Prototype News

BNSF General Director of Marketing Mark Ganaway recently joined officials from TXNW Railway (Texas North Western Railway Company), one of the Class I’s first Shortline Select partners, for a ribbon-cutting event. They were celebrating the expansion of interchange tracks in Sunray, Tex., according to BNSF’s Sept. 5 social media post.

The interchange project, completed in July, was funded through a 50/50 cost share between TXNW Railway and the Federal Railroad Administration, which awarded the short line $4.1 million through its Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program.

“BNSF’s Shortline Select program allows short line railroads to share our enduring commitment to growth and service by providing expanded opportunities for customers to reach an even broader consumer base,” BNSF said. “The program also combines the benefit of short line customized service with our vast network reach. BNSF looks forward to continuing this strong partnership for years to come.”

Among the other short lines in the program are: Burlington Junction Railway and Genesee & Wyoming’s Portland & Western Railroad and Alabama & Gulf Coast Railway.

UP has recognized Tehachapi, Calif., as the 134th community on its network to be named a “Train Town USA,” which it described as “a national recognition that underscores the city’s profound connection to railroading.”

“Tehachapi remains a vital artery in the country’s rail network,” UP Senior Director-Public Affairs Peggy Ygbuhay said during the railroad’s Sept. 5 announcement. “The town has an enduring legacy in American railroading history.”

Located just south of the Sequoia National Forest and just north of Los Angeles, UP said that Tehachapi is home to a railroad engineering marvel: the Tehachapi Loop. “The 0.73-mile section of track literally forms a circular loop, allowing the track to rise at a steady 2% grade,” according to the Class I railroad. “With a tunnel at the base of the loop and another track that passes above it at the other end, any train longer than 4,000 feet will pass over itself—an engineering feat and a rare sight to see.”

Designated a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1998, the Tehachapi Loop will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026.

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

VIA Rail Canada President CEO Mario Peloquin is a featured speaker at Next-Gen Rail Systems, the communications, signaling and advanced technology conference presented by Railway Age, and formerly known as Next-Gen Train Control. Peloquin’s presentation, “On Track to Tomorrow: VIA Rail’s Vision for a Safe, Modern, and Sustainable Passenger Rail Service,” will focus on advanced technology initiatives such as Enhanced Train Control (ETC) and new trainsets.

“VIA Rail is building the future of passenger rail in Canada,” says Peloquin. “We’re a Crown corporation that delivers more than 400 intercity passenger rail services connecting Canadians across more than 8,000 miles of track. Working in collaboration with our rail partners, VIA Rail plays a central role in ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility for communities across the country. ETC, Canada’s adaptation of advanced train safety systems, is a key part of the future of passenger rail in Canada. Designed to complement the expertise of train crews, ETC uses technology to further reduce the risk of human error and improve operational safety. VIA Rail is actively working with its partners, regulators, and technology providers to ensure a safe, harmonized rollout of these systems across the country.

“Introduction of 32 brand-new trainsets in central Canada and plans for the replacement of the Long Distance and Regional trains that serve Canadians, is a generational investment in Canada’s passenger rail system. These state-of-the-art trains bring greater efficiency, comfort, and accessibility for passengers, while supporting VIA Rail’s sustainability goals.”

Mario Péloquin, appointed VIA Rail President and CEO in June 2023, has 37 years of experience in the railway industry. At VIA, he is setting a clear roadmap for the future of Canadian passenger rail, aligning investments, technology and partnerships to deliver a world-class passenger rail experience for Canadians. By carefully navigating the technical, operational, and regulatory dimensions of modernization, VIA Rail is positioning itself as a cornerstone of sustainable transportation and a driver of innovation in Canadian mobility. Péloquin began his career as an operator and then a rail traffic controller before he rose to hold senior roles focused on rail safety at Transport Canada and the Transportation Safety Board. He then transitioned into executive positions with Siemens Mobility, AECOM, Thales Canada and the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority, leading significant and transformative transportation projects. Before joining VIA Rail, he was Executive Vice President, Major Projects for Paris-based Keolis Group. Péloquin believes profoundly that effective public transit is the key to solving many societal problems. His extensive experience and commitment to safety, operational efficiency, and innovative technology position him well to lead VIA Rail into a new era of innovation and operational excellence. Péloquin holds an MBA from the Université du Québec à Montréal. He has also served on the boards of the Canadian Consortium for Urban Transportation Research and Innovation (CUTRIC), the Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers (CARS), the Toronto Railway Club and the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA). 

“Next-Gen Rail Systems expands the focus of Next-Gen Train Control, the communications, signaling, and advanced technology conference presented by Railway Age since 1995,” says Editor-in-Chief William C. Vantuono. “The new name reflects the evolving state of rail technology. Over the years, rapid technological developments such as AI (artificial intelligence), deep data analysis, machine learning, cybersecurity and telematics have transformed train control to become just one element of a complex, integrated platform. That’s why we’ve expanded the program to encompass the entire system. Sessions will examine how signaling and train control is constantly undergoing improvements and enhancements that deliver better safety, functionality, interoperability, versatility, and reliability, at lower life-cycle costs.

“Next-Gen Rail Systems is an essential gathering for all those involved in the growing rail systems market—whether your focus is transit, main line passenger, or freight. We are proud to present a rebranded, expanded event that features the same in-depth technical sessions and comprehensive project updates that attendees have come to expect. This conference, since its inception, has always been a ‘must attend’ event.”

In addition to Mario Peloquin, leading experts in the NGRS lineup are keynote speaker Tom Prendergast, CEO of Gateway Development Commission; Kris Kolluri, President and CEO of New Jersey Transit; Dustin K. Lange, P.E., Senior Director of Engineering, Norfolk Southern, Mark Salsberg, Co-Principal of WDG Consulting; Michael Godfrey, Co-Principal and Chief Technology Officer, WGD Consulting; Matthew Kim, Assistant Vice President Enterprise Strategy, Canadian Pacific Kansas City; Wilson Milian, P.E., President and CEO of Milian Consultants, LLC; Pete Tomlin, Independent Consultant, Jonathan Kirby, Senior Director, NJT PTC, New Jersey Transit; Clarelle DeGraffe, General Manager, PATH; Steven Vant, Chief Signal Engineer, Conrail, Mike Palmer, Senior Project Manager, Parsons; Brian Yeager, Director Advanced Technology & Train Reliability, Norfolk Southern; Yousef Kimiagar, Vice President, Institution of Railway Signal Engineers; and Catherine Campbell-Wilson, Principal, StrategyFive.

Register now for Next-Gen Rail Systems, to be held Oct. 30-31, 2025, in Jersey City, N.J.

Railway Age conferences are known for providing valuable opportunities: networking with professionals from around the world; learning about innovative approaches to implementing advanced technologies; discovering new methods for procurement and contracting; providing input on standards development; becoming better-informed about ongoing and planned projects; and discovering what regulations are coming and how they could impact business.

Industry support for Next-Gen Rail Systems is strong, including sponsorships from: 4AI Systems, Alstom, CSA – Critical Systems Analysis, Hitachi Rail, HNTB, KB Signaling, Parsons, Piper, SATS, and Milian Consultants, LLC. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Jonathan Chalon at jchalon@sbpub.com or (212) 620-7224.

The post VIA’s Peloquin Featured at Next-Gen Rail Systems appeared first on Railway Age.

SMART’s Windsor Extension Project has been selected to receive the 2025 Outstanding Transportation Project Award from ASCE San Francisco Section.

This recognition, the agency says, “underscores the planning, engineering, and teamwork that went into extending SMART service north to Windsor. The project reflects years of collaboration among SMART staff, contractors, local agencies, and community partners, all working together to deliver a vital piece of regional infrastructure.”

“SMART is proud of the Windsor Extension Project team and grateful to the many partners who helped bring this project to life. This award not only celebrates the technical achievements of the project but also highlights its importance in expanding sustainable transportation options for the North Bay,” the agency added.

The Ontario government announced on Sept. 5 that it is breaking ground on the first of three stations for Metrolinx‘s Scarborough Subway Extension, “marking a significant milestone in the province’s plan to fight gridlock and bring rapid transit to tens of thousands of commuters across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).” The construction of the Scarborough Subway Extension, which will extend the Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) Line 2 subway service 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles), is expected to keep 3,000 workers on the job each year and will bring 38,000 people within walking distance of transit once complete.

Crews have started piling work at Scarborough Center Station, which will accommodate more than 10,000 passengers and facilitate more than 7,000 transfers during rush hour once complete, according to the province. The station will also include a new bus terminal with passenger pickup and drop-off spaces so riders can easily transfer between local buses and the new subway line.

Scarborough Center Station will be a major hub for the region, “seamlessly connecting the subway with the GO Transit bus network and other local services.” By making it easier to connect across the GTA, this new interchange will open up more economic opportunities and shorten travel times for nearly 30,000 students and staff at Centennial College Progress Campus and the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus, the province noted.

“The Scarborough Subway Extension is an important part of building a more connected region,” said Michael Coteau, Member of Parliament for Scarborough—Woburn, on behalf of Gregor Roberston, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure. “The federal government will continue to prioritize investing in key public transit infrastructure that makes it easier for Canadians to access their homes, jobs, schools and communities. I am thrilled to see work get underway on the Scarborough Centre Station and look forward to future progress.”

Ontario is investing nearly C$70 billion into transit projects across the GTA. As part of the Transportation Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the province is delivering the largest transit expansion in Canadian history with the Ontario Line, Scarborough Subway Extension, Eglinton Crosstown West Extension and Yonge North Subway Extension.

The post Transit Briefs: SMART, Scarborough Subway Extension appeared first on Railway Age.

The planned Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility, which is the “centerpiece” of the Port of Long Beach’s rail capital improvement program, will shift more cargo to “on-dock rail,” where containers are taken to and from marine terminals by trains. “Moving cargo by on-dock rail is cleaner and more efficient, as it reduces truck traffic. No cargo trucks would visit the facility,” the Port noted.

The facility will be built in phases and as each is completed, they will enhance capacity and operations. Construction began in 2024, and completion of the entire project is expected in 2032.

According to the Port of Long Beach, the modifications to the project would consist of relocating utilities and connections, adding construction staging and equipment laydown areas, adjusting rail tracks, pavement restriping, and closing portions of Grant Street and Southern Pacific Drive in Wilmington.

In addition, the Berths D52-D54 transit shed at 555 N. Pico Ave., would be reconfigured to accommodate realigning Pico Avenue. The shed has been determined to be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.

A virtual public hearing will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 24, at 6 p.m (PST). Written public comments on the proposal (download below) will be accepted until 4 p.m. (PST) on Monday, Oct. 20.

The post Port of Long Beach Releases Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility Draft Supplemental Study appeared first on Railway Age.

TrinityRail® stands as a leading force in North American rail shipping, with a portfolio exceeding 140,000 owned and managed railcars—including tank cars, autoracks, covered and open hoppers, box cars, gondolas, flat, and intermodal cars. As a comprehensive provider of railcar leasing, manufacturing, parts, maintenance, and logistics solutions, its platform supports the transportation of essential goods—such as grain, gravel, fuel, vehicles, and chemicals—that are vital for communities and the economy. It manufactures, maintains, and manages railcars to efficiently deliver these products from origin to destination.

With an unmatched commitment to its customers, TrinityRail leverages its platform and expertise to solve operational and logistical challenges.

TrinityRail’s early history was shaped by collaborative leadership and a problem-solving culture. Founded in 1944 as Trinity Steel in Dallas, the company initially focused on producing storage tanks for Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Butane. A 1958 merger with Dallas Tank marked a significant milestone, as Trinity Industries Inc. was officially born (the brand name TrinityRail was adopted in the early 2000s).

The company’s involvement in railcar manufacturing began in 1966 with an order from Union Tank Car. Previously focused solely on supplying tank components to other railcar manufacturers, Trinity fulfilled its first complete railcar contract during this period, but it wouldn’t dive into full-scale railcar production until 1977.

Throughout the 1970s, the company experienced other notable milestones, including its initial public offering on June 28, 1972, and it benefited from increased market demand for railcars driven by various external factors such as deregulation and geo-political events. By the end of the decade, the company would enter railcar leasing, a sector in which it would eventually become an industry leader. By the early 1980s, Trinity’s annual railcar production levels approached 6,000 units and its lease fleet exceeded 1,000 railcars.  

Today, with investments exceeding $7 billion, TrinityRail remains committed to meeting the evolving needs of the railroads and shippers of all sizes. With its cars often identified by “TILX” markings, it achieves annual revenues of nearly $3 billion from its broad platform of railcar products and services.

Following the divestiture of almost all non-rail operations and businesses in 2018 through the formation of Arcosa, Inc., TrinityRail has concentrated solely on delivering premier integrated rail solutions, with a particular emphasis on railcar leasing.

Growth has continued since 2020 under the leadership and strategic direction of President and CEO Jean Savage, with the focus of being a premier railcar leasing and solutions provider enhanced through the company’s manufacturing and services capabilities. Examples of the latter include the acquisitions of companies such as Holden America in 2022 and RSI Logistics in 2023, enabling TrinityRail to integrate industry-leading autorack chock systems and gravity gates from Holden America, along with the advanced software and logistics solutions provided by RSI Logistics to enhance visibility and efficiency in railcar shipments.

The elements of the TrinityRail platform, consisting of railcar leasing, manufacturing, after-market parts, maintenance and logistics services, each work in sync to provide a comprehensive suite of solutions and flexible options to a highly diverse group of customers.

Its maintenance network provides nationwide support and encompasses mobile repair, cleaning, and finishing solutions for both owned and leased assets. Proprietary replacement parts are manufactured in Fort Worth, Texas, and service capabilities are further broadened by Holden America’s products. A customer may have a need for either or both of these services, with TrinityRail being able to provide the support needed from one single source.

TrinityRail’s reputation for innovation in railcar manufacturing is exemplified by products like the Hourglass® autorack. For decades, TrinityRailhas been recognized as a leading provider of autoracks for the transportation of finished vehicles, continually evolving to meet shifting automotive demands and prioritizing operator safety and security. In response to automotive client feedback, the Hourglass was engineered to enhance interior ergonomics and minimize vehicle damage in transit.

A robust inventory of replacement parts—including the Seal Safe Radial Door® and Holden America’s securement products—further supports the company’s commitment to quality and service within the automotive industry.

TrinityRail also recently extended its innovative approach to the aggregates industry with the advent of its 2,403 cubic foot triple hopper car. Developed to meet unique market requirements, the car’s use of three gates allows for flexible options for aggregate producers and shippers with varying unloading capacity and needs. The addition of the 2,403 further expands the family of TrinityRail-built cars that serve the aggregates market, while providing customers with additional options to meet their unique rail shipping requirements.

TrinityRail is committed to sustainability and striving to make rail shipping the preferred choice for businesses looking to safely and efficiently transport their products.

Though freight rail represents 40% of the long-distance shipping industry, rail shipping is only responsible for 1.9% of greenhouse gas emissions. It’s estimated that when a shipper moves its freight from trucking to rail, it reduce its emissions by 75%.

As a leading voice in freight rail’s growing commitment to enhanced sustainability and environmental responsibility, TrinityRaiI is supporting the development of new, more sustainable railcar products and the creation of new services and solutions that elevate efficiency and amplify the benefits of shipping by rail. They have also overhauled processes and procedures that work in unison to both track and reduce their own environmental impact.

The company’s environmental initiatives are underscored by numerous accolades:

• ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System Certification.
• American Chemistry Council 2022 Responsible Care® Award for the Hourglass autorack and chemical product safety improvements.
• Responsible Care® Award for waste minimization, reuse, and VOC reduction.
• Clean Industry Certification for Mexico facilities from PROFEPA.
• Operation Clean Sweep partnership for zero plastic resin loss.

Additionally, another breakthrough, the TrinityRail SRC® (Sustainable Railcar Conversion) program, reengineers, repurposes and reuses railcar materials and components in the manufacturing of new cars, reducing waste and energy consumption in the process. Through this environmentally conscious process, TrinityRail decreases energy consumption, preserves resources, and can be more responsive to increased product demands.  

Since its inception, the SRC program has saved over 79 million pounds of raw materials. While railcars already have a longer lifespan than over-the-road freight vehicles, their utility can be extended further through TrinityRail SRC.

TrinityRail offers an extensive suite of services to support every phase of the customer’s journey, including a dedicated customer delivery team for all inquiries related to the order, and field support representatives to assist with instruction related to safety, unloading, inspection, and technical troubleshooting.

TrinityRail takes pride in the value of its relationship with its customers and finding solutions that address diverse needs. Regardless of size or the industry, the organization is committed to helping customers achieve their objectives while advancing modernization within the rail sector.

The acquisition of RSI Logistics in 2023 allowed TrinityRail to enhance its offerings with a suite of digital products and services that support all aspects of a rail-centric supply chain, including transloading and bulk terminal solutions.

As an established leader in rail logistics with more than four decades of industry expertise, RSI Logistics delivers robust software and terminal management services across North America.

The integration of RSI Logistics into TrinityRail aims to provide shippers with a unified, comprehensive approach to rail logistics. More specifically, its core services include:

• Procurement & Planning.
• Order Management.
• Fleet and Yard Management.
• Shipment Execution.
• Shipment & Railcar Tracking.
• Freight Audit.
• Fleet Maintenance.

In particular, Rail Command®, RSI Logistics’ proprietary railcar management platform, streamlines shipment tracking, fleet oversight, freight processing, and reporting. Its dashboards, reports, and applications are designed to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs for shippers.

Additionally, Rail Impact® is a rail rate and traffic analysis software tool that supports shippers with rate benchmarking, savings analysis, and actionable negotiation insights through advanced rail-rate and traffic analytics.

With a broad platform of service offerings, including railcar leasing, parts, maintenance, manufacturing, advanced digital platform solutions, and a culture of continuous innovation, TrinityRail connects supply chains, supports communities, and moves essential goods efficiently and reliably. Its guiding purpose—Delivering Goods for the Good of All—remains at the heart of every innovation and partnership.

For more information about how TrinityRail can meet your railcar or service needs, visit trinityrail.com.

The post TrinityRail®: Delivering Goods for the Good of All™ appeared first on Railway Age.

The move advances “Maya Train’s freight network, which is expected to be operational next year,” the Mexico News Daily reported Sept. 5.

The Mexican government this year is investing US$7.15 billion in several passenger projects, as well as in 70 km (43 miles) of freight infrastructure on the Mayan Train network on the Yucatan Peninsula, according to a report by Kevin Smith and William C. Vantuono, chief editors of International Railway Journal and Railway Age, respectively.

Semarnat “granted the environmental impact authorization for the construction of the [7.7 billion pesos/US$413 million] cargo terminal [in Cancun] that will be used for Maya Train maintenance and refueling,” according to the Riviera Maya News. “The permit was granted subject to the applicant subsequently processing additional authorization for the supply of fuel for self-consumption by the railway system.”

According to the Environmental Impact Statement, “As a result of the fuel supply zone for locomotives, the developer must take the necessary steps to obtain the corresponding environmental impact authorization for hydrocarbon sector activities from ASEA (Safety, Energy and Environment Agency), a decentralized administrative body of Semarnat,” the Riviera Maya News reported. The media outlet noted that authorization is needed before the terminal can operate.

There are slated to be two approximately 63,400 gallon (240,000 liter) diesel storage tanks and an approximately 5,300 gallon (20,000 liter) diesel exhaust fluid storage tank at terminal, which will be located on land owned by the Quintana Roo government, according to the Riviera Maya News. The land is south of Cancun International Airport and east of the Maya Train passenger station, reported the Mexico News Daily, which noted that the terminal will comprise 28 facilities, “including warehouses, a hazardous waste storage site, housing for National Guard officers and train crews, a customs inspection area and other cargo service infrastructure.” The terminal will link to Maya Train’s Section Five, the Daily said, “which runs south to Playa del Carmen and Quintana Roo, as well as to Section Four, which connects with the Mérida and Campeche stations.” It will also be “the first of two [terminals] built in the state,” the Riviera Maya News reported. The federal government is funding the terminal, which is “expected to be completed in 2026, at which time a second similar terminal will be built in Chetumal sometime in 2027,” according to the Riviera Maya News.

• Wi-Tronix Teams With Tren Maya
• Mexico Moving on Passenger Rail Revival
• Mexico’s Outgoing President Announces Completion of Mayan Train Project
• Alstom Delivers First Tren Maya Long-Distance Trainset
• Mexico’s Next President Continues Passenger Train Revival
• Jordan, MacGregor Share Their Perspective on Developing Technology in the Rail Space

The post Reports: Mayan Train Freight Terminal Coming to Cancun appeared first on Railway Age.

Here’s how four recent patents are helping us lead the way. 

At our Alliance Intermodal facility in Fort Worth, Texas, drones are transforming how we manage inventory. Our patented drone-based Automated Yard Check (AYC) system uses aerial footage and machine learning to triangulate the exact location of containers in 3D space. 

“Before this, it took an entire shift to complete a yard inventory,” said Michael Ibanez, co-inventor and manager of technology services. “Now, we maintain a real-time inventory using drones and truck-mounted cameras. That means faster turnarounds for drivers and better service for our customers.” 

The system is already in use at Alliance and in Los Angeles, with plans to expand to most of our 27 intermodal facilities by 2027.  

Planning intermodal service is a team relay race. Our patent-pending  Transportation Service Design system known as Load Plan Optimization (LPO) uses AI to optimize how we assign shipments to trains and routes.

By using an AI-based algorithm that creates a load plan for an outbound train in seconds, we ensure the right containers and trailers are located where they need to be on the production tracks, minimizing the overall distance our hostler drivers need to travel.

“These two patent applications, LPO and AYC, supplement each other,” said Hernandez. “These technologies improve the customer experience and increases efficiency.”

Every five-minute job is a frozen or broken bolt away from becoming hours not minutes. Locomotive maintenance is a specialized discipline that requires extensive training, practical experience, and patience to develop proficiency. The process of changing injectors used to involve awkward angles and a fair amount of physical strain. But a new patented tool, developed by machinists Chad Sellman, Jason Carlson and James Rumpca, at BNSF’s Northtown Diesel Shop in Minneapolis is changing that.

The Engine Component Removal Tool allows mechanics to remove both the injector and its retaining bolt in a single, fluid motion. It eliminates the need for excessive force, reduces the risk of injury and speeds up the job.

“This tool mitigates the chance of line of fire, release of energy and overexertion,” said Sellman, one of the co-inventors. “Now, the tool does the heavy lifting. It’s safer, more efficient, and just makes sense.”

Jason Carlson, who helped spark the idea during a routine injector change, reflected on the journey.

“I’m excited and proud that we recently received a patent for a tool we designed together. We discovered this idea by accident while changing injectors. Through collaboration and multiple iterations, we developed the final version that earned this patent. I never thought I would be receiving a patent, and I’m thrilled to have reached this milestone.”

This achievement reflects our teamwork, creativity, and commitment to making our work more efficient and safer. I’m grateful to be part of a team that turns ideas into reality and can’t wait to see what we create next.”

The tool is now in use in Northtown and is being evaluated for broader deployment to all BNSF’s shops. It’s an example of how innovation at BNSF often starts with solving a problem and a team determined to make things better.

Switching operations are complex, but our patented Multi-Objective Train Block Assignment System makes them smarter. This technology uses data and optimization models to assign train blocks (groups of cars) to classification tracks in the most efficient way possible.

Whether the yard is full or flowing, the system adapts, minimizing unassigned volume, reducing switch moves, and improving throughput. It even generates visual tools like charts and diagrams to support real-time decision-making.

“What’s exciting is how this started as a manual process on a whiteboard and evolved into a fully data-driven decision assist tool,” said General Director of Transportation Cory Misiewicz. “Now, we’re helping yards optimize hump yard bowl capacity, reduce dwell (time trains are spent in yards), and deliver a product our customers can rely on.”

At BNSF, we’re not just solving today’s challenges, we’re building tomorrow’s railroad. These patented technologies reflect our commitment to innovation, service, and safety. 

Further Reading:

• ‘Force Multipliers’

The post BNSF Leads Rail Industry in Innovation With More Patents Than All Other Class I Railroads Combined appeared first on Railway Age.

A former Nickel Plate Road GP9 is headed to an Ohio tourist railroad where it will be restored to operation. Last week, the Cincinnati Scenic Railway announced a deal with the Roanoke Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society to acquire NKP GP9 532. 

GP9 532 entered service on the NKP in 1959 and eventually joined the Norfolk & Western, which later became part of Norfolk Southern. It was donated to the Virginia Museum of Transportation in 1984 and was later acquired by the NRHS chapter in 2015. Cincinnati Scenic is currently raising funds at nkpohio.org to restore the locomotive to operation. 

“Cincinnati Scenic Railway is excited for the opportunity to return another piece of historic rolling stock to our collection. Thanks to our friends at the Roanoke Chapter, future generations will be able to ride behind 532 and witness it in operation,” said railroad president Ray Kammer Jr.

Meanwhile, another piece from the NRHS Roanoke Chapter collection found a new home last week. N&W Tool Car 1407 has been donated to VMT to be permanently reunited with 4-8-4 611. The car was originally built in 1927 as a mail storage car. In the 1980s, the car was converted into a tool car for N&W 611. It remained in that service until the end of the Norfolk Southern steam program in 1994. The car was then acquired by the NRHS chapter. When 611 returned to the main line in the 2010s, the tool car was again matched with the locomotive. 

“The Roanoke Chapter is pleased to form this partnership with the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Together we can highlight the historic role of the 611 and 1407, from the 1950s through today, ensuring both artifacts continue to be together as they were intended,” said Roanoke Chapter President Tim Witt. 

The Roanoke Chapter maintains a large collection of historic equipment, including a Norfolk & Western Alco T-6, a “Redbird” GP9, and over two dozen other pieces. Earlier this year, the group announced it would be constructing a new restoration facility.

—Railfan & Railroad Staff

The post Nickel Plate GP9 Sold to Ohio Tourist Road appeared first on Railfan & Railroad Magazine.

In terms of monitoring Class I network health, the first two numbers we look at every week are the daily number of trains failing to depart on time due to a shortage of crews (trains holding for crews) or locomotives (trains holding for power).

They’re great metrics because, rather than look at the supply of crews and locomotives and try to guess whether they’re sufficient for current demand, these metrics quantify the initial consequences of a demand/ supply imbalance (not having enough). As such, they’re basically risk meters that move in real time, and they’ve been moving a lot lower recently.

Three weeks ago, we talked about a “beautiful absence of emergencies,” and this recent period of relative normalcy has allowed the railroads to drive down departure delays due to shortages of crews and power. In the chart below, we’ve consolidated these two metrics across the four U.S. Class I railroads. In the week ending Aug. 29, trains holding for crews came in at 12.1 and trains holding for power at 7.8, totaling 19.9. When was the last time we saw a reading below 20?

In the eight years since this data has been reported, there have only been five other weeks below 20, which was between March 28 and May 1, 2020 (circled in chart). What was happening at that time? The COVID lockdowns, temporarily cratering demand relative to the supply of crews and power (crew shortages came back to bite them five months later via a historically low furlough recall rate).

Here are the same totals for crews and power, but broken out by individual railroads since the beginning of 2023, as they bounced back from the 2022 Service Crisis. We’ve seen improvements across the board, with BNSF the biggest contributor in recent times, with significant drops starting in April of this year.

It’s all good news, because with these departure delays sitting around historic lows, it means operational risk is low, the national rail network’s ability to take a punch from a major hurricane or other natural disaster is high, and crew and locomotive resources are adequate relative to current train starts, containing labor expense and locomotive capex. If the railroads keep improving, we’ll be forced to retire this report because we’ll have nothing to write about. Would they miss us?

The post Trains Holding for Crews and Power Falling appeared first on Railway Age.

We hosted a call with rail industry participants on an update on rail service, end markets, and thoughts on a transcon merger. Tariffs are having a meaningful effect on import/export demand, and customers are taking as long as possible to order goods. Class I service remains fairly healthy. A transcon merger came with mixed views, formal filing with the STB will be key for stakeholders to establish opinions.

A short line panelist sees a transcon network eliminating network frictions and emphasized the watershed opportunity. In addition to share gains from truck, some gains could also be made from short lines situated along watershed lanes. Recall that Union Pacific has disclosed $1.75 billion in revenue synergies in a single-line framework. As we have previously noted, prior mergers have seen incremental revenue estimates raised materially and believe upside is likely in this case.

Achieving beneficial transcon service is not impossible with an interline agreement such as proposed by CSX/BNSF, but our short line panelist noted this would be easier (and have cost advantages) in a fully integrated network. The STB’s revised 2002 merger rules acknowledge that interline agreements can deliver gains without requiring integration, but we note that the Board has also consistently established precedent, citing gains that only integration can achieve in prior merger decisions. We believe a lot will hinge on the final STB filing and course of proceedings/comments.

Two panelists (short line operator and rail logistics provider) were optimistic that a potential UP+Norfolk Southern integration would proceed smoothly, but the shipper was very cautious. This has been a key question, given the rail industry has a past of serious post-merger service snags usually arising out of problematic tech integration. Rail panelists acknowledged problems in the UP+Southern Pacific combination as well as the Conrail split between CSX and NS, but emphasized that technology has come a long way since those transactions in the 1990s. We concur with this view and believe that although service issues can creep up, disruptions will be contained relative to prior experience. This has been observed with the relatively quick recovery in the CPKC network following a snag in its tech integration. In contrast, both the historical deals mentioned had unique hurdles.

The chemical shipper on our panel took a less optimistic view of a rail merger. This shipper’s focus will be on the concessions that UP and NS will offer in their filing to the STB. Per this shipper, the details around switching and open access will be critical and assurance of concessions is far from enough—the devil will be in the details and reactions from the customer base are likely to be varied. In the previous edition of our proprietary rail shipper survey, we found that ~two-thirds of shippers supported a merger, provided remedies were offered.

Commodities have been a mixed bag this year, with the weakness coming from pulp/paper and chemicals/plastics. Our short line rail panelist cited three mill closures this year (one of them recently), all located on their railroad, driven by oversupply and global trade tensions. Our chemicals panelist stated YTD chemicals demand has been materially lower than its 2025 forecast (down double-digits, mostly international), with the hopes that 2026 will be flat at best. The weakness has been across resin types. Our panelist attributed the weakness to trade impacts and softer goods demand for items such as appliances (such as fridges, stoves). Another panelist stated he is seeing a big impact on his business from import/export declines (sand, chemicals), weaker cross-border traffic, and less leasing/buying of equipment. Shippers are taking as long as possible to order goods given uncertainty, resulting in a time crunch that is leading to trucks winning share from ports.

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Now in service at Class II Sierra Northern Railway (SNR) is the first of four HFC (hydrogen fuel cell)-powered, ZE (zero-emission) four-axle switcher locomotives.  

Developed with SNR subsidiary Railpower Technologies and “designed, built, and tested in West Sacramento (Calif.)” the locomotive is described as “the first [of its type] in the United States built specifically for freight rail.” The project was made possible through a P3 (public-private partnership). The California Energy Commission awarded $4 million to design and demonstrate the prototype. In 2023, the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) and the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District provided $19.5 million to for three additional locomotives. In addition to Railpower, technology partners include GTI Energy, OptiFuel Systems LLC, Ballard Power Systems and the University of California, Riverside.

The locomotive, No. 193, completed testing on March 27, 2025, and is now in regular service. SNR plans to have four of these units in service by 2027, “with a long-term goal of converting its entire fleet and eventually commercializing the technology.”

This prototype locomotive, equipped with with onboard storage and advanced battery integration, reduces the railroad’s annual diesel fuel consumption “by about 10,000 gallons,” SNR noted. “Statewide, California’s 260 switcher locomotives each consume an average of 50,000 gallons per year, according to industry estimates. Converting them to hydrogen power could cut more than 12 million gallons of diesel annually—the equivalent of removing nearly 20,000 cars from the road.

SNR said it plans to leverage FastOx® gasification technology, developed by sister company Sierra Energy, to produce clean hydrogen fuel for its locomotives. This technology convert waste into hydrogen, “creating a sustainable fuel source while reducing dependence on landfills,” SNR added. Sierra Energy currently operates a 20-metric-ton-per-day gasification facility at Fort Hunter Liggett in California, where post-recycled waste “Is transformed into clean electricity—a model that can be adapted to generate hydrogen for freight rail. Hydrogen power, already used in buses, trucks, and passenger rail, has now been adapted for freight through rigorous safety testing and redundant onboard systems that meet all state and federal standards. The project supports California jobs in engineering, construction, and operations while contributing to a growing clean energy supply chain that can scale nationally.”

“This is a milestone not only for Sierra Northern but for the future of freight in California and beyond,” said Kennan H. Beard III, President and CEO of Sierra Northern Railway. “Hydrogen locomotives offer a proven, scalable way to deliver cleaner air while keeping goods moving efficiently.”

“This was a team effort,” said Michael Faust, President and CEO of Railpower. “The strong alliances have shown that hydrogen freight solutions are scalable, cost-effective and ready for real-world use.”

“This launch marks a pivotal moment in the rail industry’s transition away from diesel,” said Mike Hart, CEO of Sierra Railroad Company. “This demonstrates California’s innovation in delivering cleaner air for local communities while creating scalable solutions for the nation’s freight network.”

SNR, headquartered in West Sacramento, operates freight and passenger rail across California with divisions in Oakdale, Ventura and Fort Bragg. Founded in 1897, the company provides freight transportation, transloading, infrastructure development, and scenic passenger services. Sierra Railroad Company includes SNR, Mendocino Railway, Sierra Energy and passenger services such as the Skunk Train and River Fox Train. The company has operated in California since the 19th century. Railpower Technologies (which SNR acquired from RJ Corman Railroad Group in February 2025) designs and manufactures low-emission locomotives across North America. Its platforms include hybrid battery and HFC locomotives engineered for freight duty cycles. Sierra Energy Corporation uses FastOx® gasification to convert waste into clean energy. Its commercial facility at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., processes up to 20 metric tons of waste per day.

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RSI on Sept. 4 announced that is has joined the B&O Railroad Museum as a key partner to support the Bicentennial of American Railroading in 2027. Together, RSI and the museum, “will shine a spotlight on the past, present, and future of American railroading” as the nation celebrates 200 years since the founding of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, America’s first chartered rail line, on Feb. 28, 1827.

As a Bicentennial partner, RSI will display its logo on the anniversary website, www.americanrail200.org, and has committed to amplify the 200th anniversary of American railroading in 2027 with its membership and beyond.

RSI will also work with the museum on the planning of its new Innovation Hall showcasing the present and future of railroading technologies. The Innovation Hall will open in 2027.

“The invention of the railroad is often viewed as the internet of its time given its transformative impact on American life,” said Kris A. Hoellen, Executive Director of the B&O Railroad Museum. “Having RSI as a partner, representing the technologies that ensure the rail system continues to innovate, is a natural fit to be front and center in the celebration.”

“RSI is honored to join this historic celebration,” said RSI President Jim Riley. “The Bicentennial is a chance to celebrate two centuries of progress while showcasing how rail will continue to move America forward.”

The Bicentennial of American Railroading will be a nationwide celebration culminating in 2027, inviting railroads, industry partners, museums, and communities across the country to participate.

New data released on Sept. 4 by APTA highlights the growth and economic impact of the public transportation industry in the U.S., “reinforcing the need for strong and consistent investment in public transportation systems nationwide.

APTA’s new 2025 Public Transportation Fact Book (download below) shows ridership reached 7.66 billion trips in 2024—a significant rebound from pandemic lows. This represents the fifth consecutive year of ridership growth. Public transportation is a $93.4 billion industry that directly employs more than 430,000 people and supports several million private-sector jobs, making it a key driver of economic activity in communities of all sizes, according to the association.

“These numbers tell a story of resilience and growth, and why investment in public transit and passenger rail is essential,” said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “Public transportation remains the backbone of economic mobility in communities across America, with 87 percent of trips directly impacting the economy by connecting people to work, retail, healthcare, and entertainment opportunities.”

Key highlights from the 2025 Public Transportation Fact Book include:

• “Economic Impact: Public transportation is a $93.4 billion industry, making it a significant economic driver, with 77% of federal transit funds supporting private businesses through contracts, services, and supply chains.
• “Ridership Recovery: Ridership has shown steady growth, climbing from 4.81 billion trips in 2021 to 7.66 billion trips in 2024—a 59% increase—demonstrating the essential nature of public transportation services.
• “Employment Growth: The industry employs 437,313 people as of 2023, providing good-paying jobs and career opportunities across the nation. Public transportation employment has remained strong, supporting families and communities nationwide.
• “System Expansion: The nation’s public transportation network continues to grow, with 26 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, 48 surface rail systems (light rail and streetcar), 37 regional railroad systems (commuter rail and hybrid rail), and 16 heavy rail systems providing diverse transportation options.”

“What these statistics really show is that public transportation is more than just moving people from point A to point B,” Skoutelas said. “We’re talking about connecting working Americans to economic opportunities, supporting students in their educational pursuits, and ensuring that communities remain accessible and vibrant.”

“Public transportation serves as a lifeline for communities large and small across America, especially for seniors and people with disabilities,” Skoutelas noted. “Rural residents with disabilities rely heavily on public transit, taking approximately 50 percent more public transit trips than those without disabilities.”

The data also reveals public transportation’s expanding role in supporting air travel and tourism, with 31 airports in 22 urbanized areas now connected to rail or BRT systems, facilitating seamless multimodal transportation for travelers and workers.

“As we look toward the future, these numbers reinforce that investment in public transportation is investment in America’s economic competitiveness,” Skoutelas said. “Every trip on public transportation supports local businesses, reduces traffic congestion, and provides transportation options that benefit entire communities.”

APTA also released its 2025 Q2 Ridership Report (download below) showing that public transportation ridership was 7.3% higher in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the year before. Riders took more than two billion trips on public transportation in the quarter for the first time since 2020. Together, riders took 140 million more trips in the second quarter of 2025 than in the same quarter in 2024. Ridership has increased for five consecutive years.

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Class III rail service provider SCFE and U.S. Sugar, a south Florida-based sugarcane and vegetable farming and processing business, recently announced the promotion of Bob Lawson to Vice President of SCFE and General Manager of U.S. Sugar Railroad Operations.

“U.S. Sugar’s railroad operations have been a cornerstone of the company’s history and overall success, and Lawson’s affinity for agriculture and trains made him a perfect fit,” the companies said.

“The efficient and reliable transportation of sugarcane to our mill is crucial to our operations, and Bob has played an integral role in that process for many years,” said U.S. Sugar President & CEO Ken McDuffie. “Under Bob’s leadership, I am confident our railroad operations will continue to thrive and contribute to the overall success of our company.”

Lawson has held many leadership roles, including Team Leader and Juice Operations Facility Leader at Southern Gardens Citrus Processing, Area 3 Manager in the Agriculture Department, and General Manager of Harvest Operations. Since 2011, he has served as General Manager of Harvest and Railroad Operations, and in June 2022, he was named the General Manager of Railroad Operations.

Lawson, who was first drawn to agriculture growing up in Chiefland, Fla., where he worked on his uncle’s vegetable farm, earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Food, and Resource Economics and a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics, both from the University of Florida. In 1996, he began his career with U.S. Sugar as a Harvest Foreman at Boy and South Shore Farms.

ENSCO on Sept. 4 announced that it has appointed Brian Sieger as Facilities Manager at the TTC, “a pivotal role that supports the continuous operation of the world’s largest rail testing facility.”

With more than 40 years of cross-industry facilities and project management experience, Sieger brings a “solutions-driven mindset to the oversight of this critical national asset,” ENSCO said.

In this role, Sieger is responsible for overseeing the upkeep, safety, and functionality of TTC’s expansive campus infrastructure, including buildings and support systems. The position, ENSCO says, “is critical to ensuring uninterrupted support for complex testing and training programs for both government and commercial customers.”

“The TTC is imperative to the future of the rail industry: from supporting high-speed vehicle testing to cybersecurity training. Brian’s experience, energy, and curiosity make him a perfect fit for this role. His leadership helps ensure the site remains safe, reliable, and ready for the future,” said Jackie Van Der Westhuizen, Vice President of Surface Transportation Group, ENSCO, Inc.

Sieger’s career has spanned a wide range of technical and management roles. Beginning his career as an HVAC technician, Sieger has since advanced into senior leadership roles overseeing complex facilities portfolios. While new to the rail industry, he brings a deep understanding of infrastructure systems and a passion for continuous learning, ENSCO noted.

“This site is full of engineering marvels, and I’m excited to be part of the team that keeps it all running. Much of the equipment here challenges my curiosity, and that’s exactly what I was looking for. The TTC team has been incredibly supportive, and I’m here to help us grow with new customers and cutting-edge testing,” said Sieger.

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