The merger would create the United States’ first coast-to-coast rail network, spanning 50,000 miles and 43 states.

Union Pacific Corp. agreed to acquire Norfolk Southern Corp. in a $72 billion cash-and-stock transaction, forming the only US transcontinental railroad in what stands to be the industry’s largest deal ever.

Union Pacific Transcontinental Railroad will strengthen U.S. supply chain, economy, and domestic manufacturing; preserve union jobs.