Union Pacific to reimburse Tempe for 2020 train derailment expenses

 

PHOENIX — Union Pacific Railroad announced plans on Friday to reimburse the city of Tempe for expenses related to a cargo train derailment that took place in July 2020.

Tempe will receive $481,715 to cover repairs and replacement of damaged city property, traffic control and environmental testing, among other expenses, officials said in a press release.

Since the train’s derailment, the railroad company has spent approximately $11 million for repairs and replacements, including damage to Tempe Beach Park, such as trees and streetlights, the release said.

“It’s in a time of crisis that you truly see the extraordinary professionalism, dedication and expertise of Tempe’s city staff and regional partners,” Andrew Ching, city manager, said in the press release.

“From the first moment of the railroad incident through the reimbursement, we worked together for the safety and well-being of our community.”

There were no injuries, but one person was treated for smoke inhalation, a Union Pacific spokesman said at the time.

Follow @KTAR923