FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 2, 1998 SB 98-07

NTSB PUBLIC HEARING ON UNION PACIFIC
RAILROAD SET FOR MARCH 18-20

Washington, DC – As part of its Special Investigation into safety problems at the Union Pacific Railroad Company, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will hold a three day public hearing on March 18-20 in Springfield, Virginia, the Safety Board announced.

The Safety Board is hosting this hearing to address safety problems at UP since its merger with Southern Pacific Railroad. The Federal government’s oversight of UP and the railroad’s own safety program will be the focus of the hearing. The Safety Board will use the information obtained during the public hearing to determine if safety recommendations are needed. The hearing will be chaired by NTSB Member John Goglia.

"Rail safety is a major concern of the Safety Board," said Member Goglia. "Union Pacific had numerous accidents, including several collisions, last year. We need to find out what the underlying causes of these accidents are so we can prevent others."

"Considering that this hearing concerns matters of national interest and participation by Federal agencies is of the utmost importance, the Safety Board feels that holding this hearing in the Washington, DC area is most appropriate," Member Goglia, added.

The hearing will convene at 9:00 a.m. on March 18, at the Springfield Hilton Hotel, 6550 Loisdale Road, Springfield, Virginia. A special room rate of $102.00 plus tax is available for a limited time. Reservations made through March 1, 1998, will be accepted for the special rate on a space and rate availability basis. Telephone 703-971-8900. Be sure to mention that you are attending the NTSB Public Hearing to obtain this special rate.

The NTSB is an independent federal agency empowered by Congress to determine the probable cause of transportation accidents and to make recommendations to improve safety.

Media contacts: Shelly Hazle / Terry Williams (202) 314-6100