Omaha, NE – (Contributed) – Sept 12, 2024 – Union Pacific Railroad’s famed Big Boy No. 4014 locomotive will stop in Jonesboro this weekend.

The train will arrive in Poplar Bluff, MO on Thursday, September 12 and stay overnight there. Departure the following morning, September 13, is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. with a stop scheduled in Piggott at the Jackson Street crossing at 1:30 p.m.  The train will remain in Piggott for about a half-hour before traveling through Rector, Marmaduke, Paragould, and Brookland for an overnight stay in Jonesboro.

 

There will be no public access to the train while it is stopped in Jonesboro. According to a Union Pacific news release “Locations where the Big Boy stops overnight are closed to the public due to safety and security reasons, unless otherwise noted on the schedule. Non-employees who access these locations without permission will be treated as trespassers. Morning departure and afternoon arrival times are not available.”

 

The train is scheduled to depart Jonesboro on Saturday, September 14. It will make thirty-minute stops in Hickory Ridge, Brinkley and Pine Bluff before its overnight stay in North Little Rock. A public viewing is scheduled in North Little Rock on Sunday, September 15 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at 1000 West 4th Street.

When steam locomotives come through a community it is especially important to remember and emphasize safety. Union Pacific says the average train overhangs the track by at least three feet and wider loads can extend even further from the tracks. It is imperative that pedestrians stand back at least 25 feet or more from the tracks to avoid debris and steam or being hit by the train itself.

“We understand these events and railroad equipment, especially historic equipment like Living Legend No. 844 and Big Boy No. 4014, are fascinating and we want you to enjoy these moments in time with us; but ask that you please do it safely. Since we know capturing the moment with pictures and video is important to many, please check out Union Pacific’s photo policy.

For everyone’s safety:

-Remember, trains can’t stop quickly to avoid people or vehicles on the tracks.
-A train’s distance from you and its speed can be deceiving.
-The average train overhangs the track by at least three feet – take extra precaution and stand back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks..
-Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and right-of-way are private property – please do not trespass.
-Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive – ALWAYS expect a train and assume tracks are active.
-Keep drones at least 25 feet away from all railroad tracks and follow all FAA regulations on their use.
-Hearing protection is recommended.