Rail merger would benefit Iowa communities

As Mayor of Lowden, Iowa, I want to share why many in our community see value in the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. Lowden sits at the center of eastern Iowa’s agricultural economy, where dependable rail service directly affects the success of our farmers, grain processors, and local co-ops. In rural towns like ours, rail access isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline to markets and opportunity.

A combined rail network stretching from coast to coast would offer more reliable service and shorter shipping times for the agricultural products that sustain our region. For our co-op and producers who depend on timely rail movement, those improvements would mean lower costs, fewer delays, and a more efficient path to buyers across the country.

This merger also has the potential to drive long-term investment in rail infrastructure. Modern, dependable rail service helps small towns like Lowden remain competitive, attract business, and stay connected to national and international trade routes. Strengthening this foundation is essential not only for today’s economy but for the future of rural Iowa.

As a community, we should always look toward opportunities that support our local industries, protect our economic resilience, and ensure rural towns continue to thrive. The discussion around this merger is ultimately about those goals—building a stronger, more connected future for places like Lowden.

Mayor Derrick Lange

Lowden