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Union Pacific and LyondellBasell present proposed 4.5‑mile rail connection to Bay City site
Summary
Union Pacific and LyondellBasell briefed council on plans to build about 4.5 miles of rail infrastructure connecting the LyondellBasell Bay City facility to Union Pacific’s network; the project will involve landowner outreach and is expected to reduce downtown switching movements.
Union Pacific Railroad and LyondellBasell representatives briefed the Bay City City Council on a proposed roughly 4.5‑mile rail extension that would connect the LyondellBasell Bay City plant to Union Pacific’s national network.
Richard Zentek, senior director of public affairs for Union Pacific, said the rail connection would strengthen the company’s regional position and could support future investments, and that the railroad had begun contacting landowners along the proposed corridor to discuss property acquisition needs. Zentek said the project should reduce downtown switching movements by removing current switch moves that occur in Downtown Bay City.
Mike Middleton, site manager for LyondellBasell’s Matagorda County facility, said the connection provides operational flexibility for the site and opportunities for future growth. Matagorda County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Mike Ferdinand told council the investment is important for making the facility and the county competitive for industry and workforce recruitment and that it should reduce problematic switching that can delay emergency response in town.
Union Pacific representatives said they want to work with the city and local stakeholders during outreach and that they will be available to answer questions as the project advances. No formal council action was requested or taken during the presentation.
