail line known as Grant Tower.

"The Grant Tower realignment will enable Union Pacific trains to pass through downtown Salt Lake City at 40 mph, rather than 10 mph, enhancing the fluidity of the railroad and improving efficiency and convenience for Salt Lake City residents," said Scott Moore, vice president for the rail company's Western Region.

Union Pacific said in a statement that it has increased speeds in several communities after track improvements and found the increased speeds also improved traffic flow over rail crossings. -->

The realigned rail curves allow Union Pacific to abandon use of the 900 South line. The final step for completion of the Grant Tower project will be the transfer of the 900 South railway line property from Union Pacific to Salt Lake City.

Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson, City Councilman Van Turner and Union Pacific will host a community celebration of the ceasing of rail operations on the 900 South rail line from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Sorenson Multicultural Center, 855 W. California Ave.

Free food and refreshments will be provided, and the public is invited to attend.