“This is about whether the United States is serious about competing in a global economy where speed, reliability, and scale matter,” said Heath Mello, President & CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber. “Since the beginning, Union Pacific and Omaha have grown together, with a shared history rooted in building connections that power our economy. Today as always, Omaha stands firmly behind Union Pacific as they make their biggest move yet that will strengthen our supply chains, support business growth, and will ultimately benefit all Americans.”

“A more seamless, connected rail network has the potential to enhance reliability, reduce friction in the movement of goods, and improve service for businesses that depend on rail,” Williams said. “For many industries, efficient freight movement is a key determinant in where they invest and how they grow.”

"Our state's farmers contribute more than $116 billion annually to Wisconsin's economy. Railroads handle nearly 40 percent of U.S. grain exports — serving as a critical link in moving products from farm to market. Under the proposed merger, the combined UP-NS network could reduce shipping times, streamline service, and improve efficiency, delivering meaningful cost savings to farmers across the state."

“The proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern has the potential to improve rail connectivity, increase reliability and spur efficiency by creating a more integrated network with fewer interchanges and better coordination in both operations and future investments in the rail network.”

“[We are] writing to express our strong support... We believe that the proposed merger will enhance competition and yield significant benefits for Union Pacific customers like us."

“The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce encourages the Surface Transportation Board to consider the broad economic, environmental and logistical advantages of this merger. We believe this partnership will create a more competitive, connected and forward-looking rail system—one that strengthens American industry and benefits communities like ours that depend on strong transportation networks.”

“This merger changes everything. For the first time, America will have uninterrupted coast-to-coast rail service connecting 50,000 route miles across 43 states and linking more than 100 major ports. This is not just a step forward; it's a transformational leap toward a truly unified national freight system.”

“The proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger offers an opportunity to ensure long-term reliability for our rail infrastructure and deliver long-term benefits for our manufacturers and our business community at large. The merger promises faster, more dependable service, reduced congestion and expanded market reach for our businesses. It also means continued investment in rail infrastructure that will lead to enhanced safety, job creation and ensuring the Columbus community is in a position to grow and succeed economically in an increasingly competitive economic environment.”

“The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomes the recent announcement about the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern as a forward-looking development with the potential to strengthen the national transportation network and support continued economic growth.”

“Utah’s inland position makes us a natural gateway in this new network. This strengthens our role as a critical logistics hub, giving Utah manufacturers, shippers, and businesses faster, more reliable connections while boosting our economy and workforce.”

“What does the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger mean for North Iowa? Better connections to the East Coast and global markets, more affordable and efficient shipping for our industries, and stronger opportunities for our local economy.”

“The Greater Omaha Chamber extends its congratulations to Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern on this historic announcement—uniting their networks to create America’s first coast-to-coast railroad. This landmark achievement honors the very spirit upon which our nation’s railroads were founded: to connect a growing country through infrastructure, innovation, and purpose. Railroads were built in America to bring people, communities, and commerce together—and this new transcontinental network is the embodiment of this dream. This partnership will strengthen domestic supply chains, open new markets, and reinforce our nation’s global competitiveness.”

“We are especially proud that Union Pacific Railroad, one of the most iconic names in American industry, continues to call Omaha, Nebraska home. Their leadership in reshaping the future of freight transportation reinforces our region’s central role in building a more connected and prosperous nation. The Chamber and business community looks forward to supporting this new rail partnership that will deliver for generations to come.”