Railway Age magazine

NYMTA

The New York MTA on Dec. 2 unveiled a first-of-its-kind, limited-edition merchandise collaboration with the AMNH in celebration of the 40th anniversary of MTA Arts & Design. The capsule collection draws inspiration from artwork at the 81st Street-Museum of Natural History B and C subway station.

The station’s expansive mixed-media art installation, titled “For Want of a Nail,” compromises glass mosaic, glass tile, ceramic tile, granite, and bronze relief. It was developed by MTA Arts & Design in partnership with AMNH staff and community members and installed in 2000. The designs, the agency says, “reflect the broad scope of the Museum’s renowned collections and exhibitions, celebrating the intersection of science, art, and the everyday journeys of transit riders.”

The collection apparel and accessories for all ages—adult and children’s t-shirts, a fleece sweatshirt, water bottle, tote, backpack, hat, stickers, magnets and collectible pins. Merchandise is available exclusively at the AMNH Gift Shop and online store while supplies last.

This initiative, the agency says, “reflects the MTA’s ongoing commitment to enriching the transit experience through art, culture and community partnerships. It also invites New Yorkers and visitors alike to engage with public transit and natural history in a new and tangible way. The collaboration is part of a broader initiative to generate incremental revenue for the MTA through activities such as licensing and advertising.”

“Transit’s not just a way to get from point A to point B, it’s a cultural experience,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. “Few stations make the point better than 81 St–Museum of Natural History with its stunning mosaics, and we hope this will be the first of many location-based collections between the MTA and iconic New York institutions like this one.”

“Most of our visitors and staff arrive at the Museum by subway through one of the most iconic and beautiful stations in the system,” said American Museum of Natural History President Sean M. Decatur. “A journey of discovery begins the minute you step off the train and encounter spectacular art installations that reflect the wide range of the Museum’s scientific work and exhibitions, thanks to Arts for Transit and our longstanding partnership with the MTA. We’re delighted now to build on our partnership, enabling visitors to bring home a souvenir both of their time at the Museum and their travel through the 81 St–Museum of Natural History station.”

VIA Rail

VIA Rail on Dec. 3 welcomed elected officials, partners, and members of its Accessibility Advisory Committee to its Ottawa Station to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and to unveil its 2026-2029 Accessibility Plan, recently submitted to the Government of Canada.

For VIA Rail, the agency says, “accessibility is not simply a goal, it is a core value that guides its decisions, the design of its services, and the way its teams welcome and support passengers and employees.” For several years, it has worked closely with experts, specialized organizations, and persons with disabilities to make its network, digital tools, and workplace increasingly inclusive.

“As Canada’s national intercity passenger rail carrier, we have a responsibility to make transportation accessible to as many people as possible,” said VIA Rail President and CEO Mario Péloquin. “With unprecedented federal support and the guidance of our accessibility partners, we are delivering a travel experience that removes barriers and expands mobility for all Canadians.”

The 2026–2029 Accessibility Plan (download below), VIA Rail says, reflects this ambition and is structured around strengthened priorities, including:

• “Integrating accessibility from the design stage of all major projects, including digital services, internal procedures, and workplace environments.
• “Improving the experience of persons with disabilities through user-centered processes, ongoing staff training, and sustained dialogue with the advisory committee.
• “Creating an inclusive and barrier-free workplace to ensure that all employees and candidates benefit from real equality of opportunity.”

The event also highlighted the crucial role of collaboration. Organizations such as Transport Canada, Ottawa Tourism, members of VIA Rail’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, and participants in the various accessibility consultations have, for years, helped shape the solutions being implemented, the agency noted.

The plan is also supported by federal investments, including those announced in Budget 2024 to renew VIA Rail’s pan-Canadian fleet, which will introduce modern and universally accessible trains across the country beginning in 2032.

2026-2029_VIA-RAIL_Accessibility-Plan_ENDownload Mass. Government

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey on Dec. 3 held a signing ceremony for a bill to protect transit workers from assault and battery, according to a WWLP news report.

According to the report, the new law “ensures public transportation workers are explicitly protected from assault and battery, including assault involving human secretions. The human secretion clause closes a loophole in the law where certain behaviors did not previously explicitly fall under the categories of assault and battery. According to the governor, transit workers often face violent behavior from customers while working.”

The protections, WWLP reports, which, applies to transit workers across the state—Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) employees in Cambridge to bus drivers in Chicopee—takes effect in early March, 90 days after the official signing.

The post Transit Briefs: NYMTA, VIA Rail, Mass. Government appeared first on Railway Age.

Democrat Robert E. Primus, fired Aug. 27 from the Surface Transportation Board (STB) by Republican POTUS 47, alleges in an amended legal challenge filed in federal district court Dec. 4 that the primary reason for his termination is racial discrimination—not politics nor concerns how he might vote on the soon-to-be filed merger application by railroads Union Pacific (UP) and Norfolk Southern (NS). Primus seeks reinstatement.

When terminated in August, Primus was in the midst of a second Senate-confirmed five-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2027.

Primus’ first term began in January 2021 following nomination by POTUS 45. He was filling a seat left vacant by Democrat Deb Miller, whose term expired in 2018. Democratic President Joe Biden designated Primus as chairperson in 2024, following the retirement of Democratic Chairperson Martin J. Oberman. After taking office in January 2025, POTUS 47 designated sitting Republican board member Patrick J. Fuchs as chairperson, with Primus returning to member status—a typical event when Presidential Administrations change.

Of 117 White House nominated and Senate confirmed members of the 138-year-old STB and its Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) predecessor, Primus is only the fifth Black, and was the first Black chairperson. Prior to Primus’ Senate confirmation, it was 2001 when the STB previously had a Black member—William Clyburn Jr., who departed upon term expiration.

Primus first challenged his firing in September in federal district court as unlawful, alleging members of independent regulatory agencies may be removed only for cause (inefficiency, neglect of duty or malfeasance in office), and that POTUS 47 failed to provide a valid reason. Primus’ “effective immediately” termination was made in a terse 28-word email from the White House Personnel Office. 

In his Dec. 4 amended complaint (download below), Primus says his firing “fits within a pattern of the Trump Administration disproportionately removing Black government officials, and particularly Presidentially appointed and Senate-confirmed Board members of independent multimember agencies.” He says “75% of Black federal officials” on multi-member agencies have been removed from office. In contrast, Primus says “only approximately 27% of white federal officials” on multimember agencies have been removed.

The amended lawsuit asserts that the Constitution’s Fifth Amendment Due Process Clause “guarantees the federal government will provide all people with equal protection under the law. Included within the ambit of these rights is a protection [because of race] against discrimination in employment decisions.”

Additionally, the amended complaint rejects that Primus’ political affiliation as a Democrat could be “the sole reason” for his termination, as even had Primus remained a Board member, a third Republican vacancy exists to assure a 3-2 Republican majority. That allegation is questionable, as if Primus had remained, and the third Republican seat not filled, the Board would have two Republicans and two Democrats. The amended complaint further says that while Democrat Primus, a Black, was removed, Democrat Karen J. Hedlund, White, retained her seat.

Hedlund is serving her first term, which expires at the end of December and is eligible for a second five-year term, although no renomination has been made. Primus, as mentioned, was in his second term, with a Dec. 31, 2027, expiration. By statute, STB members may remain in holdover statute up to 12 months beyond term expiration or until a successor has been Senate confirmed.

Primus is represented by Democracy First Foundation (a national legal organization that “advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement”) and Justice Legal Strategies (a civil rights law firm). The lawsuit is against POTUS 47 and Fuchs, in his official position as STB chairperson.

Primus is not the only Black fired by POTUS 47 from an independent federal regulatory agency. Other Blacks fired have been Democrat Rebecca Slaughter from the Federal Trade Commission; Democrat Gwynee Wilcox from the National Labor Relations Board; and Democrat Alvin Brown from the National Transportation Safety Board. Each has filed a lawsuit alleging unlawful termination. Brown amended his Dec. 4 to make the same racial discrimination allegation as Primus.

Because of first-impression Constitutional questions, finality for each of the original lawsuits must await Supreme Court review. The Justice Department, which supports the firings, argued that even if the POTUS 47 terminations are unlawful, courts have no authority to order reinstatement.

Democrat Deidre Hamilton, fired by POTUS 47 from the National Mediation Board, has so far not filed a lawsuit. She does not identify as Black.

Primus is not without a contentious history on an agency whose reputation depends on perceptions of decisional independence, free from influence of special interests or politics. Throughout his time at the STB, Primus displayed an alignment with rail labor on issues over which the STB has no jurisdiction—carrier employment levels and implementation of operating strategies such as Precision Scheduled Railroading. In a personal appearance at a rail labor union event, Primus said, “Thank you for letting me represent you”—a suggestion perceived by many as in conflict with impartial execution of STB responsibilities.

There have been unvalidated allegations that Primus was predetermined to vote against a UP-NS merger based on his opposition to a 2022 STB-approved merger of railroads Canadian Pacific with Kansas City Southern to form CPKC. Those allegations gained traction following a recent meeting between UP CEO Jim Vena and POTUS 47 at which Vena made a cash contribution on behalf of UP to a POTUS 47 planned White House ballroom, and the President responded how the proposed merger “sounds good to me.” There is no evidence that Primus’ firing—which occurred months before the Vena-POTUS 47 meeting—was urged by Vena or UP lobbyists.

The five-member STB is currently at a strength of three—Republicans Fuchs and Michelle A. Schutz, and Democrat Hedlund. Schultz, whose first term expires in late 2026, was renominated to a second five year term by POTUS 47 and awaits Senate confirmation. POTUS 47 nomination of a third Republican, Richard Kloster, is currently before the Senate Commerce Committee, which will meet in Executive Session Dec. 8 to vote on whether to recommend him for Senate floor confirmation. The STB’s second Democratic seat, held by Primus until his termination, remains open.

It was not until 1979 that the ICC and its STB successor (the ICC created in 1887) had its first Black member, Marcus Alexis (1979-1981), who was nominated by President Jimmy Carter. Other Blacks, in addition to Primus, were Reginald E. Gilliam Jr. (1980-1983), Jacob J. Simmons (1982-1983 and 1984-1986), and Clyburn (1998-2001).

The first female ICC/STB member was Virginia Mae Brown (1964-1979), nominated by President Lyndon Johnson. Since, there have been nine other female members: Betty Jo Christian (1976-1979), Heather J. Gradison (1982-1990), Karen B. Phillips (1988-1994), Gail C. McDonald (1990-1995), Linda J. Morgan (1994-2003), Ann D. Begeman (2011-2021), Debra L. Miller (2014-2018), Michelle A. Schultz (2021-____) and Karen J. Hedlund (2021-____). 

The ICC/STB has had only one Latino member, Democrat Rodolfo Montejano, a Mexican American attorney son of a migrant farm worker, who failed to gain Senate confirmation but received a recess appointment from President Richard Nixon in 1972. Four months later, Montejano voluntarily resigned to make way for another Nixon nominee, Democrat A. Daniel O’Neal.  

Railway Age Capitol Hill Contributing Editor Frank N. Wilner, a former White House appointed STB chief of staff, is author of “Railroads & Economic Regulation,” which includes a history of the ICC and STB, including significant decisions and biographies of the agency’s 117 members. It is available Simmons-Boardman Books, 800-228-9670.

Primus-v-Trump-amended-complaintDownload

The post Primus, Late of STB, Alleges Racial Bias appeared first on Railway Age.

The budget, which runs from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2026, aligns expenses with the transit agency’s Strategic Plan, minimizes impacts to transit service delivery, and retains the people needed to “deliver its mission,” according to RTD, which provides light rail, commuter rail, bus, on-demand, paratransit, airport, and special event services in eight Colorado counties. The budget proposal was made available for public inspection in October.

(Courtesy of RTD)

Excluding the impact and timing of the $138 million East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, RTD said its revenue budget is expected to increase 6% to $1.141 million over the 2025 budget. The agency’s labor and purchased transportation expense comprise 60% of operating expense in next year’s budget.

RTD’s primary source of revenue—69% in the approved 2026 budget—comes from the collection of a 1% sales and use tax in the Denver metro area. “The sales and use tax is subject to external market factors, including inflation, recessions, and the availability of goods and services,” RTD noted. “The budget also accounts for uncertainties in the financial climate for government agencies and private businesses alike.”

The Business Research Division (BRD) of the University of Colorado Boulder’s Leeds School of Business conducted independent third-party research to provide semi-annual sales and use tax forecast models to RTD in September 2025, according to the transit agency. The BRD projected a 1% increase in sales and use tax revenue in 2026, with a forecast of $877 million vs. its latest forecast for 2025; the $877 million in 2026 is 3% lower than the 2025 budget, as BRD’s projections for 2025 declined since RTD adopted the 2025 budget in November 2024, the transit agency said. For 2026, this revenue amount is forecasted to comprise 77% of RTD’s expected funding sources before the impact of East Colfax BRT, it said. BRD’s medium forecast financial models are used by RTD to develop its annual budget and five-year financial forecast.

RTD said it plans to “pare back funding for service contracts in 2026 that did not meet the anticipated budget costs for 2025,” resulting in a projected $17 million savings. The agency’s closed (legacy) pension plan contribution for salaried employees is budgeted at $7 million in 2026 vs. $15 million in 2025, because, RTD said, “the plan is considered adequately funded.” Another budget reduction is the delayed hiring for 81 vacant positions to yield $7 million in savings, and modifications to overtime are projected to deliver savings of $5 million, the agency reported.

While RTD plans no reduction in force for 2026 in the budget, it excludes an allotment for a cost-of-living adjustment or merit increases for non-represented employees. The agency noted that in October 2025 it implemented a cost-saving measure impacting non-represented RTD employees who received a merit increase as a one-time lump sum distribution in 2025 that resulted in $4 million in savings for 2026.

(Courtesy of RTD)

The RTD Board amended the 2026 budget to exclude $20 million in debt financing for cutaway vehicles used for paratransit and FlexRide services, according to the transit agency. The plan includes prepayment of $57 million in 2026 debt obligations “to strengthen the agency’s fiscal performance,” it noted. The approved 2026 budget includes no change to the FasTracks Internal Savings Account balance, which RTD said is currently $192 million. The capital replacement fund is proposed at $166 million, though RTD said it is “not expected to be sufficient to cover capital requirements through 2030.” The operating reserve of $227 million is set at three months of operating expenses according to fiscal policy, it noted.

Debra A. Johnson (Courtesy of RTD)

RTD said it will monitor expenditures throughout 2026 to identify further savings opportunities, while avoiding actions that would postpone funding for preventative maintenance or equipment replacement. Additionally, it said the Board “will continue to incorporate a budgetary monitoring system that charges expenditures against approved appropriations.”

RTD’s FY 2026 budget complies with Colorado Local Government Budget Law.

“The 2026 budget includes an overview of cost-saving recommendations to more closely align expenditures to projected revenue,” RTD General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson said. “RTD will take a disciplined approach to managing expenses in the year ahead, and the agency is proposing implementation of a variety of opportunities that reduce costs and ensures good fiscal stewardship.”

In related news, RTD earlier this month released its third-quarter financial results for FY25. While total revenue rose to $321 million, up $41 million or 15%, from the same period last year, it fell short of budget projections by $21 million or 6%, according to the transit agency.

Further Reading:

• Denver RTD Launches Open Payments With Masabi
• Denver RTD Releases Draft 2025 Finishing FasTracks Report
• Metra Approves $1.2B Operating Budget for 2026
• PATH: $2.6B Capital Plan for 2026-2035
• Chicago Transit Board Approves 2026 CTA Budget
• TriMet Board Adopts $1.96B FY2026 Budget
• MARTA, BART Budgets Approved for FY26
• Caltrain: ‘Cuts to Come’ Without External Funding

The post For Denver RTD, FY26 Budget Tops $1.5B appeared first on Railway Age.

The signing with ENSCO took place on Nov.17, 2025, with Dr. Yong Jang Kwon signing on behalf of KRRI and Bindi Patel, ENSCO Vice President of Contracts and Procurement, signing on behalf of ENSCO.

The agreement, ENSCO says, “establishes a framework for cooperation between ENSCO and KRRI to identify and pursue mutually beneficial research and development initiatives, including heavy haul operations, high-speed rail technologies, advanced testing methodologies, and safety systems. It also provides for the potential exchange of technical expertise, joint training programs, and shared use of test facilities in both the United States and the Republic of Korea.”

The MOU follows recent technical discussions between ENSCO and KRRI and coincides with both organizations’ participation in the International Heavy Haul Association (IHHA) and World Congress on Railway Research (WCRR) 2025 conferences. KRRI representatives visited the TTC ahead of these events to explore collaborative opportunities and review the facility’s modernization and multimodal testing capabilities.

“ENSCO and KRRI share a deep commitment to advancing the safety and performance of global rail systems,” said ENSCO President Jeff Stevens. “This partnership strengthens the Transportation Technology Center’s role as an international hub for innovation.”

“Through this collaboration, KRRI looks forward to working closely with ENSCO to advance joint research that contributes to the future of sustainable and intelligent railway systems,” said KRRI President Dr. Myung Sagong.

This international collaboration, the operator says, “builds on ENSCO’s commitment to position the TTC as a global center for transportation research, safety, and technology development, supporting the FRA’s ongoing mission to promote innovation across all modes of surface transportation.”

The agreement with MxV Rail, which was formalized on Nov. 18 during Rail Research Week 2025, “establishes an unprecedented commitment to knowledge sharing, site coordination, and mission-critical research between the organizations,” MxV Rail said.

(MxV Rail)

The new partnership, the organization says, “significantly enhances the capabilities of both MxV Rail and KRRI by aligning their world-class testing facilities, institutional knowledge, and engineering expertise.” Future research endeavors will include shared use of test rolling stock, collaboration on digital data asset management and maintenance systems, exchanging personnel for knowledge transfer and employee growth, as well as joint development of thought leadership, training programs, seminars, and symposia.

“This partnership is significant as it further strengthens the longstanding cooperation that has continued since the signing of the MOU in 2018,” said Sagong. “Through closer collaboration between our two organizations, we expect to see enhanced joint responses to the digital transformation of the railway industry driven by the sharing of information, knowledge, and experience; strengthened practical cooperation in testing, certification, and the use of test tracks; and improved national competitiveness through proactive and mutually beneficial responses to changes in the global railway environment.”

“Our teams have historically worked on carbon-neutral and digital technologies together, and both organizations recognize that, along with our technical prowess, people are the heart of what we do,” said MxV Rail President and CEO Kari Gonzales. “With every advancement in the safety, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the railways, we improve communities around the globe. We are going to do great things together.”

The post KRRI Signs MOU With ENSCO, MxV Rail appeared first on Railway Age.

G&W

G&W recently reported that overall satisfaction with its customer service is up for the third consecutive period based on the company’s biennial survey of its customers.

In related news, G&W also recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of RSR. Spanning 101 miles, this short line railroad serves customers in western New York and offers shippers access to the North American freight rail network via interchange with CPKC, CSX and Norfolk Southern (NS).

Alaska Railroad Corporation

The Alaska Railroad Corporation on Dec. 3 announced that it has completed an innovative $112 million port revenue bond issuance to provide long-term financing for the replacement of the 60-year-old cruise ship dock and terminal in Seward, Alaska—a critical gateway serving more than 205,000 passengers annually and a vital component of Alaska’s $2.2 billion cruise ship tourism economy. The new facility will accommodate larger vessels and support continued economic growth in a state where 65% of summer tourists arrive by cruise ship, according to the company.

The deal was named The Bond Buyer’s Deal of the Year in the Far West category. BofA Securities acted as the senior manager and Wells Fargo acted as the co-manager.

Orrick served as counsel to lender Goldman Sachs Bank USA, who provided the interim construction loan to Seward Company, the Alaska-based private developer, to finance a portion of the construction costs of the $137 million cruise terminal and pier.

The post Small-Road Briefs: G&W, Alaska Railroad Corporation appeared first on Railway Age.

Indiana River & Rail Terminals (IRRT) has leased a fourth building at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville, expanding its capacity for handling barge shipments of steel and general cargo by 40%, according to the Ports of Indiana, a statewide port authority operating three ports—Jeffersonville, Burns Harbor, and Mount Vernon—on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan.

Burns Harbor Railroad, Mount Vernon Railroad, Evansville Western Railway, CSX, Louisville & Indiana Railroad, and Norfolk Southern are among the railroads serving the Ports.

The Ports of Indiana on Dec. 3 reported that it was nearing capacity for steel shipments by late 2024; that’s why IRRT, its joint venture with general cargo stevedore Superior River Terminals-Indiana, decided to lease another building. The 156,000-square-foot facility in Jeffersonville will supplement IRRT’s existing warehouse capacity of 195,000 square feet, bringing the total to just over 350,000 square feet.

This new capacity includes opportunities for Foreign-Trade Zone storage, heavy lift cargo, rail transload, and support for higher volumes of barge, rail, and truck operations, according to the Ports. Additionally, the expansion positions Jeffersonville to serve a broader range of industries and cargo types, it noted.

(Courtesy of the Ports of Indiana)

IRRT now manages seven buildings and serves 2,200 acres at the ports in Jeffersonville (located on the Ohio/Mississippi river system, just minutes from downtown Louisville, Ky.) and Mount Vernon (located near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers). (See maps above and below.) It also operates an outdoor storage facility designed to accommodate barge shuttles for Nucor and other steel companies.  

(Courtesy of the Ports of Indiana)

“IRRT’s growth reflects the strength of our partnership and the increasing demand for flexible, multimodal logistics solutions in southern Indiana,” Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock said. “We’re proud to support this expansion and ensure Jeffersonville remains a vital hub for barge, rail, and truck shipments.” 

“We’re not just adding square footage—we’re adding opportunity,” IRRT President Jonathan Lamb said. “This expansion is about meeting demand and staying ahead of the curve. We’ve seen consistent double-digit growth since 2022, and adding new warehouse space ensures we can continue to serve our customers with speed, flexibility, and reliability. Jeffersonville is ready for more—and we’re building the capacity to deliver.” 

“IRRT serves as a model of collaborative growth, combining the operational expertise of an experienced logistics company and the economic development mission of Ports of Indiana to deliver major returns for our region,” added George Ott, Port Director for Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville. “Together, these partners are committed to delivering efficient, customer-focused solutions that drive economic development and global trade.” 

Separately, Tanco Terminals is expanding its liquid barge facility at the Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville, where it provides marine, rail, and truck access for liquid asphalt and fertilizer products.

The post IRRT Boosts Capacity at Rail-Served Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville appeared first on Railway Age.

CN (Courtesy of CN)

“We’re back and keeping it cool,” CN reported recently via social media. Together with DP World Canada and COSCO SHIPPING, the Class I railroad said it has reignited its CargoCool Intelligen Powerpack service out of Prince Rupert, “offering shippers a secure and reliable gateway.” With its “direct-to-port rail access, dependable plug capacity, and weekly service,” CN said perishable goods can “move seamlessly and stay fresh from Asia to key markets across Canada and the U.S. Midwest.”

According to CN, the Port of Prince Rupert, which it serves exclusively, is one of North America’s “fastest growing and most efficient gateways—offering a unique geographic advantage.” At 500 nautical miles closer to Asia than southern alternatives, it is said to enable faster transit times: 36 hours closer to Shanghai than Seattle, Wash., and more than 68 hours closer than Los Angeles/Long Beach, Calif.

CN this summer reported investing in a new Zanardi Rapids Bridge—the entrance to the Port of Prince Rupert and the City of Prince Rupert, near the District of Port Edward—to expand capacity and “unlock the port’s full potential.” The project extends several miles of track in both directions and connects the new three-track bridge to meet growing demand, the railroad said.

According to CN, its investment “complements the broader port infrastructure development plan,” which includes several projects:

• “CANXPORT: A bulk transload and breakbulk facility with an off-dock container yard.
• “REEF (Ridley Island Energy Export Facility): A bulk liquids and LPG terminal helping position Canada as a global energy partner.
• “Trigon Berth Expansion: Increasing capacity at the existing Trigon terminal.
• “Import Container Transload Facility: Addressing surging demand for transloading services.”

These new terminals, CN said, “will support and enhance the Fairview Container Terminal, ensuring that the port is aligned for growth, efficiency, and global competitiveness.”

Further Reading:

• Building for Growth: CN’s Commitment to a Stronger, More Resilient Supply Chain
• CN: ‘Keeping it Fresh’
• CN Commits to Port of Prince Rupert’s Future With Zanardi Rapids Bridge Project
• LinX Logistics Facility Coming to Port of Prince Rupert
• CN Deploys Innovative Technology to Remotely Monitor Temperature-Controlled Cargo
• Port of Prince Rupert, DP World agree on next expansion of Fairview Container Terminal

NS A pediatric patient at Children’s of Alabama holds a stuffed NS thoroughbred mascot. The railroad is helping to expand medical care here. (Courtesy of NS)

NS on Dec. 3 reported awarding more than $6.1 million this year to 402 organizations in 22 states and 219 cities across its network, through its Thriving Communities and Safety First grant programs. The programs are said to reflect the railroad’s four pillars of community impact: safety, sustainability, workforce development, and thriving communities. In 2025, it committed more than $4.5 million for initiatives in sustainability, housing stability, and community well-being through the Thriving Communities program, and more than $1.6 million to improve emergency preparedness and public safety through the Safety First program. Since both programs launched in 2023, NS has provided $17 million-plus in funding.

Among the grant programs’ recent highlights:

• City of Refuge (Atlanta): A Thriving Communities grant is funding shelter, meals, and “life-building” support for Atlantans facing housing insecurity. “This builds on our ongoing partnership,” NS said. “Earlier this year we came together to open a new Welding Training Center.”
• Children’s of Alabama (Birmingham): A Thriving Communities grant is “expanding critical care capacity and simulation-based training, bringing lifesaving care closer to home for more children across Alabama,” NS said.
• Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (Pittsburgh): A $40,000 Thriving Communities grant has already delivered 30,000-plus meals for families facing hunger in the region’s 11-county service area,” NS said. The railroad also provided recently a $30,000 holiday donation and is hosting a community event on Dec. 6 at the food bank where meal kits and winter essentials will be given away.
• Chicago Police Foundation (Chicago): A Safety First grant is supporting tools like drones and vehicles “to deter theft and strengthen community safety citywide,” NS reported.
• Front Steps (Cleveland): A Thriving Communities grant “is expanding wraparound care for people facing homelessness,” according to NS. A 2024 grant, it said, also helped grow the nonprofit’s Basic Job Training Program.

“We’re committed to supporting organizations that strengthen the communities we serve,” said Kristin Wong, Director, NS Foundation and Community Impact. “These grants help local partners advance safety, build opportunity, and create lasting resilience for our customers, our employees, and our neighbors across the network.”

Further Reading:

• UP+NS: STB Application Now Mid-December; 4Q25 Earnings Tempered
• From Port to Porch: Team NS Powers Peak Season 2025

UP

“For more than 160 years, Union Pacific has helped keep America’s military mission ready, moving the equipment, supplies and technology that support national defense across our 23-state network,” the railroad reported Dec. 3. “This robust relationship will only get stronger as the [proposed] merger with Norfolk Southern advances, creating a more agile, fluid supply chain.”

According to UP, every year, thousands its railcars carry Humvees, helicopters, Abrams tanks, fuel, and food, linking inland bases to ports in California, Louisiana, and the Pacific Northwest, as well as major Great Lakes facilities.

Fort Riley in Kansas is one example of UP’s partnership with the military. Working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the railroad said it helped to expand the base’s rail loading capacity with 33,000 feet of new track. “It’s a $15 million investment that transformed how quickly the base can deploy,” UP reported. “Before the project, Fort Riley could move about 100 railcars in 24 hours. Today, it can pre-build multiple trains and deploy an entire brigade up to 700 cars in less than two days.”

UP noted that it “remains the only U.S. carrier with access to all six gateways into and out of Mexico,” which it said gives the Department of Defense critical reach.

“The nation’s first coast-to-coast rail[road though UP’s proposed merger with NS would] create a more predictable flow for bases, manufacturers and ports across 43 states,” the railroad said. “By reducing handoffs between carriers and removing bottlenecks, cargo will move with greater agility, reliability and predictability.”

Further Reading:

• Rob Russell: ‘Rail is a Precious Commodity’ – RAIL GROUP ON AIR
• UP’s Jalali: No Hiccups With NS IT Integration
• Ag-State Senators to STB: Be ‘Rigorous’ and ‘Comprehensive’
• Why a Unified Rail Network Makes Sense

The post Class I Briefs: CN, NS, UP appeared first on Railway Age.

Last updated in 2021, the State Rail Plan (download below), “which reflects the latest rail project priorities and helps position Oklahoma stakeholders for federal funding,” enables ODOT to:

• “Take inventory and review usage of all rail lines.
• “Analyze rail service goals and rail’s contribution.
• “Catalog and assess potential infrastructure projects.
• “Examine financing challenges for projects and services.
• “Review rail safety improvement projects.”

ODOT will present Rail Plan updates during a virtual public information meeting at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 9. The materials presented during the meeting, as well as an online survey, will be available here following the meeting.

Survey responses are also due by 5 p.m., Jan. 31. Public feedback will help shape the 2026 Rail Plan. Another public meeting will be held after the draft Rail Plan is released.

SRP 2021 Final with FRA ApprovalDownload

The post ODOT Seeking Feedback on State Rail Plan appeared first on Railway Age.

IntelliTrans

IntelliTrans on Dec. 2 announced that it has launched a new brand identity that reflects the multimodal transportation management solutions company’s “continued evolution and long-term strategy.”

The refreshed brand, the company says, “signals IntelliTrans’ ongoing progression toward a more dynamic, people-centered approach that elevates the expertise of transportation professionals and strengthens the company’s role as a trusted partner in increasingly complex supply chains.”

The rebrand marks a significant milestone in a multi-year transformation of IntelliTrans’ strategy, solutions, and customer experience, noted the company in a release. “The company’s updated visual identity reinforces IntelliTrans’ commitment to simplifying the complexity of global transportation while honoring its 30-year legacy of reliability and innovation.”

“For more than three decades, IntelliTrans has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the transportation professionals managing some of North America’s most complex freight networks,” said IntelliTrans President and CEO Chad Raube. “This rebrand honors that foundation while signaling the bold future we are building. We’re investing in our product, taking our multimodal strength further, and reimagining the customer experience from end to end. Through it all, our focus remains on elevating the insights and expertise of transportation professionals to create competitive advantage for the companies we serve.”

The brand refresh, the company says, coincides with IntelliTrans’ continued expansion of its Transportation Management System (TMS) platform and managed services, which give shippers and carriers greater visibility and control across rail, truck, and other modes. “Recent advancements strengthen the company’s position as a go-to partner for enterprises looking to modernize freight operations and optimize performance.”

“Transportation networks are becoming more complex, and our customers need solutions that can keep pace,” said Matt Everson, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at IntelliTrans. “IntelliTrans is investing in technology that helps them turn that complexity into a competitive advantage. The new brand represents that focus and reflects our commitment to empowering shippers to gain visibility, act faster, and build smarter, more connected supply chains.”

Hitachi Rail

Hitachi Rail has been named one of the Greater Toronto’s Top Employers, in Canada’s Top 100 Employers competition, the definitive annual list of the country’s best workplaces, for the seventh consecutive year.

Hitachi Rail employs more than 1,100 people in the Greater Toronto region and is home to the global engineering excellence center for the Urban Rail Signaling business.

Hitachi Rail’s SelTrac Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) solution, helps urban public transport operators to carry three billion passengers every year. This technology, the company says, will be used to power both the Ontario Line and Finch West LRT for the expansion of Toronto’s TTC system. ​Having created this technology in Toronto, this is the first time it will be deployed on a rail project in the city, Hitachi Rail noted.

“For more than 50 years in Canada, Hitachi Rail has been an engineering leader, supporting customers in transportation, having established its first Canada location in Toronto in the 1970s. Since those early beginnings, Hitachi Rail has been a strong partner of local businesses and a positive economic force in the region,” the company stated in a release.

Hitachi Rail is supporting a first-of-its-kind Railway Engineering Specialization at Ontario Tech University through the development of course content, providing student placement opportunities, and exploring joint research and development options. This partnership will also allow Hitachi Rail to provide student learning opportunities through rail-related guest lectures in courses, student capstone projects and recruitment initiatives.

“Being named a top employer in Toronto is a testament to our people and the culture they’ve helped create,” said Hitachi Rail in Canada President Ziad Rizk. “This underscores our ongoing commitment to creating a livable city through our contributions in public transit and infrastructure. But most importantly, this is about supporting our people with a workplace where they can thrive.”

RugGear/Swift Navigation

Swift Navigation, a global leader in precise positioning technology, and RugGear, a leading manufacturer of rugged mobile devices for professional use, on Dec. 2 announced a strategic partnership to embed high-accuracy positioning capabilities into RugGear’s enterprise and mission-critical mobile devices.

For organizations managing complex industrial, logistics, and public safety operations, location accuracy is paramount to safety and compliance, Swift Navigation noted in a release. Errors of just a few meters (common with standard GPS) can lead to missed deliveries, safety hazards, equipment placement errors, and invalid proof-of-service claims. This partnership, the company says, “directly addresses the need for reliable, high-accuracy positioning in the field.”

The partnership integrates Swift Navigation’s Skylark Precise Positioning Service directly into RugGear devices built on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen Platform. This native integration delivers reliable lane-level accuracy—an order of magnitude improvement over standard GPS—without requiring any external receiver or configuration. Precise positioning is available out-of-the-box, “ensuring seamless performance across rugged mobile form factors,” the company said.

This integration, Swift Navigation say, “is a major step in bringing high-accuracy positioning to industrial mobility.” All location-based applications benefit automatically, meaning developers do not need to modify their existing apps.

Swift’s Skylark is a cloud-based service that improves standard GNSS accuracy from several meters to centimeter level, uniquely architected for reliable, affordable mass-market scale.

Skylark’s differentiated capabilities, the company says, “ensure superior performance in mission-critical environments: Swift’s proprietary atmospheric model delivers accuracy everywhere. The service is highly reliable thanks to a carrier-operated network and AWS-based cloud architecture, which provides unparalleled scalability, supporting the rapid deployment of RugGear devices globally. Finally, the ecosystem-based design simplifies integration, making high-accuracy positioning affordable and reducing total cost of ownership.”

The first featured device to integrate the technology is the RG940, a high-performance, rugged 10.1-inch tablet, specifically designed for the most demanding industrial uses.

This high accuracy, the company says, is essential for improving operational efficiency and accountability across enterprise segments:

• “Rail: Enhances safety and efficiency for trains and prevents freight car loading errors.
• “Logistics & Waste Management: Optimizes routes, reduces fuel costs, and provides indisputable proof of service records for liability claims.
• “Construction: Provides a value-engineered approach for GIS mapping assets and enhances worker safety through geo-fenced ‘no-go’ zones.”

“Rugged mobility demands two things: reliability in the harshest conditions and the precision required for critical tasks,” said Holger Ippach, EVP of Product and Marketing at Swift Navigation. “By integrating Skylark directly onto RugGear’s Snapdragon-based devices, we are transforming the capabilities of mobile enterprise solutions. Professionals can now have lane-level accurate data in their hands, instantly improving safety, efficiency, and compliance.”

“Our customers operate where device failure or location error is simply not an option,” said Jeff Liu, Vice President of RugGear. “The integration of Swift Navigation’s Skylark into our rugged portfolio, starting with the RG940, moves high-accuracy GNSS from a specialty tool to a standard, native capability, unlocking next-generation enterprise applications for our industrial and public safety users.”

Burns Engineering

Burns Engineering on Dec. 2 announced that it has received a strategic investment from private equity firm OceanSound Partners. Burns Engineering’s existing leadership, management, and employees, led by President and CEO Matthew Burns and SVP and COO John Burns, have retained a significant ownership interest in the company and will continue in their roles, according to a release. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 1960, Burns is a leading provider of specialized engineering, technical design and consulting services to the aviation, rail, power, utility, higher education, mission-critical, and healthcare end markets. The company’s capabilities span electrical, mechanical, and technology systems engineering—core disciplines that support the existing modernization and buildout of next-generation infrastructure. With more than 360 employees in 13 offices, “Burns is a trusted partner for leading agencies, asset owners, and infrastructure operators with a proven ability to deliver complex, mission-critical projects that enhance reliability and efficiency of essential systems,” said the company, which is recognized as one of the top 20 electrical design firms in the U.S. by Electrical Construction & Maintenance Magazine and ranked #30 on the MEP Giants list of top MEP firms in North America.

“For more than six decades, Burns has built trusted, long-term relationships by solving our clients’ most complex engineering challenges,” said Matthew Burns. “The pace of change across our end markets—from electrification and grid modernization to the expansion of digital and transportation infrastructure—is creating unprecedented opportunities for firms with deep technical expertise and trusted client relationships. OceanSound’s experience in critical infrastructure and engineering services makes them an ideal partner as we enter this next chapter of growth.”

“Our success is driven by deep technical expertise, a commitment to client service, and a culture that empowers our people to innovate on behalf of our customers. Together with OceanSound, we will strengthen the capabilities and resources that have earned Burns its reputation for reliability, collaboration, and project excellence—creating even greater value for our clients and new tools to attract and retain the best talent,” added John Burns.

“Investment in the modernization and resilience of U.S. infrastructure continues to accelerate, creating strong, long-term demand for specialized engineering and technology services,” said OceanSound CEO and Founder Joe Benavides. “At the same time, the U.S. faces a significant shortage of mechanical and electrical engineering expertise required to support this transformation. Burns plays a vital role in bridging that gap—designing the electrical, power, and technology systems that enable electrification, grid modernization, and the rapid buildout of AI-driven infrastructure. We’re excited to partner with the Burns team to scale their capabilities and expand their impact across these mission-critical markets.”

“Burns’ deep technical expertise and longstanding customer relationships have made it a trusted name in critical infrastructure engineering,” said Ocean Sound Principal Addison Nordin. “We look forward to helping Burns accelerate growth through targeted initiatives and highly strategic acquisitions that deepen its presence in complex, fast-growing end markets and expand its geographic reach. By pairing Burns’ strong momentum with disciplined M&A execution, we can build an even more differentiated industry leader and create meaningful long-term value for clients, employees, and shareholders.”

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP served as legal advisor to OceanSound. Venable LLP served as legal advisor and Chesapeake Corporate Advisors (CCA) served as financial advisor to Burns.

The post Supply Side: IntelliTrans, Hitachi Rail, RugGear/Swift Navigation, Burns Engineering appeared first on Railway Age.

MBTA

The joint venture (JV) of MBTA, Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), and Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is seeking a developer for a mixed-use transit-oriented development project at the Anderson Regional Transportation Center (RTC) in Woburn. MBTA on Dec. 1 reported that a Request for Proposals has been released.

Responses are due by March 24, 2026. A JV selection committee will evaluate the proposals before recommending a developer for designation by the three agencies’ respective Boards.

The City of Woburn has advanced planning and economic development efforts in the area surrounding RTC, setting the stage for a development opportunity, which MBTA said will complement the existing transportation operations while providing additional housing options within the Woburn community.

The JV-owned Anderson RTC is a 26-acre multi-modal transportation facility that for more than two decades has supported high-occupancy vehicle transportation services. It features a train/bus station and surface parking, and benefits from nearby access to I-93 and I-95 and a rail connection to North Station in Boston. Service is provided by the MBTA Commuter Rail’s Lowell Line; Amtrak’s Downeaster from Boston to Brunswick, Maine; and the Woburn Logan Express bus to Logan International Airport.

Earlier this year, the JV sought Expressions of Interest from developers “to better understand the site’s development potential, particularly given its unique environmental characteristics and current market conditions,” according to MBTA. After receiving multiple responses, the JV “believes the RTC offers a compelling transit-oriented development opportunity for a qualified developer able to navigate complex environmental regulations,” the transit agency reported. “Offering prospective residents a 25-minute trip from Anderson/Woburn station on the MBTA Lowell Commuter Rail Line to downtown Boston at North Station, the transit-oriented development opportunity has the potential to accommodate a mix of housing and other uses across up to six acres while improving connectivity and reflecting the City of Woburn’s broader planning vision.”

Further Reading:

• Keolis, IBEW Reach Tentative Agreement
• MBTA: $850MM to Enhance Safety, Reliability
• Eng Named Interim MassDOT Secretary
• Eng to Duffy: ‘Safety is Integral to Everything We Do at the MBTA’

NJT (Courtesy of NJT)

NJT on Dec. 2 reported partnering with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey to explore opportunities to redevelop Penn Plaza East—the transit agency’s former headquarters building adjacent to the historic Newark Penn Station—into a potential mixed-use development. The project, NJT said, is a two-phase process that also includes a new headquarters for Horizon in downtown Newark.

NJT, through its real estate broker Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. (JLL), in conjunction with CBRE representing Horizon, is inviting potential developers to register their interest by Dec. 31, 2025.

Interested developers who request a copy of the Confidential Information Memorandum may be invited to attend a future Information Sharing Event hosted by JLL and CBRE. The event, NJT said, will provide further details of the anticipated project timeline and allow JLL and CNRE to answer questions.

Led by JLL and CBRE, NJT envisions its former headquarters and Horizon headquarters at 1 Penn Plaza East and 3 Penn Plaza East, “as a prime opportunity for premier mixed-use, multi-housing development on three acres with sweeping, unobstructed views of the Passaic River and Manhattan skyline.” The development would also offer access to historic Newark Penn Station and be within proximity to Newark’s historic Ironbound neighborhood. Located within the city’s Newark River Redevelopment Plan, it could accommodate up to 1,000 units of residential development in addition to integrated retail and structured parking, according to NJT.

“The redevelopment of our former headquarters property is a key step in advancing our real estate strategy and our commitment to unlocking new value from our assets,” NJT President and CEO Kris Kolluri said. “Aligned with the recent launch of our LAND Plan, this project reflects our disciplined approach to generating incremental revenue for NJT, while contributing to economic growth across the state and in cities such as Newark through new jobs, housing and long-term investment.”

“Horizon is excited to work together with NJT to support the [Newark] mayor’s vision and create new opportunities that bring more residents and retail businesses to the area around Penn Station,” commented Doug Falduto, Horizon’s Vice President Administration and Chief Security Officer. “We have called Newark home since our founding nearly 100 years ago. An essential element of this plan is a new headquarters to be built and financed by the developer that allows Horizon to remain in Newark and continue to serve our members in the most financially responsible way possible.”

Further Reading:

• NJT Slates $917MM Multilevel I, II Overhaul
• NJT Releases RFQ for Northern Rail MOW Facility
• NJT Sets FY26 Ops Budget, Authorizes Capex Funding
• NJT BLET Rank-and-File Ratify Deal

WMATA Attending the Dec. 2 groundbreaking ceremony for the New Carrollton affordable housing development were officials from WMATA and developer Urban Atlantic, Maryland Housing and other groups. (Courtesy of WMATA)

Construction is now under way on a new four-phase, 364-unit affordable housing development at New Carrollton, Md., the first phase of which includes 112 homes for seniors, WMATA reported Dec. 2. This construction is the next step in a master planned redevelopment of the New Carrollton station into a transit-centered community.

This new phase of affordable housing development was made possible in part by funding from the Prince George’s County Housing Investment Trust Fund, the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Rental Housing Works program, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits from the State of Maryland, according to WMATA.

(Courtesy of WMATA)

Once complete, it will join recent additions at New Carrollton, including the Kaiser Permanente office building, The Stella’s 282 units, The Margaux’s 291 attainable homes, and Metro’s (WMATA’s) Building at New Carrollton.

According to WMATA, additional improvements are under way across the station area, including a wetland restoration project and a federally funded upgrade to the transit hub through a BUILD Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The project will support the construction of a new train hall, prepare the site for the arrival of the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Maryland Transit Administration’s (MTA) Purple Line, and create new trails and walkways to improve pedestrian and bike access to the station.

“The transformation of the New Carrollton station and its surrounding areas is a tangible example of how investments in transit build community,” WMATA General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke said. “In a few short years, the joint development agreement has added close to 600 housing units, 3,500 square feet of retail space, 500,000 square feet of commercial office space, new parking, and will soon add regional connection via the Purple Line and improved Amtrak. These projects are a great example of the power of public-private partnership.”

“Urban Atlantic is excited to celebrate the start of construction on this important phase of affordable housing at the New Carrollton station,” said Alan Lederman, Managing Director of Development at Urban Atlantic. “The continuing support of Prince George’s County, the State of Maryland, and WMATA has allowed Urban Atlantic to create a truly unique transit-oriented development that serves all residents of Prince George’s County with a variety of housing options. We are looking forward to not just delivering these new homes, but are looking beyond, to the future, and working with our public partners to complete improvements to the Metro [WMATA] station and public amenities that serve all county residents.”

Further Reading:

• WMATA Breaks Ground on Mixed-Use Community at West Falls Church Station
• Report: DC Rail Extension Eyed for New Commanders Stadium Project

BART (Courtesy of BART)

BART on Dec. 2 reported that fares will increase Jan. 1, 2026, “to keep pace with inflation so the agency is able to pay for continued operations and to work toward restoring financial stability.” BART said that its “current funding model relies on passenger fares to pay for operations, and fares continue to be an important funding source to meet the needs of riders who rely on BART and to attract new riders.”

The agency in March sought the public’s input on the fare increase. 

Fares will increase 6.2% based upon actual inflation in 2023 and 2024, according to the transit agency. The average fare will increase $0.30, from $4.88 to $5.18. For a short trip like Downtown Berkeley to 19th St./Oakland, the regular fare will increase by $0.15, and for a longer trip, such as the 45-mile journey between Antioch to Montgomery, it’s a $0.55 increase.  

The fare increase is expected to raise $15.6 million for Calendar Year 2026, BART reported.

The agency said it is also changing parking prices effective Jan. 1, 2026. 

“BART needs a reliable, long-term source of operating funding,” it said. “The agency’s current funding model relies on passenger fares to pay for operations, an outdated model that is no longer feasible due to remote work. Even with the fare increase, BART faces a deficit of $376 million in FY27. The agency must modernize its funding sources to better align with other transit systems in the country that receive larger amounts of public funding.”

BART pointed out that its costs have grown at a rate lower than inflation, “demonstrating we have held the line on spending,” and BART balanced the FY26 budget with $35 million in ongoing cuts and strict cost controls. In the FY27 budget which begins July 1, 2026, BART said it will institute cost savings and deferrals of $108 million to maintain current service levels and produce a balanced budget. In addition, it said it is running shorter trains to save “millions of dollars on energy costs,” and its service schedule better matches ridership. BART said is has implemented a “strategic hiring freeze, targeted reductions to operating costs across departments, renegotiated with unions to reduce near-term retiree healthcare costs, and locked in low energy costs through long-term contracts.”

“As we ask the region for greater investments and support for BART while also making internal cuts to reduce costs, we also must ask our riders to contribute more towards their trips,” BART Board President Mark Foley commented. “We will continue our commitment to enhance efficiencies and implement strict cost controls.”  

Further Reading:

• MARTA, BART Budgets Approved for FY26
• BART: ‘Getting Our Budget in Order’
• Watch: BART Constructs New Power Substation in San Francisco

Amtrak (Courtesy of Amtrak)

Amtrak on Dec. 1 officially restored direct rail service on the Lake Shore Limited between Albany-Rensselaer and Boston. A landslip near Albany forced the closure of the Post Road Branch earlier this year. Buses had transported riders between these two cities, while Amtrak said its crews “worked hard six days a week, 10 hours a day to get the tracks ready for service.”

“This restoration was a true collaboration,” Amtrak said. “We’re grateful to our partners in New York State, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the Federal Railroad Administration for their commitment to reconnecting the Capital Region with New England. We are delighted to welcome the more than 80,000 guests who rely on this route back on board.”

The schedule is:

• Train 449 departs Boston at 12:50 p.m., arriving in Albany at 6:10 p.m.
• Train 448 leaves Albany at 3:27 p.m., pulling into Boston at 8:32 p.m.

The Lake Shore Limited stops daily in Pittsfield, Mass.

Further Reading:

• For Amtrak, ‘A Year of Records’
• Empire State Corridor Service Restored, Improved
• Multiple Factors Impacting Amtrak Long-Distance Trains

GCRTA System_Map_MainDownload

Effective Dec. 19, 2025, customer Wi-Fi will be discontinued on all GCRTA buses, trolleys and trains, the transit agency reported Dec. 2. The move, it said, “is a part of cost savings efforts previously announced by GCRTA in managing budgets in 2025 and 2026.”

Customer Wi-Fi will continue to be available 24/7 at the following GCRTA stations and transit centers:

• Tower City Station
• Cedar University Station
• East 55th St. Station
• Louis Stokes/Windermere Station
• East 79th St. Station
• Stephanie Tubbs Jones Transit Center

These stations will be affected:

• Cedar – University Rapid Station
• E. 55 Rapid Station
• E. 79 (Red Line) Rapid Station
• Louis Stokes / Windermere Rapid Station
• Stephanie Tubbs Jones Transit Center
• Tower City Rapid Station

Further Reading:

• Siemens Mobility Lands Another GCRTA Order
• GCRTA Celebrates 50 Years of Service

The post Transit Briefs: MBTA, NJT, WMATA, BART, Amtrak, GCRTA appeared first on Railway Age.

For the week ending Nov. 29, 2025, total U.S. rail traffic came in at 431,435 carloads and intermodal units, comprising 197,955 carloads, up 4.3% compared with the same week in 2024, and 233,480 containers and trailers, down 6.5% compared with 2024, AAR reported.

Six of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase vs. the same week in 2024. They included coal, up 4,818 carloads, to 56,972; nonmetallic minerals, up 2,858 carloads, to 23,353; and grain, up 2,424 carloads, to 21,019. Commodity groups that posted declines included miscellaneous carloads, down 1,046 carloads, to 6,769; forest products, down 849 carloads, to 6,848; and chemicals, down 679 carloads, to 29,583.

For the first 48 weeks of 2025, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 10,660,309 carloads, rising 1.8% from the prior-year period; and 12,997,055 intermodal units, increasing 1.9% from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 48 weeks of this year was 23,657,364 carloads and intermodal units, a 1.9% gain over 2024.

North American rail volume for the week ending Nov. 29, 2025, on nine reporting U.S., Canadian, and Mexican railroads totaled 302,151 carloads, up 3.1% compared with the same week last year, and 320,076 intermodal units, down 3.7% compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 622,227 carloads and intermodal units, down 0.5%. North American rail volume for the first 48 weeks of this year came in at 32,578,167 carloads and intermodal units, a 1.7% increase from 2024.

For the week ending Nov. 29, 2025, Canadian railroads reported 90,821 carloads, rising 2.6%, and 71,365 intermodal units, increasing 2.1% from the prior-year period. For the first 48 weeks of this year, they reported cumulative rail traffic volume of 7,781,352 carloads, containers, and trailers, up 2.3%.

Mexican railroads reported 13,375 carloads for the week ending Nov. 29, 2025, a drop off of 8.9% from the same week last year, and 15,231 intermodal units, an increase of 19.4%. Their cumulative volume for the first 48 weeks of this year was 1,139,451 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, down 5.4% from the same point in 2024.

Further Reading:

• AAR: North American Rail Volume Up Through Week 47
• AAR: Mixed Results for U.S. Rail Traffic
• New AAR Analysis Underscores Freight Rail’s ‘Critical Role’ in Containing Inflation and Strengthening Supply Chains

(Courtesy of CN)

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Officials and individuals from the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), Jackson County Economic Foundation (JCEDF), the Jackson County Board of Supervisors, the Jackson County Port Authority, and Chevron Corporation joined BWC Terminals (BWC) on Dec. 2 for a groundbreaking ceremony celebrating the construction of BWC’s newest terminal facility in Pascagoula, Miss.

The new facility, which, the company says, “supports BWC’s significant growth trajectory as it continues to expand across the United States, with ongoing construction projects currently under way in Baltimore, Jacintoport, and Manchester,” will be built on the former Mississippi Phosphates Corporation and will initially include seven above-ground storage tanks, with an expected operational date in the fall of 2026. BWC’s construction plan for the initial buildout and future buildouts will be done so in connection with the approved remediation activities by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The terminal is being built and operated to support an agreement with Chevron Products Company to receive, store, and deliver petroleum products for the nearby Chevron Pascagoula Refinery. The refinery, BWC says, will benefit from increased storage and throughput of various feedstocks as well.

In addition to the storage tanks, the terminal will include direct pipeline connectivity to the refinery, unit train unloading capabilities and connectivity to marine infrastructure to load/unload ships and barges. To support these operational activities, BWC says it plans to offer a minimum of 25 new employment opportunities within the first two years of operation.

Port Pascagoula rail service begins at the terminals of the Pascagoula River and Bayou Casotte Harbors affording efficient port-rail connections. Pascagoula rail service links are CSX direct and access to CN via the short line carrier Mississippi Export Railroad.

“This groundbreaking marks a significant strategic milestone for BWC Terminals, enhancing our presence along the Gulf Coast,” said BWC Terminals President and CEO Adam Smith. “We would like to thank our partners—the State of Mississippi, MDA, JCEDF, the Board of Supervisors, the Port and Chevron—for their collaborative efforts and strategic planning that made this new facility possible. We are eager to unlock long-term growth opportunities that will not only benefit our organization but also positively impact the local community by creating jobs and fostering economic development.”

“We welcome BWC Terminals to Jackson County and look forward to their continued success in partnership with Chevron Products Company. BWC’s strategic location in Jackson County is a testament to a community whose diverse economy supports employers like Chevron and logistics and distribution suppliers like BWC,” said George Freeland, Executive Director, Jackson County Economic Development Foundation.

The post BWC Breaks Ground on New Miss. Terminal Facility appeared first on Railway Age.

The research, from the association’s Policy and Economics team, “highlights how railroads’ structural and operational advantages—such as predictable pricing, resilience following disruptions and unmatched fuel efficiency—power a transportation solution that keeps costs in check and goods moving. Representing nearly 40% of long-distance freight by ton-miles, rail’s price stability delivers significant macroeconomic benefits—namely taming inflation,” according to the AAR.

“Freight rail is more than a transportation mode; it is a critical tool for controlling costs, mitigating inflation and keeping our economy moving,” said Rand Ghayad, AAR Senior Vice President of Policy and Economics. “This analysis shows those same advantages act as a shock absorber for consumers—keeping goods moving and costs predictable even during turbulent times.”

Drawing on three decades of federal data, industry performance metrics and sector case studies, the analysis (download below) “shows that railroads’ cost structure and operating model make them less vulnerable to volatility and better positioned to recover from supply chain shocks.” The analysis, AAR says, “underwent external expert review to ensure methodological soundness and clarity of findings.” Because rail primarily serves manufacturers for bulk and intermediate goods, cost fluctuations are less likely to reach consumers compared to trucking, which dominates last-mile and retail distribution. Longer business planning horizons and superior fuel efficiency further help railroads prevent cost spillovers that drive up consumer prices, the association noted.

Key findings from the analysis include:

• “A 10% acceleration in trucking cost growth correlates with a 2.3% rise in goods inflation, while a similar rise in rail cost growth results in just 0.7%.
• “Trucking cost shocks typically hit consumer prices within one to two months; rail cost changes are smaller, slower and fade faster.”

Beyond price impacts, railroads’ operational resilience reduces the need for emergency trucking, storage charges and local disruptions that can compound into national price spikes, according to the analysis. During the COVID-19 pandemic and port congestion, rail transit times briefly increased but quickly normalized. For example, on the busy Los Angeles–Chicago intermodal corridor, transit times peaked at six days but rapidly returned to 4-5 days, ensuring inland movement without driving up shipping costs.

This resilience, AAR says, “is built on sustained investments and long-term planning with customers across sectors such as agriculture and energy.” Ahead of harvest season, railroads make forward commitments to absorb seasonal peaks and keep rates predictable—moving 25% of domestic grain and 40% of exports. In energy, rail reliably transports three-quarters of U.S. coal, helping reduce inflationary pressure on household energy bills, according to the analysis.

Rail’s fuel efficiency not only supports sustainability but also lowers costs, the association noted. On average, Class I railroads move one ton of freight 480-500 miles per gallon of fuel, about three to four times more efficient than trucks. Since 2000, railroads have improved fuel efficiency by 22%, reducing exposure to energy price fluctuations. If just 20% of long-haul heavy-truck freight shifted to rail, annual savings could reach $13 billion in fuel and $11 billion in reduced congestion and highway damage—benefits that ultimately flow to shippers, taxpayers and consumers, according to the analysis.

AAR-PE-Supply-Chain-Resilience-Report-2025-FINALDownload

The post New AAR Analysis Underscores Freight Rail’s ‘Critical Role’ in Containing Inflation and Strengthening Supply Chains appeared first on Railway Age.

Association of American Railroads (AAR) subsidiary Railinc on Dec. 2 reported rolling out a Rail Industry GIS (RIGIS) Routing + Mileage application.

RIGIS is described as “the central repository for North American railroad spatial locations and accurate mileage data on the railroad network.” It provides regulatory, financial settlement, and safety benefits for stakeholders including shippers, car owners, railroads, and local first responders. With its “unique routing and mileage tool, RIGIS allows users to visualize and analyze routes with a high degree of accuracy,” according to Railinc. “When an origin and destination are entered, the application displays the carriers involved and breaks down the mileage by state. Users can refine results by selecting preferred carriers or build their own routes with multiple network locations, including the ability to require junctions at specific interchange locations. The underlying API is highly scalable and highly available, ensuring reliable performance under heavy loads.”

This new routing capability, Railinc said, “strengthens industry data quality and ensures consistency in mileage calculations.” As rail networks evolve, the system is said to update station information, recalculate mileage, and provide railroads with a “standardized, authoritative source for routing and mileage data.” Additionally, the system simplifies system integration, reduces cost and redundancy for railroads, and allows any user—via the API—to incorporate open-source route visualizations into their own mapping applications, according to the Cary, N.C.-based company.

The AAR GIS Committee and Railinc partnered on the RIGIS Routing + Mileage application, and its development is the result of “validation and adjudication activities that resolved discrepancies between railroad data across North America,” according to Railinc.

“This is a new standard for industry location identification and mileage calculations,” Railinc Senior GIS Manager Brent Kastor said.

Further Reading:

• MineHub, Railinc Partner to Enhance Rail Shipment Tracking Data Capabilities
• Railinc, Duke University Collaborate on Innovation to Advance Freight Rail Efficiency
• Freight Rail AI Evolution
• TransmetriQ Launches ‘Ocean to Rail Visibility’ Tool

The post Railinc Launches RIGIS Routing + Mileage Application appeared first on Railway Age.

The Ideas Challenge—short for the Advanced Research Projects Agency–Infrastructure (ARPA-I) Ideas and Innovation Challenge—was announced in August and will award winners a total of $1 million in prizes across two stages.  

For Stage 1 of this challenge, ARPA-I received 448 concept paper submissions, according to the USDOT. From those, 15 winners were selected and announced Dec. 2 as semi-finalists (see list below), who will be awarded $20,000 each ($300,000 total) and invited to present and further refine their ideas with business and government stakeholders at the USDOT Innovation Workshop. The Innovation Workshop will be held Dec. 9, 2025, at USDOT Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

(Courtesy of USDOT)

In Stage 2, semi-finalists from Stage 1 will be eligible to submit a detailed proposal and up to 10 will be selected as finalists to advance to the ARPA-I Ideas Challenge Finals in 2026, according to the USDOT. The finalists will present their project proposal to a panel of judges and audience members from the public and private sectors to compete for Stage 2 prizes that total $700,000.

The objective of the MetaRE Inc.-Arup project, “Next-gen Smart Sensors Turn Every Train into an Inspector,” is to “demonstrate the viability of novel technologies to detect rails [track] in unacceptable condition at full track speeds,” according to the companies’ one-page summary document. “We estimate that rail operators in the US pay at least $1B per year to inspect rail, logging 10 million inspection-miles per year at a cost of $100 per inspection-mile. Even using today’s fastest platforms for continuous testing, it takes over 19 train-days to inspect a transcontinental corridor, which a revenue service train can travel in less than half that time. We propose to deliver a system to significantly reduce the cost and increase the speed of performing visual inspections of rail.” The system, they said, is “an autonomous, non-contact inspection system based on light and millimeter waves to detect unacceptable wear and external flaws in rail,” and “can be mounted to revenue service equipment and operated at track speeds, allowing inspections twice as fast as currently possible and without any disruption to rail operations.” The team estimates that its system “could reduce the cost per inspection-mile by up to 99%.”

“By providing near-continuous monitoring of any track in revenue service, our system of small, low-cost train-mounted sensors could support remote and AI-enabled rail inspections, the development of digital twins, and robust preventative maintenance programs,” MetaRE Inc. and Arup reported. “The system would also neatly complement traditional ultrasonic inspections for internal defects. It would outperform expensive laser monitoring systems and data-heavy digital imagery systems on cost, capability, ease of implementation, and upside for further innovation. The system uses two subsystems in tandem, one based on millimeter waves (mm-waves) and the other on visible light waves, to detect rail wear and defects in real time at full track speeds. The mm-wave subsystem launches a mm-wave towards the rail to monitor its transverse profile. It captures the reflected waves and converts them into a digital ‘barcode’ that is characteristic of the rail transverse profile. A string of ‘barcodes’ thus generated in real time as the train travels is much less ‘data-heavy’ than other formats, such as high-resolution digital images. This allows for instantaneous diagnosis of the segment of rail in view by a simple comparison between the generated barcode with the one that corresponds to an acceptable rail transverse profile. The mm-wave subsystem is synchronized to GPS to log the exact location of a defect or excessive wear. A fault detection event immediately switches on the optical subsystem further back on the train, which operates as a depth imager to produce an accurate 3D reconstruction of the worn or defective section of the rail. The identified fault can then be verified and classified by a remote observer, either human or AI.”

The MetaRE Inc.-Arup project team includes Nanfang Yu, a Columbia University professor and an inventor of nanophotonic technologies, and Adam Jaffe, a senior engineer at Arup with a background in nanoscience and a focus on commercializing nanotechnologies with applications in the built environment.

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The STB in September granted Metra’s application for terminal trackage rights to continue service over three lines owned by host freight railroad UP. Metra and UP have been negotiating the transfer of commuter rail services on the three lines—the Union Pacific North, Northwest, and West—for several years. UP has historically provided service for Metra under a PSA (Purchase of Service Agreement), which has been extended several times while the railroads negotiate a new agreement.

Approximately 39% of Metra’s annual ridership (13.7 million out of a total 35 million passengers) is associated with the three lines owned, used and dispatched by UP (see map, below). Those lines were once operated by the Chicago & North Western Railway: the West Line to Elburn, the Northwest Line to Harvard and McHenry, and the North Line to Waukegan, with limited service to Kenosha, Wis. Metra has eight other lines; one of which, the historic Chicago, Burlington & Quincy line to Aurora, runs on right-of-way owned by BNSF, which still operates it under contract with Metra.

(Courtesy of Metra)

“As directed in the [STB’s] September 3 Decision, and reflected in the Parties’ Joint Status Report filed on November 13, 2025, Metra and UP have been negotiating the conditions and compensation for Metra’s use of UP’s terminal facilities,” Metra told the STB in its Dec. 1 filing (download below). “The parties have exchanged drafts of a comprehensive Trackage Rights Agreement to govern Metra’s use of the UP Lines and have exchanged multiple offers on compensation and other terms. The parties have made progress and reached common ground on some elements. For example, Metra anticipates that it will be able to reach agreement with UP on issues including the effective date; maintenance fee; train schedules and special trains and service change requests; dispatching protocol; a joint services committee for ongoing coordination of operational, maintenance, and capital project matters; dispute resolution; and audits. While the parties continue to confer, it is clear at this point that the parties will not reach agreement on all remaining disputed issues in a way that would remove the need for Board involvement.”

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Because the STB’s September decision enables either party to request the Board’s establishment of compensation and/or conditions of use, Metra said it is doing so. Metra noted that it informed UP and “discussed the possibility of a joint request,” but UP declined.

“Compensation and the remaining disputed issues are too important and too material for Metra, the public it serves, and the taxpayers that provide critical funding for its transportation service to be left unresolved indefinitely,” the regional/commuter railroad reported. “Both UP and Metra have continued to operate cooperatively and safely on the UP Lines since the parties’ Purchase of Service Agreement (‘PSA’) expired on June 30, 2025. The Board has acted, as needed, when issues have arisen. … UP has asserted on review that ‘hosting passenger service on a freight-rail network is too important, complex, and potentially dangerous to undertake without clear terms governing dispatching, maintenance, liability, indemnity, and many other topics.’ … Metra agrees that Board involvement, as requested here, to establish the conditions and compensation for Metra’s ongoing use of the UP Lines, is necessary and appropriate.”

The key issues to be determined, Metra said, cover: the scope of the trackage rights; length of term; trackage rights fee “under the SSW Compensation formula,” how the fee is adjusted over time, and treatment of Metra’s capital contributions; performance standards; and liability, indemnification, and claims handling. While these issues are not the only ones unresolved, “they are the most consequential and bear on the other areas of disagreement,” according to Metra.

The regional/commuter railroad stressed that it “intends to remain engaged in negotiations with UP during this second phase of the proceeding and will continue to work with UP toward narrowing the issues for final resolution by the Board.”

Metra also proposed the following procedural schedule:

(Courtesy of Metra)

The next move: The STB’s.

Further Reading:

• STB Grants Metra’s ‘Terminal Trackage Rights’ Application
• Reports: UP Takes Metra to Court
• STB Denies Metra’s Request for Temporary Injunction
• Metra to STB: Ensure Passenger Service on UP Lines ‘Continues Uninterrupted’
• UP, Metra Move Closer to Service Transfer
• STB Orders Mediation for UP, Metra
• Judge Pronounces Common Carrier Obligation for ‘Commuter Rail’ Dead
• Report: RTA Redirects Funds From Metra, Pace to Prevent CTA Service Reductions

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The official handover will take place on Dec. 8 at the Calumet City Public Safety Training Center, located at 24 State Street in Calumet City. The rail tank car will become a permanent asset at the training center, “ensuring that first responders are better prepared for emergency responses involving rail tank cars and hazardous materials,” UTLX noted.

(UTLX)

Headquartered in Chicago along with its parent company, Marmon Holdings, UTLX “recognizes the vital role first responders play in protecting the public and responding to rail-related incidents,” the company said.

“This rail tank car donation will provide invaluable hands-on training opportunities for Chicagoland firefighters and emergency personnel,” said UTLX President Neil Finn. “We’re proud to support the fire department as they prepare to respond safely and effectively to real-world scenarios involving rail tank cars.”

(UTLX)

“Rail incidents are complex, and firefighters need to understand the real hazards they’ll face in the field,” said Lt. Matt Drew of the Chicago Fire Department. “This rail tank car gives us the ability to practice safe, methodical response techniques before we ever encounter a true emergency, which ultimately protects both our firefighters and the community.”

Members of the media are invited to attend the handover event, which will feature representatives from UTLX, the Chicago and Calumet City Fire Departments, and Hulcher Services Inc., whose expertise, the company says, “was essential in coordinating the logistics of this donation.”

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The report (download below), the Class I says, “reflects CN’s progress and outlines actions taken to strengthen operation excellence by further tying sustainability to the core of its business strategy.”

“Delivering Responsibly is at the heart of how CN operates and grows,” said CN President and CEO Tracy Robinson. “This report highlights our commitment to powering the economy safely and sustainably. I want to thank our employees, customers, suppliers, and the communities in which we operate for their continued collaboration as we work together to build a safer, stronger, and more sustainable future.”

Key highlights from the 2024 Delivering Responsibly Report:

• “Environment: Achieved a 4% improvement in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions intensity compared to 2023 and increased renewable fuel use to nearly 10% of locomotive fuel. CN maintained progress toward its science-based 2030 and 2050 ambitions.
• “Safety: Recorded the second-best injury performance in CN’s history and improved train accident frequency by nearly 8% year over year and deployed enhanced behavior-based safety training to identify and control workplace safety risks for frontline supervisors.
• “People: Delivered more than 1 million hours of training, expanded accessibility upgrades across more than 30 facilities in Canada, and strengthened wellness programs for employees.
• “Community: Contributed approximately $20 million to community initiatives, managed more than 56,000 public line inquiries, and trained 97% of CN’s Procurement and Supply Management team on sustainable procurement.
• “Governance: Ranked first among 215 companies on the S&P/TSX Composite Index for governance practices, reinforcing CN’s commitment to integrity and transparency.”

As CN moves forward on its sustainability journey, the Class I says it recognizes that “collaboration is essential to success.” Through its EcoConnexions Partnership Program, CN recognized more than 30 customers, suppliers, and supply chain partners for their leadership in sustainability.

These organizations, CN says, “are helping drive progress on climate action, reduce environmental impact, and promote responsible business practices. CN believes that collaboration across the value chain is essential to building a more sustainable future.”

Recipients of CN’s 2025 EcoConnexions Partnership Program in alphabetical order are as follows:

delivering-resp-2024-enDownload

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Union Pacific updated investors Dec. 2 that its Surface Transportation Board filing to acquire Norfolk Southern will be pushed out two weeks due to “additional analysis from a contractor.” UP now expects to file its merger application with the STB in roughly two weeks (vs. our prior expectation of early December), putting a new date of Dec. 17-19. UP stated it doesn’t believe its earnings can grow in 4Q25 due to several factors heading into December, in line with our prior forecast, though below the current consensus estimate.

UP management called out its 4Q25 mix as being less favorable than previously expected, specifically lumber and specialized food and beverage, and will incur between $30MM and $40MM in merger related costs in 4Q25, with additional expense pressure from casualty items. It now expects earnings to decline y/y in 4Q25, which is worse than the consensus forecast calling for +1% earnings growth. Our current estimate of $2.80 (4% decline) remains intact vs. the $2.94 Street estimate. We expect consensus in 4Q25 to move lower toward our published number.

Western Class I competitor BNSF is asking the STB for a proceeding to examine anticompetitive behavior by UP from its Southern Pacific merger in 1996. BNSF says it still faces anti-competitive issues from a merger nearly 30 years ago years ago, and additional consolidation would exacerbate these problems. We believe BNSF is trying to shine as much light as it can on historical issues the Western rail has faced. We are surprised at the consistent noise BNSF is making ahead of this STB filing, particularly given our assumption that BNSF may inevitably be bidding for another Class I in the future if UP/NS is approved.

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CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles) has appointed Félix Fernández as the CEO of CAF USA, taking on overall responsibility for the rail and bus segments in the U.S. States and Canada. He will also oversee industrial operations in the U.S., including supply chain supervision, industrial footprint and after-sales service required for the contracts developed by the company in this market.

Fernández, with a career spanning more than 30 years in the sector and having held various executive positions, “brings deep knowledge of the U.S. market and will lead the profitable growth process and value creation for the CAF Group in North America in the coming years,” the company said.

CAF USA has rolling stock manufacturing facility in Elmira, N.Y., fully equipped with carshell fabrication and assembly and testing of rail vehicles, including climate testing. CAF noted it “has long history of supplying rolling stock to Amtrak and transit authorities in cities across the U.S.”: Washington D.C, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Houston, Boston, Cincinnati, Kansas City and Baltimore (Maryland MTA Purple Line which also includes Operation & Maintenance for 30 years). Currently CAF has an order backlog for Boston, Omaha and Kansas City.

“The United States is one of the world’s leading mobility markets, both in the rail and bus segments, and represents one of the greatest opportunities for growth and value creation for the CAF Group, looking toward 2030,” the company said. “Given its importance and strategic fit for CAF, as well as its global growth prospects, the company has decided to address opportunities and challenges in both segments with a comprehensive approach.”

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