North Yard - SLC

Reconstruction of north and south throats of UP North Yard continues apace. One interesting feature is the super-elevating of two tracks on the south end, indicating a desire to increase speeds in and out of the yard.

Not only are both throats of North Yard - SLC being rebuilt, but much that is inbetween is being rebuilt as well. Clearly, with much super-elevation at the south throat, this is a yard which will emphasize quick entry and departure. This is all a far cry from the early 1990's when rumor had it that UP wanted to buy Roper (then a Rio Grande property) and abandon North Yard. After the UP-SP merger the desire to close North Yard arose again. But there is just too much traffic for Roper, so North Yard is being made into a much more effecient facility.

The SLC-North Yard reconstruction continues to be a major source of entertainment for me. The old passenger main which ran east of the old shops has been cut off, in preparation for UTA commuter rail which will use that route and the shops. This is has been a major project. Wedesday was intersting with a stack coming from the west w/UP SD40-2 as he last unit, in red, white and blue "United Way" livery, looking a little road worn. The same day another consist heading out of the north end had in it 5 somewhat shabby U S Army center cabs on flat cars, probably going to the HIll AFB locomotive rebuild facilty.