 This was the last private intercity passenger train in the United States until Brightline (now Virgin Trains USA) began service in Florida in 2018.In 1988, the Rio Grande's parent corporation, Rio Grande Industries, purchased Southern Pacific Transportation Company, and as the result of a merger, the larger Southern Pacific Railroad name was chosen for identity.The Rio Grande operated as a separate division of the Southern Pacific, until that company was acquired by the Union Pacific Railroad.