Union Pacific has cancelled all planned steam activities in 2020, citing the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 virus and social distancing measures.

Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Scott Moore said in a video message to members of Union Pacific’s Steam Club that the railroad is committed to operating in 2021. “We saw last year how much America loves the Big Boy, and what it can do as the giant, rolling ambassador of the Union Pacific.”

While the railroad had not announced an itinerary for this year, it was anticipated that the Big Boy would travel to the Pacific Northwest in late summer.

Moore’s full message, as well as one from Ed Dickens of the UP Steam Team about the status of Big Boy No. 4014, is available on YouTube.