Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 to Steam Across 10 Midwestern and Southern States in Fall Tour

Rhea-AI Summary

Union Pacific announced that its iconic steam locomotive, Big Boy No. 4014, will embark on its second tour of 2024, known as the 'Heartland of America Tour.' The tour will kick off on August 29 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and travel through nine additional states: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas, concluding in late October. Key stops include Rochelle, Illinois, on September 8, Houston, Texas, on October 6, and Ft. Worth, Texas, on October 10-11. Big Boy No. 4014 is the world's largest operating steam locomotive and one of eight remaining out of the original 25 built during World War II. The tour aims to offer public and employee engagement while emphasizing safety measures for spectators.

Positive

• The tour will cover 10 states, increasing public engagement and brand visibility.
• Big Boy No. 4014 is the world's largest operating steam locomotive, adding historical value to the tour.
• Union Pacific is involving both the public and employees, fostering community and company morale.
• The tour's multimedia coverage can enhance public relations and media exposure.
• Repeat tours in 2024 can solidify Union Pacific's presence in key regions.

Negative

• Operational costs for the tour could be high, impacting the financials.
• Potential safety risks must be managed, which could involve additional expenses and liabilities.
• The tour does not directly address any core business operations or growth strategies.
• Any delays or issues during the tour could negatively affect public perception.

The ‘Heartland of America Tour’ will be Big Boy’s second tour of 2024

OMAHA, Neb.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Union Pacific announced today that its legendary steam locomotive Big Boy No. 4014 will embark on a second tour this year, with a trip planned this fall in middle America, including Chicago and Houston.

Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 - World's Largest Operating Steam Locomotive (Photo: Business Wire)

The “Heartland of America Tour” will start Aug. 29 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and include nine additional states: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. The eight-week tour concludes in late October.

Big Boy will make several whistle-stops in communities along its route and hold display days for the public and Union Pacific employees to enjoy the locomotive:

• Sept. 8: Rochelle, Illinois (Chicago metro area)
• Oct. 6: Houston, Texas
• Oct. 10-11: Ft. Worth, Texas

Additional route details and approximate times for whistle-stops will be shared closer to the tour.

In all, Big Boy No. 4014 will have visited 14 states in 2024, including five states during its summer “Westward Bound Tour” from Wyoming to California.

Big Boy is the world’s largest operating steam locomotive. Twenty-five were built during World War II, but only eight survived. No. 4014 is the only one in operation. Union Pacific reminds all rail fans to keep safety top of mind and stay 25 feet back from the tracks when taking a picture or viewing this mammoth machine. That means never take a picture or video standing on the track or the ballast and never climb on the locomotive or equipment.

A steam tracking map showing No. 4014's location and route will be available at upsteam.com.

ABOUT UNION PACIFIC

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240617413617/en/

Union Pacific Media Contact: Robynn Tysver at 402-544-6037 or rmtysver@up.com

www.up.com

www.facebook.com/unionpacific

www.twitter.com/unionpacific

Source: Union Pacific

FAQ

What is the Heartland of America Tour by Union Pacific?

The Heartland of America Tour is Union Pacific's second tour of its iconic Big Boy No. 4014 steam locomotive in 2024, covering 10 Midwestern and Southern states from August 29 to late October.

When does Big Boy No. 4014 start its fall tour?

Big Boy No. 4014's fall tour begins on August 29, 2024, starting in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Which states will Big Boy No. 4014 visit on its fall tour?

Big Boy No. 4014 will visit Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wyoming during its fall tour.

When will Big Boy No. 4014 be in Rochelle, Illinois?

Big Boy No. 4014 will be in Rochelle, Illinois, on September 8, 2024.

When will Big Boy No. 4014 visit Houston, Texas?

Big Boy No. 4014 will visit Houston, Texas, on October 6, 2024.

What are the safety guidelines for viewing Big Boy No. 4014?

Union Pacific advises staying 25 feet back from the tracks, not standing on the tracks or ballast, and never climbing on the locomotive or equipment.

Why is Big Boy No. 4014 significant?

Big Boy No. 4014 is the world's largest operating steam locomotive and one of only eight remaining out of the original 25 built during World War II.

How many states will Big Boy No. 4014 have visited in 2024?

By the end of 2024, Big Boy No. 4014 will have visited 14 states, including the five states during its summer 'Westward Bound Tour.'

Where can I track Big Boy No. 4014's location during the tour?

A steam tracking map showing Big Boy No. 4014's location and route will be available at upsteam.com.