For 75 years, Lincoln County was restricted with industrial rail shipping opportunities due to the congestion and uniqueness of Bailey Yard, the world’s largest rail classification yard located in North Platte. Starting six years ago, we embarked on a dedicated effort and collaboration with Union Pacific officials to make rail shipping possible. In 2022, we proudly announced the approval and forthcoming construction of the Hershey Rail Park, located 8 miles west of North Platte. The Nebraska Legislature authorized a $30 million match grant for this project. This 300-acre park is projected to have a $1.8 billion economic impact and create up to 1,000 jobs, depending on the nature of the industries recruited. This projection made by Cempel International Transportation Consulting in June of 2022. 
 

Due to the specific requirements of the law, the Chamber & Development Corporation must be the developer of the industrial rail park. We have since purchased 300 acres necessary for the development of the Hershey Rail Park and have identified target industries. Additionally, in collaborative efforts with the Village of Hershey the area is annexed into city limits, with city utilities accessible and making us eligible for redevelopment incentives. Also, in working with the Lincoln County Commissioners, we have succeeded in the application process to receive the FIRST Inland Port Authority from the State of Nebraska. 

The Nebraska International Port of the Plains was designated at the Hershey Rail Park in 2023 by the State of Nebraska. This will increase our potential for access to global markets for both existing and new businesses and provide customs for customers. 

In August of 2025, the Hershey Rail Park officially was designated the FIRST Union Pacific (UP) FOCUS Sites in the State of Nebraska. Union Pacifc Focus sites are strategically selected to give business greater access to rail, reduce uncertainty in connecting to the rail network, and speeding time to market.  "Being a focus site means that Union Pacific is ready to come in whenever industry is ready to come to us," said Darren Wisniski, Economic and Industrial Director for Union Pacific's northern region.

In addition to our existing prospects, our target industries are:

A $250,000 feasibility study regarding a soybean oil crush facility was completed, and an agreement with White River Soy was signed to be the developer/investor for this project. 

The North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation, in partnership with Lincoln County, purchased the 34-acre, 53,000-square-foot production facility from Greenbrier Rail Services. This facility will feature an initial spur to the Union Pacific mainline. Next steps include a transloading drop and pull yard with limited intermodal capability at the Hershey Rail Park. Greenbrier will serve as the headquarter for the Nebraska International Port of the Plains.