Stalled Union Pacific Train Causes Major Traffic Delays Near West Loop

Train Stalls, Blocking Major Intersections

• 🚆 A Union Pacific train stalled due to a mechanical issue, creating a mile-long traffic nightmare.
• ⏰ The train blocked major intersections including Westheimer, Richmond, and San Felipe for approximately 5 hours.
• 🚗 Drivers faced significant delays, with some resorting to turning around into oncoming traffic or driving on grass to bypass the blockage.

Traffic Reopens and Aftermath

• ✅ Around 3:10 PM, the train began moving, and traffic flow was restored.
• 📍 The stalled section stretched from the Southwest Freeway to San Felipe.
• 🗣️ A local business employee described feeling "held hostage" by the traffic, unable to leave their workplace until it cleared.

Ongoing Traffic Congestion

• 📈 Even after the train moved, heavier congestion was observed on the West Loop northbound lanes up to San Felipe.
• ⚠️ Side streets near the West Loop, including Westheimer, San Felipe, and Richmond, experienced continued delays.
• ⏳ Drivers heading towards the West Loop were advised to allow 3 to 4 minutes of extra travel time.
• ❓ The exact cause of the mechanical issue is still under investigation by Union Pacific.