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

Omaha-based Union Pacific Railroad’s announcement Tuesday that it is acquiring the Norfolk Southern Railway — a move that would create the first transcontinental, coast-to-coast rail system — drew praise from Nebraska’s public and business leaders.

One of the two major commercial railroads serving South Carolina would be sold under an $85 million deal announced July 29 that would create the nation’s first transcontinental freight carrier.