LINCOLN — Nebraska business leaders and Gov. Jim Pillen are ramping up support for the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern as the rail companies move forward with a renewed federal application. Supporters say the deal would create the nation’s first transcontinental railroad and improve freight transportation for key Nebraska industries, including agriculture and manufacturing.

Pillen said the merger could help farmers move crops more efficiently by reducing delays caused by transfers between rail carriers. The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry also endorsed the proposal, saying a stronger rail system could boost reliability and economic growth. The merger application now heads to federal regulators for review, though critics in several states have raised concerns about competition and national security.

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