Railway Age magazine

SEPTA Pictured is the interior of the Bombardier-Built EXO cars that will soon be making their way into SEPTA Regional Rail service. (Courtesy of SEPTA)

SEPTA on April 1 reported that the Exo Board in Quebec has formally approved its $8.58 million bid for 24 coach cars, which will be used to bolster the Regional Rail fleet. The cars, which were built by Bombardier Transportation in the 1980s, will operate with SEPTA’s existing ACS-64 electric locomotives. SEPTA said it is currently working out logistics for transporting the cars from Montreal. SEPTA will perform modifications to the cars’ doors and other systems once they arrive in Pennsylvania, as part of an upgrade program to meet its standards. A timeline for placing the cars into service will be developed later this spring.

Funding for the purchase of these railcars comes from the nearly $220 million in additional capital dollars allocated by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro in November 2025 to support safety upgrades and infrastructure improvements.

SEPTA Map (Courtesy of SEPTA)

“SEPTA has been in contact with transit agencies across North America in recent months about potential railcar purchases, following FRA-mandated inspections and repairs of its 50-year-old Silverliner IV fleet last fall,” the agency said. “The Silverliner IVs make up approximately two-thirds of the Regional Rail fleet, and large portions had to be removed from service while this work was performed. This caused trip cancellations and reduced capacity for several months.

“While required repairs have been completed on most Silverliner IVs, SEPTA has committed to an enhanced maintenance program moving forward to ensure the fleet remains safe and reliable while replacement rail cars are procured. In an effort to avoid further service disruptions, SEPTA has explored shorter-term alternatives such as leasing and purchasing used railcars from other agencies.”

(Courtesy of SEPTA)

Earlier this year, 10 railcars leased from MARC in Maryland were placed into service.

“We are grateful for Gov. Shapiro’s continued support of SEPTA, and we are committed to continuing to deliver improvements for our customers,” SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer said. “These additional railcars will help us enhance reliability and expand capacity for our customers while we work toward replacing our aging Regional Rail fleet.”

Further Reading:

• Report: SEPTA Working to Boost Regional Rail Capacity
• NTSB Recommends Sidelining SEPTA Silverliner IVs
• Exo Selects Transdev Canada for Rail Rolling Equipment Operation, Maintenance
• Montreal’s New CRRC Bilevels Entering Service

Amtrak (Courtesy of NCTCOG)

The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) Transportation Department late last month released a video highlighting Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer.

“The train nearly stopped last year,” NCTCOG said in the announcement. “When money for the popular passenger rail service did not make it into the final state budget in 2025, Dallas-Fort Worth transportation officials stepped in to keep it on the tracks. Last summer, the Regional Transportation Council (RTC) approved a $3.5 million emergency infusion to ensure Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer could keep moving between Fort Worth and Oklahoma City. The funding represents half the state’s biennial contribution to the operation of the Amtrak route.

“The Heartland Flyer is funded jointly by the states of Texas and Oklahoma, the only two states in which the service operates. The Texas Transportation Commission gave final approval for the RTC funding in August 2025. The emergency infusion lasts for a year, meaning more action will be required to keep the train going until the Texas Legislature reconvenes, in January 2027, and has a chance to revisit the matter.

“Significant growth in ridership could help bridge the gap, as the additional revenue realized would reduce the subsidy and could entice more funding partners to come forward. In Fiscal Year 2025, Heartland Flyer ridership grew 1% to almost 81,000 passengers.”

(Courtesy of Amtrak)

The new video covers a trip made by NCTCOG staff members, who traveled the route “to experience first-hand the ease of traveling by train,” NCTCOG said. They also visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, Scissortail Park, Myriad Botanical Gardens and The Jones Assembly restaurant and music venue.

Further Reading:

• Heartland Flyer Gets a Lifeline
• Heartland Flyer End of the Line?

The post Transit Briefs: SEPTA, Amtrak appeared first on Railway Age.

NJDOT (William C. Vantuono Photograph)

NJDOT officials on March 30 announced that Priya Jain was sworn-in as Commissioner, making her the 21st Chief Executive of the Department. The full New Jersey State Senate unanimously confirmed her nomination on March 23. New Jersey Gov. Sherrill nominated Jain on Janu. 19, 2026, and she has served in an acting capacity since then. She will continue her work overseeing the Department and will also serve as Chair of New Jersey Transit, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, and the South Jersey Transportation Authority. 

Jain brings more than three decades of experience leading major and complex transportation and infrastructure programs. She began her career as a civil and environmental engineer and has worked in engineering, policy, and program management to support public agencies in advancing complex capital projects. Most recently, she served as the President of Americas for Mace Consult. Prior to that, she was Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Atlas. As Senior Vice President for Sales and Strategy at Atkins, she spearheaded the firm’s expansion across North America. Jain has also held senior leadership roles at CH2M.

According to NJDOT, Jain’s connection to New Jersey’s transportation system began early in her career, as an engineer on the original ARC Tunnel project. “That experience shaped her understanding of the complexities of large, multiagency projects and continues to inform her focus on efficient permitting, interagency coordination, and timely project delivery,” the Department noted.

Jain is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the Northeast Association of State Transportation Officials (NASTO), and The Eastern Transportation Coalition (TETC). Additionally, she is an Advisory Board Member for Civil Engineering at the City College of New York. She holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and master’s degree in physics from Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani, as well as a master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of New York at Buffalo.

Further Reading:

• For NJT, A ‘Rapid Action Plan’

Alstom Toronto Transit Commision in January ordered a new subway train fleet from Alstom. (Alstom Rendering)

Alstom on April 1 reported the appointment of Martin Sion as CEO. He succeeds Henri Poupart-Lafarge, who, after a decade at the throttle, has decided not to seek a further term as CEO.

“Under Henri Poupart-Lafarge’s leadership since 2016, Alstom achieved a strong leadership position in the global rail industry, marked by significant growth, a broadened product portfolio, and a reputation for strong partnerships worldwide,” the company reported. “Henri’s tenure saw the company’s revenues rise from around €6 billion to €18.5 billion with a profitability among the highest in the industry. The successful integration of Bombardier Transportation [in 2021] https://www.railwayage.com/cs/alstom-completes-bombardier-transportation-takeover/ gave Alstom the power, the scale, and the competitiveness required to be one of the world leaders in rail transportation. The Board of Directors expresses its deep gratitude for Henri’s many achievements and unwavering dedication, which have positioned Alstom well to seize the opportunities of a rapidly evolving transportation market worldwide.”

Philippe Petitcolin, Chairman of Alstom’s Board of Directors, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Martin Sion as our new CEO. Martin brings a wealth of experience in industrial leadership, most recently as CEO of ArianeGroup. We are confident that Martin will further reinforce Alstom’s execution capabilities and lead the company forward to realize the ambitions set. I would like to thank Henri Poupart-Lafarge for his long term vision and commitment to making Alstom the leader it is today.” 

Martin Sion said: “I am extremely honored to join Alstom and look forward to working with the talented teams to advance the decarbonisation of transport and deliver innovative mobility solutions worldwide. I thank Henri for his leadership and for laying solid foundations, including building a capable leadership team that will enable Alstom’s continued success.”

Further Reading:

• Toronto Commuter Operating Contract Extension Signed
• Amtrak Releases Video on Fleet Maintenance Facility Program
• Toronto Orders New Subway Train Fleet
• Mexico Awards $1B Passenger Fleet Contract
• Finch West LRT Opens
• Alstom Appoints North American VP, RSC
• Alstom, CTDOT Unveil Commuter Railcar Mockup

Miner Miner’s dual cylinder air-powered AggreGate. (Miner Photograph)

Miner, a railcar component manufacturer based in Geneva, Ill., has announced that Mike Downey has joined its sales team as a General Sales Manager and that Michael List has been appointed to its field services team as a representative.

“Downey brings more than 30 years of commercial, operational, and strategic experience in the North American rail industry,” said Paul Aspengren, Director of Sales for Miner, which has more than 130 years of experience in railcar equipment design and manufacturing, and supplies draft gears, brake beams, outlet gates, constant contact side bearings, and other high-performance components. “His deep understanding of rail operations, market dynamics and customer needs will be a tremendous asset as Miner continues to grow and deliver industry‑leading railcar components and systems. We’re excited to welcome Mike to the Miner team and look forward to the expertise and energy he brings.”

Downey, a bilingual business development professional, has held senior sales and marketing roles with major railcar lessors, as well as Class I, short line and passenger railways. He holds an MBA from the University of Ottawa, along with degrees from McGill University.

Downey said: “My values align closely with Miner’s commitment to engineering excellence and customer‑focused innovation. I’m excited to bring that commitment to our customers and help them achieve and exceed their goals and expectations.”

List began his career in 2001 as a welder with FreightCar America in Danville, Ill. He advanced to Quality Manager, and established quality programs across multiple facilities, while leading engineering inspections. In 2017, he changed gears and became a Service Engineer, primarily supporting customers in the field. His expertise spans hot-bearing inspections, truck teardowns, product promotion, and technical support.

“List brings to Miner deep technical expertise and a passion for solving complex challenges, with more than two decades of rail industry experience,” Paul Aspengren said. “His dedication and troubleshooting skills have earned him an impressive reputation for excellence in quality inspection, automated testing, and leadership roles.”

Further Reading:

• On the Rocks
• Force Control
• High Expectations, Hot Market
• Miner Celebrates 40 Years of AggreGate® Ballast Discharge Systems
• For Miner, a ‘Milestone’

The post People News: NJDOT, Alstom, Miner appeared first on Railway Age.

BNSF

Members of the TCU intermodal group on April 1 announced the ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement with BNSF Railway. The five-year agreement covers BNSF members at Cicero, Corwith, Seattle, and Memphis Intermodal facilities.

“The ratification of this agreement is a clear reflection of the strength of our partnership with TCU’s intermodal team members,” said BNSF President and Chief Executive Officer Katie Farmer. “Their confidence in this path forward energizes our efforts to keep raising the bar on our shared purpose of safety and service.”

The agreement covers 746 employees and gives covered members wage increases totaling 17.5% over five years (18.8% compounded) with retroactive pay beginning July 1, 2025, as well as accelerated enhancements in vacation and preserved health care benefits.

“The overwhelming support for this agreement is a testament to the hard work and preparation of our bargaining committee,” said Charles Soukep, TCU national representative.

The agreement follows the same terms as the current national pattern. More than 95% of BNSF’s workforce is currently covered by ratified agreements, according to the Class I.

NS

NS recently congratulated Mercedes-Benz on its $4 billion investment in its Alabama operations.

(Image Courtesy of Made in Alabama)

“We’re proud to serve the Mercedes‑Benz U.S. International plant in Vance today and to support American manufacturing through a safe, reliable, and sustainable rail network. Investments like this strengthen U.S. supply chains, create jobs, and reinforce the Southeast’s role as a global automotive and export hub,” the Class I wrote in a social media post. “We look forward to continuing our partnership as Mercedes‑Benz grows its footprint in Alabama!”

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

Marmon Rail announced the launch of a unified Railserve brand, bringing together Railserve, Ameritrack, and Powerhouse under a single brand, Railserve, with a refreshed visual identity. The move, the company says, “simplifies how Marmon Rail’s railyard services come together making it easier for customers to understand the services available and to connect with the right team.”

“Customers work with us in different ways,” said Railserve President Laurie Stiles. “Bringing our capabilities together under Railserve makes it easier for customers to see the full range of services we provide. It creates one clear identity in the market and one simple way for customers to engage with us.”

Under the Railserve brand, customers have access to industrial switching, material handling, transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive repair—delivered across a broad geographic footprint. This singular brand, the company says, “reflects how customers already work with the organization today and supports clearer accountability and better coordination when work spans multiple service areas.”

“A unified Railserve organization strengthens our position in the market and supports our long-term strategy,” said Chris Hagge, Group President, Marmon Railyard and Repair Services. “It creates a strong platform for growth and continued investment, while making it easier to bring our capabilities together to support customers more effectively.”

As Railserve, the organization combines the strength of three experienced teams under one new identity, “making it easier to coordinate work, deliver connected solutions, and support customers more completely,” the company noted. “This builds on how the business already operates today and positions Railserve for continued growth.”

The post Marmon Rail Announces Unified Railserve Brand appeared first on Railway Age.

Hitachi Rail on April 2 reported entering into a definitive agreement to acquire Woodbury, N.Y.-based Clever Devices, whose products are said to improve fleet management, the passenger experience, and operational efficiency for public transportation, including passenger rail, fixed-route, bus rapid transit, and paratransit. It has 12 locations in the United States, Canada, Brazil and Italy.

“The proposed acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and expected 2026 revenues of over $220 million, marks a significant step in Hitachi Rail’s strategy to operate as a leading global digital mobility player,” Hitachi Rail said. “Upon completion, the business will extend its footprint from rail to multimodal mobility and strengthen its presence in North America.”

With more than 600 employees and a customer base that includes eight of the ten largest North American transit agencies, Clever Devices “brings a robust portfolio and a proven track record of innovation and delivery,” Hitachi Rail reported. “Its Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions are a critical enabler to growing public transport, making it more attractive and efficient by improving accuracy of information and boosting service punctuality. Clever Devices’ solutions are deployed across public mobility, including buses as well as railway systems. Alongside its strength in North America, Clever Devices has achieved substantial growth in countries such as Brazil and Chile, as well as in Europe in markets including Italy.”

(Courtesy of Hitachi Rail)

Clever Devices’ offerings include:

• Fleet monitoring products, such as Automatic Vehicle Monitoring, which is said to provide a “single source” of diagnostic information; Clever CAD, which is said to enable dispatchers to “communicate directly with vehicles and manage routes more effectively”; Clever Works for “maximizing integrity and efficiency” of data; and the Electric Vehicle Management Solution.
• Passenger-facing products, including live bus time updates; Automated Voice Announcement; and Clever Vision, which provides real time information to passengers on board.
• Safety and security; business intelligence; and communications products.

(Courtesy of Hitachi Rail)

According to Hitachi Rail, Clever Devices’ portfolio of onboard and centralized data solutions will complement its HMAX Mobility suite. HMAX Mobility is described as a digital asset management platform that “connects data from fleets of trains, wayside signaling assets, and track infrastructure to create an operational twin of railways.” It is said to bring together “advanced sensor technology, deep rail expertise, and the latest in AI and edge computing to maximize rail performance, extend asset life, and optimize costs.”

Hitachi Rail pointed out that combining Clever Devices’ fleet management technology with its Operation Control Centers “will enable real time multimodal solutions for urban public transport systems,” and “this technology will enable connected and sustainable intermodal transport and support the transition to more sustainable and efficient transit systems.”

The transaction, “subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions” and “the receipt of regulatory approvals,” is expected to close later this year, according to Hitachi Rail, which is being advised by J.P. Morgan and Ropes & Gray LLP.

“This investment is an important milestone in our strategy to accelerate the digital transformation of public mobility,” Hitachi Rail Group CEO Giuseppe Marino said. “Clever Devices’ proven expertise in intelligent transportation systems, combined with our global scale and our HMAX Mobility platform, will allow us to offer our customers a suite of data‑driven mobility solutions that optimize transport infrastructure and services. Together, we will expand our capabilities beyond rail and deepen our presence in North America, supporting cities as they transition to more innovative and efficient transport networks.”

Separately, Hitachi Rail last fall opened its $110 million “digital” Hagerstown, Md., plant, and in February announced a C$30 million investment in a new Canadian headquarters. Clever Devices in late 2025 was awarded contract from Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for the Advanced Transportation Management System II (ATMS II) dispatching and vehicle location program. The technology will be implemented on more than 500 railcars among six rail yards and 2,400 buses across 12 depots.

Further Reading:

• SEPTA Upgrades Media–Sharon Hill Line With Hitachi Rail CBTC
• New Hitachi Rail Metro Cars Enter Revenue Service in Maryland
• From Expo 86 to Everyday Essential: SkyTrain Marks 40 Years
• Hitachi Rail Releases 2025 Sustainability Statement
• Hitachi Rail Adopts New NVIDIA IGX Thor Solution for Real-Time AI
• Hitachi Rail Signs MOU With Ontario Tech University to Support Railway Engineering Specialization
• Hitachi Rail Acquires Omnicom
• SelTrac™ G9 Development Under Way
• The Future of Rolling Stock, Sponsored by Clever Devices – RAIL GROUP ON AIR

Join Railway Age on Oct. 21-22, 2026, for the Next-Gen Rail Systems Conference (formerly Next-Gen Train Control), whose program will encompass the entire system, examining how signaling and train control technologies are modified and improved by telematics, artificial intelligence, deep data analysis, cybersecurity measures and more. Presented by leading experts, Next-Gen Rail Systems will feature in-depth technical sessions and comprehensive project updates on evolutionary and revolutionary developments in advanced and emerging technologies.

The post Hitachi Rail Agrees to Acquire Clever Devices appeared first on Railway Age.

In a letter to SSL riders, former President Michael Noland expressed his excitement about the completion of the 8-mile line extension, which will run from Gateway Station in North Hammond, with station stops at 173rd Street in Hammond, Ridge Road in Munster, and at the Munster/Dyer border. Passenger service officially began on the new Monon Corridor at 11:45 am on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The $945 million design-build project also includes expanded parking and a new maintenance and storage facility to support the additional service.

HDR supported the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) on this project from its beginning in 2016, providing program management, environmental services, engineering and grant support. This work contributed to NICTD securing a $355 million Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Capital Investment Grant (CIG) and completing a nationally recognized Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). HDR completed preliminary engineering design ahead of the design-build team selection, after which HDR transitioned to support NICTD with quality assurance, risk management and project controls.

“The opening of the Monon Corridor Project reflects years of coordinated planning and collaboration,” HDR Global Transit Director Matt Tucker said. “We’re proud to have worked alongside NICTD from the beginning to deliver a transformative project that expands access to regional mobility.”

HDR assisted NICTD with navigating several complex design and environmental challenges, including developing a two‑tiered stormwater retention system to protect the Grand Calumet River and an elevated track alignment designed to avoid impacts to federally protected recreation areas. The new stations include high‑level platforms for improved accessibility and more efficient boarding for passengers.

(HDR)

“The Monon Corridor is a major investment for mobility and a huge win for people in northwest Indiana,” Noland said. “It improves access to jobs, healthcare and special events, reduces congestion, and strengthens the communities we serve. We were proud to welcome riders to this new extension.”

Former SSL President Michael Noland.

Noland also announced that he is retiring after 43 years in the railroad industry. March 15 was his last day leading the SSL. “Working on the SSL over the past 12 years has been the highlight of my career, and I’m leaving at a time when I am very excited about the railroad’s future,” he wrote. Former Tri-Rail CEO David Dech has been appointed as SSL’s third President in the railroad’s nearly 50-year history, beginning March 16.

“Dave is the perfect person to lead the railroad into the future and is highly regarded as one of the best leaders in the entire U.S. railroad industry. Dave has the passion, drive, and ability to lead this railroad into the future, and I can’t wait to see what improvements he brings to the system. Dave will lead an incredible team of employees who work tirelessly to bring you the best possible commuter rail service. In my opinion, we have the best employees in the entire railroad industry,” wrote Noland.

Noland was hired by the NICTD Board of Trustees in October 2014. “The Board entrusted me with a mission: deliver the elements of their recently approved 20-Year Strategic Plan. The two key elements of the plan were double tracking the 26-mile section of the main line railroad from Gary to Michigan City and extending the service on the West Lake Corridor with a line extension from north Hammond to the Munster/Dyer border. Though the timeline for the plan was 20 years, it needed, in my opinion, to be done in 20 minutes. The plan was bold, it was exciting, and it made perfect sense. The plan was, as Daniel Burnham once advocated for, ‘a big plan.’ In early 2015, we implemented limited stop service from South Bend on a train we named the ‘Sunrise Express.’ The Sunrise Express reduced travel time from South Bend to and from Chicago to less than 2 hours, saving over 30 minutes of travel time. The future of improved service for the railroad was captured in the Sunrise Express and was the predecessor for the start of the Double Track project in early 2016. Support for both these projects grew, often exponentially, and these projects were approved for $1.6B in funding. This funding came from local, county, state, and federal sources and was achieved with leadership support on a bipartisan basis from our northwest Indiana delegation, both state and federal,” Noland wrote in his March 13 letter to SSL riders.

Noland’s full letter to SSI riders is available here.

The post SSL Announces Opening of Monon Corridor Service; Noland Retires as President (UPDATED, 4/2) appeared first on Railway Age.

NJDOT (William C. Vantuono Photograph)

NJDOT officials on March 30 announced that Priya Jain was sworn-in as Commissioner, making her the 21st Chief Executive of the Department. The full New Jersey State Senate unanimously confirmed her nomination on March 23. New Jersey Gov. Sherrill nominated Jain on Janu. 19, 2026, and she has served in an acting capacity since then. She will continue her work overseeing the Department and will also serve as Chair of New Jersey Transit, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, and the South Jersey Transportation Authority. 

Jain brings more than three decades of experience leading major and complex transportation and infrastructure programs. She began her career as a civil and environmental engineer and has worked in engineering, policy, and program management to support public agencies in advancing complex capital projects. Most recently, she served as the President of Americas for Mace Consult. Prior to that, she was Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Atlas. As Senior Vice President for Sales and Strategy at Atkins, she spearheaded the firm’s expansion across North America. Jain has also held senior leadership roles at CH2M.

According to NJDOT, Jain’s connection to New Jersey’s transportation system began early in her career, as an engineer on the original ARC Tunnel project. “That experience shaped her understanding of the complexities of large, multiagency projects and continues to inform her focus on efficient permitting, interagency coordination, and timely project delivery,” the Department noted.

Jain is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the Northeast Association of State Transportation Officials (NASTO), and The Eastern Transportation Coalition (TETC). Additionally, she is an Advisory Board Member for Civil Engineering at the City College of New York. She holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and master’s degree in physics from Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani, as well as a master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of New York at Buffalo.

Further Reading:

• For NJT, A ‘Rapid Action Plan’

Alstom Toronto Transit Commision in January ordered a new subway train fleet from Alstom. (Alstom Rendering)

Alstom on April 1 reported the appointment of Martin Sion as CEO. He succeeds Henri Poupart-Lafarge, who, after a decade at the throttle, has decided not to seek a further term as CEO.

“Under Henri Poupart-Lafarge’s leadership since 2016, Alstom achieved a strong leadership position in the global rail industry, marked by significant growth, a broadened product portfolio, and a reputation for strong partnerships worldwide,” the company reported. “Henri’s tenure saw the company’s revenues rise from around €6 billion to €18.5 billion with a profitability among the highest in the industry. The successful integration of Bombardier Transportation [in 2021] https://www.railwayage.com/cs/alstom-completes-bombardier-transportation-takeover/ gave Alstom the power, the scale, and the competitiveness required to be one of the world leaders in rail transportation. The Board of Directors expresses its deep gratitude for Henri’s many achievements and unwavering dedication, which have positioned Alstom well to seize the opportunities of a rapidly evolving transportation market worldwide.”

Philippe Petitcolin, Chairman of Alstom’s Board of Directors, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Martin Sion as our new CEO. Martin brings a wealth of experience in industrial leadership, most recently as CEO of ArianeGroup. We are confident that Martin will further reinforce Alstom’s execution capabilities and lead the company forward to realize the ambitions set. I would like to thank Henri Poupart-Lafarge for his long term vision and commitment to making Alstom the leader it is today.” 

Martin Sion said: “I am extremely honored to join Alstom and look forward to working with the talented teams to advance the decarbonisation of transport and deliver innovative mobility solutions worldwide. I thank Henri for his leadership and for laying solid foundations, including building a capable leadership team that will enable Alstom’s continued success.”

Further Reading:

• Toronto Commuter Operating Contract Extension Signed
• Amtrak Releases Video on Fleet Maintenance Facility Program
• Toronto Orders New Subway Train Fleet
• Mexico Awards $1B Passenger Fleet Contract
• Finch West LRT Opens
• Alstom Appoints North American VP, RSC
• Alstom, CTDOT Unveil Commuter Railcar Mockup

Miner Miner’s dual cylinder air-powered AggreGate. (Miner Photograph)

Miner, a railcar component manufacturer based in Geneva, Ill., has announced that Mike Downey has joined its sales team as a General Sales Manager and that Michael List has been appointed to its field services team as a representative.

“Downey brings more than 30 years of commercial, operational, and strategic experience in the North American rail industry,” said Paul Aspengren, Director of Sales for Miner, which has more than 130 years of experience in railcar equipment design and manufacturing, and supplies draft gears, brake beams, outlet gates, constant contact side bearings, and other high-performance components. “His deep understanding of rail operations, market dynamics and customer needs will be a tremendous asset as Miner continues to grow and deliver industry‑leading railcar components and systems. We’re excited to welcome Mike to the Miner team and look forward to the expertise and energy he brings.”

Downey, a bilingual business development professional, has held senior sales and marketing roles with major railcar lessors, as well as Class I, short line and passenger railways. He holds an MBA from the University of Ottawa, along with degrees from McGill University.

Downey said: “My values align closely with Miner’s commitment to engineering excellence and customer‑focused innovation. I’m excited to bring that commitment to our customers and help them achieve and exceed their goals and expectations.”

List began his career in 2001 as a welder with FreightCar America in Danville, Ill. He advanced to Quality Manager, and established quality programs across multiple facilities, while leading engineering inspections. In 2017, he changed gears and became a Service Engineer, primarily supporting customers in the field. His expertise spans hot-bearing inspections, truck teardowns, product promotion, and technical support.

“List brings to Miner deep technical expertise and a passion for solving complex challenges, with more than two decades of rail industry experience,” Paul Aspengren said. “His dedication and troubleshooting skills have earned him an impressive reputation for excellence in quality inspection, automated testing, and leadership roles.”

Further Reading:

• On the Rocks
• Force Control
• High Expectations, Hot Market
• Miner Celebrates 40 Years of AggreGate® Ballast Discharge Systems
• For Miner, a ‘Milestone’

The post People News: NJDOT, Alstom, Miner appeared first on Railway Age.

Apollo 17 in December 1972 was NASA’s final Project Apollo manned lunar mission. On April 1, 2026, following lengthy delays, the agency returned to manned lunar spaceflight with Artemis II, a mission similar to Apollo 8 in December 1968, which marked the first time that humans ventured beyond Earth orbit. Three railroads—Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern and Florida East Coast—transported essential Artemis II rocket components to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Fla.If all goes as planned, four astronauts will reach the Moon (though not enter lunar orbit as Apollo 8 did), marking the first crewed mission on NASA’s path toward establishing “a sustained lunar presence.” The mission is historic in that it will be the furthest that human beings have ever traveled into space—4,700 miles beyond the dark side of the moon, as they loop around it in a ”free return trajectory.”

Artemis II is crewed by four astronauts: Commander Reid Wiseman (front), Pilot Victor J. Glover (center), Mission Specialist Christina Koch (left), and Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen (right). Glover, Koch, and Hansen are to be the first person of color, woman, and non-American to go beyond low Earth orbit, respectively. Hansen is Canadian and is of the Canadian Space Agency; a 2020 treaty between the United States and Canada actualized his involvement. NASA photo April 1, 2026, 6:35 PM EDT: Artemis II lifts off Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center under nearly 9 million pounds of thrust. NASA photo. NASA photo. NASA photo.

“This 10-day mission will not only test NASA’s pioneering deep space exploration technologies, but it will also lay the foundation for future lunar surface missions,” NASA noted in September 2023. “This mission aims to achieve historic milestones, including landing the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon.”

NASA’s Space Launch System rocket carrying the Orion spacecraft launches the Artemis I unmanned flight test, Nov. 16, 2022, from Launch Complex 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Artemis I was the first integrated flight test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, and ground systems. SLS and Orion launched at 1:47 a.m. EST. NASA/Joel Kowsky photo

UP, NS and FEC joined forces to transport Artemis II SLS booster rocketsfor aeronautics and defense contractor Northrop Grumman. The cross-country rail move took approximately six days, commencing Sept. 19, 2023 on the UP from Corinne, Utah and concluding Sept. 25, 2023 at Jay-Jay Siding, where the FEC main line connects with the NASA Railroad, in Mims, Fla. UP no. 1943, “The Spirit of the Union Pacific,” led the consist on UP territory.

The train traveled through 11 states: Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. NS took charge of the special consist in Memphis, Tenn. On the head end: NS No. 6920, the “Veterans Engine,” which “honors the brave men and women who put everything on the line to protect our freedom and enable us to chase our dreams in space,” NS said.

The NASA Railroad and its connection with the Florida East Coast Railway. NASA Kennedy Space Center illustration OpenRailwayMap.org

“The arrival of the SLS solid rocket booster motor segments is an important turning point as NASA and our Artemis partners begin readying for stacking and launch preparations for Artemis II,” said Amit Kshatriya, Deputy Associate Administrator for the Moon to Mars Program Office at NASA Headquarters, in September 2023 “Fully stacked, these boosters for NASA’s SLS rocket [providing 8.8 million pounds of thrust] are the largest, most powerful ever built for spaceflight and will help send the first astronauts around the Moon in more than 50 years.”

Norfolk Southern photo

“This safe and successful trip is a testament to the incredible dedication and meticulous planning that went into making it a reality,” said former NS Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Paul Duncan in September 2023. “Over the past nine months, the synergy among Northrop Grumman, Norfolk Southern’s Marketing, Transportation and Operations, and Union Pacific and the Florida East Coast Railway has been nothing short of extraordinary. It showcases the power of collaboration and precision in logistics.”

Norfolk Southern photo

“We appreciate Northrop Grumman and NASA for trusting us with their business, and we look forward to continuing to provide safe, reliable transportation solutions for our customers and our country,” said NS Chief Marketing Officer Ed Elkins in September 2023.

December 1968: NASA astronauts (l-r) Jim Lovell, Bill Anders and Frank Borman took Apollo 8 to the Moon, completing 10 orbits. Apollo 8 was the first manned mission of the Saturn 5 booster and the Apollo CSM (Command/Service Module). It did not carry the LM (Lunar Module). The astronauts, in a live TV broadcast on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, read from the Book of Genesis. Seven months later, July 20, 1969: Apollo 11—Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Mike Collins—landed on the Moon. NASA photo European Space Agency illustration of the four-person Orion spacecraft.

Artemis II is the second scheduled mission of NASA’s Artemis program and the first scheduled crewed mission of NASA’s Orion spacecraft, originally planned to be launched in November 2024 but delayed until April 1, 2026. Four astronauts will perform a flyby of the Moon, traveling further from Earth than any humans have ever gone—4,700 miles beyond the dark side of the Moon, and return to Earth via a free-return trajectory. Artemis II is the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17 in 1972. The mission is also the first crewed launch from Launch Complex 39B of the Kennedy Space Center since STS-116 in 2006.

The post Three Railroads and a Moon Shot (Updated April 2, 2026) appeared first on Railway Age.

SEPTA Pictured is the interior of the Bombardier-Built EXO cars that will soon be making their way into SEPTA Regional Rail service. (Courtesy of SEPTA)

SEPTA on April 1 reported that the Exo Board in Quebec has formally approved its $8.58 million bid for 24 coach cars, which will be used to bolster the Regional Rail fleet. The cars, which were built by Bombardier Transportation in the 1980s, will operate with SEPTA’s existing ACS-64 electric locomotives. SEPTA said it is currently working out logistics for transporting the cars from Montreal. SEPTA will perform modifications to the cars’ doors and other systems once they arrive in Pennsylvania, as part of an upgrade program to meet its standards. A timeline for placing the cars into service will be developed later this spring.

Funding for the purchase of these railcars comes from the nearly $220 million in additional capital dollars allocated by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro in November 2025 to support safety upgrades and infrastructure improvements.

SEPTA Map (Courtesy of SEPTA)

“SEPTA has been in contact with transit agencies across North America in recent months about potential railcar purchases, following FRA-mandated inspections and repairs of its 50-year-old Silverliner IV fleet last fall,” the agency said. “The Silverliner IVs make up approximately two-thirds of the Regional Rail fleet, and large portions had to be removed from service while this work was performed. This caused trip cancellations and reduced capacity for several months.

“While required repairs have been completed on most Silverliner IVs, SEPTA has committed to an enhanced maintenance program moving forward to ensure the fleet remains safe and reliable while replacement rail cars are procured. In an effort to avoid further service disruptions, SEPTA has explored shorter-term alternatives such as leasing and purchasing used railcars from other agencies.”

(Courtesy of SEPTA)

Earlier this year, 10 railcars leased from MARC in Maryland were placed into service.

“We are grateful for Gov. Shapiro’s continued support of SEPTA, and we are committed to continuing to deliver improvements for our customers,” SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer said. “These additional railcars will help us enhance reliability and expand capacity for our customers while we work toward replacing our aging Regional Rail fleet.”

Further Reading:

• Report: SEPTA Working to Boost Regional Rail Capacity
• NTSB Recommends Sidelining SEPTA Silverliner IVs
• Exo Selects Transdev Canada for Rail Rolling Equipment Operation, Maintenance
• Montreal’s New CRRC Bilevels Entering Service

Amtrak (Courtesy of NCTCOG)

The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) Transportation Department late last month released a video highlighting Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer.

“The train nearly stopped last year,” NCTCOG said in the announcement. “When money for the popular passenger rail service did not make it into the final state budget in 2025, Dallas-Fort Worth transportation officials stepped in to keep it on the tracks. Last summer, the Regional Transportation Council (RTC) approved a $3.5 million emergency infusion to ensure Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer could keep moving between Fort Worth and Oklahoma City. The funding represents half the state’s biennial contribution to the operation of the Amtrak route.

“The Heartland Flyer is funded jointly by the states of Texas and Oklahoma, the only two states in which the service operates. The Texas Transportation Commission gave final approval for the RTC funding in August 2025. The emergency infusion lasts for a year, meaning more action will be required to keep the train going until the Texas Legislature reconvenes, in January 2027, and has a chance to revisit the matter.

“Significant growth in ridership could help bridge the gap, as the additional revenue realized would reduce the subsidy and could entice more funding partners to come forward. In Fiscal Year 2025, Heartland Flyer ridership grew 1% to almost 81,000 passengers.”

(Courtesy of Amtrak)

The new video covers a trip made by NCTCOG staff members, who traveled the route “to experience first-hand the ease of traveling by train,” NCTCOG said. They also visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, Scissortail Park, Myriad Botanical Gardens and The Jones Assembly restaurant and music venue.

Further Reading:

• Heartland Flyer Gets a Lifeline
• Heartland Flyer End of the Line?

The post Transit Briefs: SEPTA, Amtrak appeared first on Railway Age.

In July 2025, more than two and a half years after Amtrak called on the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to initiate an investigation into “substandard” customer on-time performance for Sunset Limited service between Louisiana and California, citing host freight railroad Union Pacific (UP) as “likely the prime focus of the investigation,” Amtrak and UP settled their differences. On April 1, 2026, they jointly announced reaching an agreement that will allow Amtrak to operate on a five-mile segment of UP-owned track starting near Avondale, La. This reroute of the Sunset Limited onto UP track took effect immediately.

OpenRailwayMap.org

“Amtrak is a key industry partner, and this agreement underscores our ongoing commitment to working with them to enhance both passenger and freight rail services,” said Eric Gehringer, Union Pacific Executive Vice President – Operations.

“We are grateful to have reached this agreement with Union Pacific. Both Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have shown a strong commitment to quality Amtrak passenger rail service,” said Jennifer Mitchell, Amtrak Executive Vice President, Strategy, Planning and Accessibility.

BACKGROUND

“Amtrak and Union Pacific are pleased with a settlement regarding customer on-time performance for Amtrak’s Sunset Limited service,” UP and Amtrak told Railway Age July 31, 2025 in a joint statement. “As a result, Amtrak requested the STB close its investigation. Union Pacific is committed to improving customer on-time performance for the Sunset Limited, as well as continuous training and education for employees with responsibilities to Amtrak under federal law. Amtrak and Union Pacific express their gratitude to the STB for its time and attention to this matter.”

From the STB filing: “The National Railroad Passenger Corp. (‘Amtrak’) hereby notifies the SurfaceTransportation Board that it has reached a settlement with Union Pacific Railroad (‘Union Pacific’) regarding the performance of the Sunset Limited and therefore moves to dismiss its Complaint with prejudice and to terminate this proceeding. Amtrak is authorized to represent that all parties the Board has deemed are necessary parties to this investigation except Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (‘CPKC’) consent to this requested relief … Under the settlement that Amtrak has reached with Union Pacific in this matter, Union Pacific has made commitments regarding the Sunset Limited’s customer ontime performance and has further agreed to consequences if it does not meet those commitments. Union Pacific has also agreed that all Union Pacific personnel with any responsibility for Amtrak service will receive continuous training and education as part of a compliance program to understand their responsibilities to Amtrak under federal law. Amtrak and Union Pacific have also agreed on a process by which they hope to certify a schedule for the Sunset Limited. Amtrak therefore believes that the parties have achieved an outcome in this proceeding that is fully consistent with the purposes of an investigation under PRIIA Section 213.”

Download STB “DOCKET NO. NOR 42175, AMTRAK NOTIFICATION OF SETTLEMENT AND MOTION FOR DISMISSAL OF COMPLAINT AND TERMINATION OF INVESTIGATION,” below.

This development came a mere two days after UP and Norfolk Southern announced their proposed merger and filed a notice of intent with the STB.

The basis of the Amtrak-UP Sunset Limited dispute can be traced back roughly 15 years. In November 2020 under PRIIA (Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008), the Federal Railroad Administration adopted a final rule establishing metrics and minimum standards for measuring the performance and service quality of Amtrak’s intercity passenger trains. FRA’s action followed nearly 10 years of a contentious battle involving Amtrak and its host freight railroads that twice reached the U.S. Supreme Court. 

“Amtrak in December 2022 reported that in every quarter since the standard became applicable, the westbound Sunset Limited, Train 1 ‘has failed to meet the applicable standards by wide margins,’” Railway Age Executive Editor Marybeth Luczak reported in early January 2023. “’Customer On-Time Performance (COTP) was 40% in the first fiscal quarter of 2022. That figure was even lower in subsequent quarters, declining to 24% in the second fiscal quarter of 2022, 10% in the third fiscal quarter of 2022, and 11% in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2022.‘ Additionally, Amtrak said the eastbound Sunset Limited, Train 2, ‘has demonstrated poor and deteriorating COTP. COTP for the Sunset Limited 2 was 40% in the first fiscal quarter of 2022. That figure declined to 35% in the second fiscal quarter of 2022, 11% in the third fiscal quarter of 2022, and 7% in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2022.’ Amtrak said the substandard on-time performance of these trains ‘is due largely to causes that can and should be addressed by UP.’ These include the ‘extraordinary amount of freight train interference … that Sunset Limited trains encounter on lengthy segments of the Sunset Limited service hosted by UP; the use of enterprise-wide dispatching algorithms, policies, and/or practices that deny Sunset Limited Trains their statutory right to preference; and other UP operational practices that result in systemic violations of Amtrak’s rights. As a result of these practices, and over the recently concluded fiscal year, UP imposed on the average Sunset Limited train more than 15 instances of FTI [freight train interference] per trip, resulting in more than 4 hours of delay for Amtrak passengers per trip. UP has routinely prioritized freight trains over Sunset Limited trains, including when resolving meets and passes, when determining access to main lines, and when otherwise failing to ensure that tracks are available for the scheduled and infrequent transit of Sunset Limited trains. Due in large part to these unlawful practices, the Sunset Limited is currently the worst-performing route for customers on Amtrak’s network.’”

UP asked the STB on Jan. 27, 2023, to order mediation for Amtrak, UP and the other Class I railroads that host the Sunset Limited. Six months later, STB reported that the standard had been met for initiating an investigation into the on-time performance of the Sunset Limited under PRIIA Section 213, and one month later set a procedural schedule that was to include STB-led fact-finding interrogatories and document production requirements, as well as party-led discovery.

INTERESTING TIMING

“How shocking is it that, at the same time that Union Pacific is going before the Surface Transportation Board seeking approval for its merger with Norfolk Southern, UP would suddenly reach a settlement with Amtrak over the Sunset Limited, when, coincidentally, Karen Hedlund, one of the STB voting members, has a special interest in passenger rail?” comments Railway Age Capitol Hill Contributing Editor Frank N. Wilner.

309844Download

The post Amtrak, Union Pacific Settle Sunset Limited Dispute (Updated April 2, 2026) appeared first on Railway Age.

BNSF

Members of the TCU intermodal group on April 1 announced the ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement with BNSF Railway. The five-year agreement covers BNSF members at Cicero, Corwith, Seattle, and Memphis Intermodal facilities.

“The ratification of this agreement is a clear reflection of the strength of our partnership with TCU’s intermodal team members,” said BNSF President and Chief Executive Officer Katie Farmer. “Their confidence in this path forward energizes our efforts to keep raising the bar on our shared purpose of safety and service.”

The agreement covers 746 employees and gives covered members wage increases totaling 17.5% over five years (18.8% compounded) with retroactive pay beginning July 1, 2025, as well as accelerated enhancements in vacation and preserved health care benefits.

“The overwhelming support for this agreement is a testament to the hard work and preparation of our bargaining committee,” said Charles Soukep, TCU national representative.

The agreement follows the same terms as the current national pattern. More than 95% of BNSF’s workforce is currently covered by ratified agreements, according to the Class I.

NS

NS recently congratulated Mercedes-Benz on its $4 billion investment in its Alabama operations.

(Image Courtesy of Made in Alabama)

“We’re proud to serve the Mercedes‑Benz U.S. International plant in Vance today and to support American manufacturing through a safe, reliable, and sustainable rail network. Investments like this strengthen U.S. supply chains, create jobs, and reinforce the Southeast’s role as a global automotive and export hub,” the Class I wrote in a social media post. “We look forward to continuing our partnership as Mercedes‑Benz grows its footprint in Alabama!”

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

Marmon Rail announced the launch of a unified Railserve brand, bringing together Railserve, Ameritrack, and Powerhouse under a single brand, Railserve, with a refreshed visual identity. The move, the company says, “simplifies how Marmon Rail’s railyard services come together making it easier for customers to understand the services available and to connect with the right team.”

“Customers work with us in different ways,” said Railserve President Laurie Stiles. “Bringing our capabilities together under Railserve makes it easier for customers to see the full range of services we provide. It creates one clear identity in the market and one simple way for customers to engage with us.”

Under the Railserve brand, customers have access to industrial switching, material handling, transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive repair—delivered across a broad geographic footprint. This singular brand, the company says, “reflects how customers already work with the organization today and supports clearer accountability and better coordination when work spans multiple service areas.”

“A unified Railserve organization strengthens our position in the market and supports our long-term strategy,” said Chris Hagge, Group President, Marmon Railyard and Repair Services. “It creates a strong platform for growth and continued investment, while making it easier to bring our capabilities together to support customers more effectively.”

As Railserve, the organization combines the strength of three experienced teams under one new identity, “making it easier to coordinate work, deliver connected solutions, and support customers more completely,” the company noted. “This builds on how the business already operates today and positions Railserve for continued growth.”

The post Marmon Rail Announces Unified Railserve Brand appeared first on Railway Age.

Hitachi Rail on April 2 reported entering into a definitive agreement to acquire Woodbury, N.Y.-based Clever Devices, whose products are said to improve fleet management, the passenger experience, and operational efficiency for public transportation, including passenger rail, fixed-route, bus rapid transit, and paratransit. It has 12 locations in the United States, Canada, Brazil and Italy.

“The proposed acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and expected 2026 revenues of over $220 million, marks a significant step in Hitachi Rail’s strategy to operate as a leading global digital mobility player,” Hitachi Rail said. “Upon completion, the business will extend its footprint from rail to multimodal mobility and strengthen its presence in North America.”

With more than 600 employees and a customer base that includes eight of the ten largest North American transit agencies, Clever Devices “brings a robust portfolio and a proven track record of innovation and delivery,” Hitachi Rail reported. “Its Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions are a critical enabler to growing public transport, making it more attractive and efficient by improving accuracy of information and boosting service punctuality. Clever Devices’ solutions are deployed across public mobility, including buses as well as railway systems. Alongside its strength in North America, Clever Devices has achieved substantial growth in countries such as Brazil and Chile, as well as in Europe in markets including Italy.”

(Courtesy of Hitachi Rail)

Clever Devices’ offerings include:

• Fleet monitoring products, such as Automatic Vehicle Monitoring, which is said to provide a “single source” of diagnostic information; Clever CAD, which is said to enable dispatchers to “communicate directly with vehicles and manage routes more effectively”; Clever Works for “maximizing integrity and efficiency” of data; and the Electric Vehicle Management Solution.
• Passenger-facing products, including live bus time updates; Automated Voice Announcement; and Clever Vision, which provides real time information to passengers on board.
• Safety and security; business intelligence; and communications products.

(Courtesy of Hitachi Rail)

According to Hitachi Rail, Clever Devices’ portfolio of onboard and centralized data solutions will complement its HMAX Mobility suite. HMAX Mobility is described as a digital asset management platform that “connects data from fleets of trains, wayside signaling assets, and track infrastructure to create an operational twin of railways.” It is said to bring together “advanced sensor technology, deep rail expertise, and the latest in AI and edge computing to maximize rail performance, extend asset life, and optimize costs.”

Hitachi Rail pointed out that combining Clever Devices’ fleet management technology with its Operation Control Centers “will enable real time multimodal solutions for urban public transport systems,” and “this technology will enable connected and sustainable intermodal transport and support the transition to more sustainable and efficient transit systems.”

The transaction, “subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions” and “the receipt of regulatory approvals,” is expected to close later this year, according to Hitachi Rail, which is being advised by J.P. Morgan and Ropes & Gray LLP.

“This investment is an important milestone in our strategy to accelerate the digital transformation of public mobility,” Hitachi Rail Group CEO Giuseppe Marino said. “Clever Devices’ proven expertise in intelligent transportation systems, combined with our global scale and our HMAX Mobility platform, will allow us to offer our customers a suite of data‑driven mobility solutions that optimize transport infrastructure and services. Together, we will expand our capabilities beyond rail and deepen our presence in North America, supporting cities as they transition to more innovative and efficient transport networks.”

Separately, Hitachi Rail last fall opened its $110 million “digital” Hagerstown, Md., plant, and in February announced a C$30 million investment in a new Canadian headquarters. Clever Devices in late 2025 was awarded contract from Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for the Advanced Transportation Management System II (ATMS II) dispatching and vehicle location program. The technology will be implemented on more than 500 railcars among six rail yards and 2,400 buses across 12 depots.

Further Reading:

• SEPTA Upgrades Media–Sharon Hill Line With Hitachi Rail CBTC
• New Hitachi Rail Metro Cars Enter Revenue Service in Maryland
• From Expo 86 to Everyday Essential: SkyTrain Marks 40 Years
• Hitachi Rail Releases 2025 Sustainability Statement
• Hitachi Rail Adopts New NVIDIA IGX Thor Solution for Real-Time AI
• Hitachi Rail Signs MOU With Ontario Tech University to Support Railway Engineering Specialization
• Hitachi Rail Acquires Omnicom
• SelTrac G9 Development Under Way
• The Future of Rolling Stock, Sponsored by Clever Devices – RAIL GROUP ON AIR

Join Railway Age on Oct. 21-22, 2026, for the Next-Gen Rail Systems Conference (formerly Next-Gen Train Control), whose program will encompass the entire system, examining how signaling and train control technologies are modified and improved by telematics, artificial intelligence, deep data analysis, cybersecurity measures and more. Presented by leading experts, Next-Gen Rail Systems will feature in-depth technical sessions and comprehensive project updates on evolutionary and revolutionary developments in advanced and emerging technologies.

The post Hitachi Rail Agrees to Acquire Clever Devices appeared first on Railway Age.

Norfolk Southern (NS) will lease its Doraville rail corridor and transload terminal in Georgia to Jaguar Transport Holdings LLC (Jaguar), which is slated to operate local switching service and “make capital improvements to expand yard capacity and support future growth.”

Map Showing Doraville, Ga., Courtesy of OpenRailwayMap.org.

“Located near I-285 and I-85, the Doraville rail corridor serves a cluster of industrial and logistics businesses in northeast metro Atlanta,” NS said in a March 31 announcement. (Editor’s Note: NS released a similar announcement on April 1.) “Through local switching and transload access, the corridor serves both rail-adjacent customers and regional shippers that depend on truck-to-rail connectivity.”

Under the agreement, Jaguar will provide “dedicated local service to enable faster first- and last-mile connections while integrating closely with NS’s Doraville transload facility,” according to NS. The Class I expects the move to:

• “Improve interchange fluidity.
• “Support higher-margin freight.
• “Enable new industrial and warehouse development in the corridor.”

Jaguar has also “committed to performance standards and growth covenants designed to ensure long-term value creation for both companies,” NS noted.

Headquartered in Joplin, Mo., Jaguar operates 13 short lines and multiple transload facilities across the U.S. and “has a track record of generating strong early-stage volume growth after assuming local operations,” according to NS.

The Class I said the Doraville agreement with Jaguar not only reflects its “broader short line strategy: using targeted partnerships to extend network reach, improve local service, and unlock new markets that are best served by specialized operators,” but also supports its “long-term vision for a future combined network with Union Pacific.” NS noted that Jaguar is already a short line partner of UP, “supporting eventual operational alignment and a scalable model for local-market growth across a larger national network.”

Jaguar in March 2025 entered into an agreement with UP to provide short line service in the Central Industrial District of Kansas City; the Class I leased about 12 acres of land and four miles of track to Jaguar. UP said at the time that the move allowed it to focus on “fast, reliable long-haul service from the site in central Kansas City,” while Jaguar would offer five-day-a-week short-haul services via its new short line, the Kansas City West Bottoms Railroad.

“This [NS-Jaguar] deal is completely focused on freight growth, delivering increased capacity, and providing expanded local service in the important metro Atlanta market,” said Stefan Loeb, NS Vice President of Business Development and First- and Final-Mile Markets. “We value Jaguar’s experience in short line and transload operations, as well as its proven track record of success. This opportunity continues to demonstrate that short lines and transloaders are a crucial part of Norfolk Southern’s growth strategy.”

“We’re grateful for Norfolk Southern’s trust as we assume operations in Doraville,” noted Tim Enayati, Senior Vice President of Commercial Development at Jaguar. “Jaguar is committed to delivering exceptional service to our customers and being a reliable growth partner for Norfolk Southern in Atlanta.”

“From Day One, our focus will be on safe and reliable service,” Jaguar Senior Vice President of Operations Dan Price added. “We know how vital this corridor is to these customers, and we will bring discipline, responsiveness, and the focus it takes to earn their confidence and support future growth.”

Further Reading:

• NS: Short Lines ‘Play a Crucial Role’
• NEARS: Consolidation, Weak Economic Backdrop Highlighted
• Jaguar Acquires CBRW, CWAR
• JTH Operating DTL
• New Short Line in North Carolina
• Jaguar Launches Charlotte Western
• Jaguar Launches MER
• Jaguar Adds Oklahoma Rail Park Ops
• Jaguar Transport Picks Up Five New Short Lines

The post NS, Jaguar Team for Growth in Northeast Metro Atlanta appeared first on Railway Age.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

As Southern California prepares to welcome the world for a summer of internationally watched soccer matches, the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency, which manages the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® service, and Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board announced a new partnership on March 30 “designed to help fans experience Los Angeles and the greater Southern California region with ease—on match days and beyond.”

Pacific Surfliner now offers an additional daily roundtrip between San Diego and Los Angeles. Fans across Southern California will experience this partnership firsthand as a brightly wrapped train car travels along the 351-mile coastal corridor “to build excitement, celebrate the region, and remind riders of the world’s most-watched soccer matches coming to Los Angeles this summer.”

“Southern California is built for moments like this—world-class sports, iconic destinations, and a connected coastline,” said Jason Jewell, LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Managing Director. “By partnering with the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, we’re making it easier for soccer fans from around the globe, as well as local supporters, to experience Los Angeles without the stress of traffic or parking, while also discovering everything Southern California has to offer.”

As part of the partnership, travelers can unlock a 20% discount on Pacific Surfliner fares to and from Los Angeles between May 1, 2026 – July 15, 2026.

“Los Angeles is ready to welcome fans from near and far this summer,” said Eileen Hanson, Chief Marketing Officer of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board. “Pacific Surfliner makes it easy for visitors to experience LA like a local by arriving sustainably, exploring beyond the stadium, and discovering the diverse neighborhoods, beaches, and iconic attractions that make Los Angeles such a dynamic global destination.”

More information is available here.

TriMet

On Saturday, April 18, from noon to 3 p.m., TriMet will host a public celebration of its Type 1 MAX trains before they go out of service forever.

The event will be at Holladay Park in Northeast Portland, adjacent to the agency’s Lloyd Center/NE 11th Ave MAX Station. Anyone can join in this historic moment and interact, possibly for the last time, with a piece of regional and national transit history. It’s an opportunity to say goodbye to a train that has provided hundreds of thousands of trips over the past 40 years.

The Type 1s launched modern light rail in the Portland metro area in 1986. In doing so, the vehicles set a standard for other public transportation agencies to follow. After nearly four decades of service—providing millions of trips and traveling millions of miles—the remaining Type 1s are now 10 years past their due date, with their final days numbered.

TriMet began decommissioning the vehicles—preparing them for recycling or donation—in 2024 as the agency began introducing its newest trains, the Type 6s. The Type 1s, among the oldest light rail vehicles still operating on a major transit system in the United States, had exceeded their lifecycle, and replacement parts for them had become difficult to source.

“As much as the Type 1 has served as a reliable means of transportation for countless people over the decades, it has also acted as an inspiration for what’s possible here at TriMet,” TriMet General Manager Sam Desue Jr. said. “Without top-notch mechanics, operators, supervisors, cleaners and others, these trains would not have been able to provide the decades of service they have.”

The April 18 event will celebrate the 40-year history of the Type 1 and the employees, current and retired, who helped keep these trains running amid a changing system.

MBTA

Governor Maura Healey on March 31 announced a series of summer fare promotions and discounts on the MBTA Commuter Rail “to lower costs for riders, support regular commuters and encourage more people to choose public transportation as Massachusetts prepares for a busy season of major events across the state.”

Governor Healey made the announcement at North Station alongside Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng on Monday, where they outlined four promotions that will run on the Commuter Rail through June, July, and August, including Free Fridays, a 50% discount on monthly passes, and more. Monthly passholders will save between $321 and $639 over the summer, depending on their route. 

With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving, the MBTA noted. These steps will help residents and visitors get around during a busy summer while making public transportation a more convenient choice for everyday travel.   

“As we prepare for events like the World Cup, MA250, Tall Ships, and for millions of visitors to experience all that Massachusetts has to offer, we want to thank our regular riders that rely on us 365 days a year for your patience and continuing to choose transit during this unprecedented summer. These free and discounted summer Commuter Rail services are a Thank You to our regular passengers and to encourage more people to experience the convenience of leaving their cars at home and choosing transit,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “We are committed to furthering MassDOT’s mission of providing safe, reliable, and resilient transportation in every corner of the state, and we hope passengers across the region take advantage of our Free Summer Fridays, summer discounts, and bringing a friend on the Commuter Rail on weekends for just $1 each way to explore the many wonderful recreational opportunities Massachusetts has to offer just a train trip away.”

The following fare promotions will be available through June, July and August 2026: 

Free Summer Fridays

All Commuter Rail service will be free on Fridays in June, July, and August 2026, including Juneteenth and July 3. Regular fares will be in place for Boston Stadium Trains, the CapeFLYER, and any other special event trains to Foxboro.

50% Discount on Monthly Commuter Rail Passes

Calendar month Commuter Rail passes for June, July, and August 2026 will be discounted by 50%. This discount applies to full fare and reduced fare monthly passes for Zones 1 through 10, Interzone 1 through 10, and Commuter Ferry passes. This discount will not apply to Zone 1A passes. All non-calendar month Commuter Rail products (for example, single-ride tickets, 5-Day Flex Passes, and Weekend Passes) will remain at their standard prices.

Expanded Weekend Travel for Monthly Pass Holders

Monthly Commuter Rail passes will be valid for travel to any zone on weekends. Zone 1 through 10 pass holders may travel through Zone 10, and Interzone pass holders may travel through Interzone 10. This does not apply to Zone 1A passes or ferry service. Regular fares will be in place for Boston Stadium Trains, the CapeFLYER, and any other special event trains to Foxboro.

$1 Weekend “Summer Companion” Fare for Commuter Rail Monthly Pass Holders

Monthly pass holders may bring one companion on any weekend Commuter Rail trip covered by their pass for $1 each way. This offer is limited to one companion per pass holder. Regular fares will remain in place for Boston Stadium trains, the CapeFLYER, and other special event trains to Foxboro. 

To support increased ridership during the FIFA World Cup, the MBTA will temporarily adjust Commuter Rail schedules in June and July, including expanded service to accommodate up to 20,000 passengers on 14 trains per match day to Boston Stadium.

The MBTA says it recognizes that these temporary schedule changes may affect regular riders. These fare discounts are intended to offset those impacts, support regular riders, and encourage more people to choose transit during a busy summer season and beyond.

The post Transit Briefs: Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, TriMet, MBTA appeared first on Railway Age.

Norfolk Southern (NS) will lease its Doraville rail corridor and transload terminal in Georgia to Jaguar Transport Holdings LLC (Jaguar), which is slated to operate local switching service and “make capital improvements to expand yard capacity and support future growth.”

Map Showing Doraville, Ga., Courtesy of OpenRailwayMap.org.

“Located near I-285 and I-85, the Doraville rail corridor serves a cluster of industrial and logistics businesses in northeast metro Atlanta,” NS said in a March 31 announcement. (Editor’s Note: NS released a similar announcement on April 1.) “Through local switching and transload access, the corridor serves both rail-adjacent customers and regional shippers that depend on truck-to-rail connectivity.”

Under the agreement, Jaguar will provide “dedicated local service to enable faster first- and last-mile connections while integrating closely with NS’s Doraville transload facility,” according to NS. The Class I expects the move to:

• “Improve interchange fluidity.
• “Support higher-margin freight.
• “Enable new industrial and warehouse development in the corridor.”

Jaguar has also “committed to performance standards and growth covenants designed to ensure long-term value creation for both companies,” NS noted.

Headquartered in Joplin, Mo., Jaguar operates 13 short lines and multiple transload facilities across the U.S. and “has a track record of generating strong early-stage volume growth after assuming local operations,” according to NS.

The Class I said the Doraville agreement with Jaguar not only reflects its “broader short line strategy: using targeted partnerships to extend network reach, improve local service, and unlock new markets that are best served by specialized operators,” but also supports its “long-term vision for a future combined network with Union Pacific.” NS noted that Jaguar is already a short line partner of UP, “supporting eventual operational alignment and a scalable model for local-market growth across a larger national network.”

Jaguar in March 2025 entered into an agreement with UP to provide short line service in the Central Industrial District of Kansas City; the Class I leased about 12 acres of land and four miles of track to Jaguar. UP said at the time that the move allowed it to focus on “fast, reliable long-haul service from the site in central Kansas City,” while Jaguar would offer five-day-a-week short-haul services via its new short line, the Kansas City West Bottoms Railroad.

“This [NS-Jaguar] deal is completely focused on freight growth, delivering increased capacity, and providing expanded local service in the important metro Atlanta market,” said Stefan Loeb, NS Vice President of Business Development and First- and Final-Mile Markets. “We value Jaguar’s experience in short line and transload operations, as well as its proven track record of success. This opportunity continues to demonstrate that short lines and transloaders are a crucial part of Norfolk Southern’s growth strategy.”

“We’re grateful for Norfolk Southern’s trust as we assume operations in Doraville,” noted Tim Enayati, Senior Vice President of Commercial Development at Jaguar. “Jaguar is committed to delivering exceptional service to our customers and being a reliable growth partner for Norfolk Southern in Atlanta.”

“From Day One, our focus will be on safe and reliable service,” Jaguar Senior Vice President of Operations Dan Price added. “We know how vital this corridor is to these customers, and we will bring discipline, responsiveness, and the focus it takes to earn their confidence and support future growth.”

Further Reading:

• NS: Short Lines ‘Play a Crucial Role’
• NEARS: Consolidation, Weak Economic Backdrop Highlighted
• Jaguar Acquires CBRW, CWAR
• JTH Operating DTL
• New Short Line in North Carolina
• Jaguar Launches Charlotte Western
• Jaguar Launches MER
• Jaguar Adds Oklahoma Rail Park Ops
• Jaguar Transport Picks Up Five New Short Lines

The post NS, Jaguar Team for Growth in Northeast Metro Atlanta appeared first on Railway Age.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

As Southern California prepares to welcome the world for a summer of internationally watched soccer matches, the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency, which manages the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® service, and Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board announced a new partnership on March 30 “designed to help fans experience Los Angeles and the greater Southern California region with ease—on match days and beyond.”

Pacific Surfliner now offers an additional daily roundtrip between San Diego and Los Angeles. Fans across Southern California will experience this partnership firsthand as a brightly wrapped train car travels along the 351-mile coastal corridor “to build excitement, celebrate the region, and remind riders of the world’s most-watched soccer matches coming to Los Angeles this summer.”

“Southern California is built for moments like this—world-class sports, iconic destinations, and a connected coastline,” said Jason Jewell, LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Managing Director. “By partnering with the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, we’re making it easier for soccer fans from around the globe, as well as local supporters, to experience Los Angeles without the stress of traffic or parking, while also discovering everything Southern California has to offer.”

As part of the partnership, travelers can unlock a 20% discount on Pacific Surfliner fares to and from Los Angeles between May 1, 2026 – July 15, 2026.

“Los Angeles is ready to welcome fans from near and far this summer,” said Eileen Hanson, Chief Marketing Officer of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board. “Pacific Surfliner makes it easy for visitors to experience LA like a local by arriving sustainably, exploring beyond the stadium, and discovering the diverse neighborhoods, beaches, and iconic attractions that make Los Angeles such a dynamic global destination.”

More information is available here.

TriMet

On Saturday, April 18, from noon to 3 p.m., TriMet will host a public celebration of its Type 1 MAX trains before they go out of service forever.

The event will be at Holladay Park in Northeast Portland, adjacent to the agency’s Lloyd Center/NE 11th Ave MAX Station. Anyone can join in this historic moment and interact, possibly for the last time, with a piece of regional and national transit history. It’s an opportunity to say goodbye to a train that has provided hundreds of thousands of trips over the past 40 years.

The Type 1s launched modern light rail in the Portland metro area in 1986. In doing so, the vehicles set a standard for other public transportation agencies to follow. After nearly four decades of service—providing millions of trips and traveling millions of miles—the remaining Type 1s are now 10 years past their due date, with their final days numbered.

TriMet began decommissioning the vehicles—preparing them for recycling or donation—in 2024 as the agency began introducing its newest trains, the Type 6s. The Type 1s, among the oldest light rail vehicles still operating on a major transit system in the United States, had exceeded their lifecycle, and replacement parts for them had become difficult to source.

“As much as the Type 1 has served as a reliable means of transportation for countless people over the decades, it has also acted as an inspiration for what’s possible here at TriMet,” TriMet General Manager Sam Desue Jr. said. “Without top-notch mechanics, operators, supervisors, cleaners and others, these trains would not have been able to provide the decades of service they have.”

The April 18 event will celebrate the 40-year history of the Type 1 and the employees, current and retired, who helped keep these trains running amid a changing system.

MBTA

Governor Maura Healey on March 31 announced a series of summer fare promotions and discounts on the MBTA Commuter Rail “to lower costs for riders, support regular commuters and encourage more people to choose public transportation as Massachusetts prepares for a busy season of major events across the state.”

Governor Healey made the announcement at North Station alongside Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng on Monday, where they outlined four promotions that will run on the Commuter Rail through June, July, and August, including Free Fridays, a 50% discount on monthly passes, and more. Monthly passholders will save between $321 and $639 over the summer, depending on their route. 

With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving, the MBTA noted. These steps will help residents and visitors get around during a busy summer while making public transportation a more convenient choice for everyday travel.   

“As we prepare for events like the World Cup, MA250, Tall Ships, and for millions of visitors to experience all that Massachusetts has to offer, we want to thank our regular riders that rely on us 365 days a year for your patience and continuing to choose transit during this unprecedented summer. These free and discounted summer Commuter Rail services are a Thank You to our regular passengers and to encourage more people to experience the convenience of leaving their cars at home and choosing transit,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “We are committed to furthering MassDOT’s mission of providing safe, reliable, and resilient transportation in every corner of the state, and we hope passengers across the region take advantage of our Free Summer Fridays, summer discounts, and bringing a friend on the Commuter Rail on weekends for just $1 each way to explore the many wonderful recreational opportunities Massachusetts has to offer just a train trip away.”

The following fare promotions will be available through June, July and August 2026: 

Free Summer Fridays

All Commuter Rail service will be free on Fridays in June, July, and August 2026, including Juneteenth and July 3. Regular fares will be in place for Boston Stadium Trains, the CapeFLYER, and any other special event trains to Foxboro.

50% Discount on Monthly Commuter Rail Passes

Calendar month Commuter Rail passes for June, July, and August 2026 will be discounted by 50%. This discount applies to full fare and reduced fare monthly passes for Zones 1 through 10, Interzone 1 through 10, and Commuter Ferry passes. This discount will not apply to Zone 1A passes. All non-calendar month Commuter Rail products (for example, single-ride tickets, 5-Day Flex Passes, and Weekend Passes) will remain at their standard prices.

Expanded Weekend Travel for Monthly Pass Holders

Monthly Commuter Rail passes will be valid for travel to any zone on weekends. Zone 1 through 10 pass holders may travel through Zone 10, and Interzone pass holders may travel through Interzone 10. This does not apply to Zone 1A passes or ferry service. Regular fares will be in place for Boston Stadium Trains, the CapeFLYER, and any other special event trains to Foxboro.

$1 Weekend “Summer Companion” Fare for Commuter Rail Monthly Pass Holders

Monthly pass holders may bring one companion on any weekend Commuter Rail trip covered by their pass for $1 each way. This offer is limited to one companion per pass holder. Regular fares will remain in place for Boston Stadium trains, the CapeFLYER, and other special event trains to Foxboro. 

To support increased ridership during the FIFA World Cup, the MBTA will temporarily adjust Commuter Rail schedules in June and July, including expanded service to accommodate up to 20,000 passengers on 14 trains per match day to Boston Stadium.

The MBTA says it recognizes that these temporary schedule changes may affect regular riders. These fare discounts are intended to offset those impacts, support regular riders, and encourage more people to choose transit during a busy summer season and beyond.

The post Transit Briefs: Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, TriMet, MBTA appeared first on Railway Age.

Total carloads for the week ending March 28, 2026, were 233,833 carloads, down 0.8% from the prior-year period, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 282,088 containers and trailers, up 1.6% from last year, according to the AAR.

Six of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2025. They included chemicals, up 2,027 carloads, to 36,589; petroleum and petroleum products, up 1,129 carloads, to 11,239; and grain, up 819 carloads, to 24,010. Commodity groups that posted declines included coal, down 5,295 carloads, to 57,636; nonmetallic minerals, down 1,186 carloads, to 30,174; and metallic ores and metals, down 406 carloads, to 20,201.

For the first 12 weeks of 2026, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,684,108 carloads, rising 4.2% from the same point last year; and 3,311,403 intermodal units, down 0.2% from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 12 weeks of this year was 5,995,511 carloads and intermodal units, a 1.7% increase over 2025.

North American rail volume for the week ending March 28, 2026, on nine reporting U.S., Canadian, and Mexican railroads totaled 342,214 carloads, dipping 2.1% from the same week last year, and 371,548 intermodal units, gaining 0.8% over last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America came in at 713,762 carloads and intermodal units, down 0.6%. North American rail volume for the first 12 weeks of this year was 8,245,424 carloads and intermodal units, up 1.8% from 2025.

For the week ending March 28, 2026, Canadian railroads reported 94,298 carloads, falling 2.4%, and 73,994 intermodal units, dropping 4.8% compared with the same week in 2025. For the first 12 weeks of this year, they reported cumulative rail traffic volume of 1,932,183 carloads, containers, and trailers, up 0.9%.

Mexican railroads reported 14,083 carloads for the week ending March 28, 2026, an 18.5% decrease compared with the same week last year, and 15,466 intermodal units, a 16.9% gain over last year. Their cumulative volume for the first 12 weeks of this year was 317,730 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, rising 10.2% from the same point in 2025.

Further Reading:

• AAR: North American Rail Volume Up Slightly Through Week 11
• AAR: U.S. Rail Traffic Up for Fourth Consecutive Week

The post AAR: U.S. Rail Traffic Flat for Week 12 appeared first on Railway Age.

CSX 2025-csx-annual-reportDownload

CSX on March 30 reported issuing a 2025 Annual Report (above), outlining two “landmark” projects—its completion and reopening of Baltimore’s Howard Street Tunnel and the rebuilding of 60 miles of the Blue Ridge Subdivision—and citing improved safety and other efforts. This follows the Class I’s fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial report, released in January.

“2025 was a challenging year for CSX,” Steve Angel wrote in the report’s letter to shareholders. “Severe weather disruptions and the simultaneous execution of two large-scale infrastructure projects constrained our network early in the year, and a soft freight environment and unplanned customer closures offered little support. Revenue declined 3% on flat volume, operating margin decreased 400 basis points and adjusted operating margin contracted 360 basis points. Earnings per diluted share decreased to $1.54, with adjusted earnings per diluted share at $1.61. These results fell short of our expectations. But our employees accomplished a great deal in 2025 that positions this railroad for stronger operational and financial performance in 2026. They delivered two of the most consequential infrastructure projects in CSX’s recent history, recovered service performance through the second half of the year, and improved safety across the network.”

Among the report’s key highlights:

CSX said it made progress across “core priorities” in 2025, including:

• “Delivering major infrastructure projects: CSX reopened Baltimore’s Howard Street Tunnel after a [$450 million] major expansion [project] that cleared a long-standing bottleneck on the I-95 corridor and will enable double-stack intermodal service through Baltimore once remaining clearance work is completed in early 2026. The company also rebuilt 60 miles of the Blue Ridge Subdivision after Hurricane Helene flooding and restored full service in under a year. CSX also cited completion of the 75th Street CREATE Flyover in Chicago, which eliminated a key chokepoint in the nation’s busiest rail hub.
• “Improving safety performance: CSX reported its 2025 Federal Railroad Administration personal injury frequency index improved 24% from the prior year to 0.94 and its train accident rate improved 13% to 3.08. The company also highlighted technology deployments such as its Mobile Collision Safety system and expanded use of autonomous electric shuttles at select terminals.
• “Strengthening service through the back half: CSX said network performance improved as early-year disruptions cleared, with fourth-quarter results showing average network velocity up 7% and terminal dwell improved 13% from the prior year, while carload trip plan performance increased 9% and intermodal trip plan performance rose 8%.
• “Advancing growth initiatives: CSX added 85 new or expanded rail-served facilities in 2025 and said it had approximately 600 customer-related development projects in various stages across its network. The railroad also pointed to new and expanded intermodal and interchange agreements designed to broaden market access.”

CSX’s 2025 Annual Report also includes the railroad’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2025, along with other information on safety, service, growth, sustainability, and governance.

Further Reading:

• CSX 4Q, Full-Year ’25: ‘Challenging Year’
• CSX opens the TRANSFLO Petersburg Terminal (part of Class I Briefs)
• CSX Adds 21 Properties to ‘Select Site’ Program
• For CSX, $670MM Power Upgrade Order

UP (Courtesy of UP)

“Congratulations to our North Platte West Shop on 5 years injury free,” UP reported via social media on March 31. “This milestone doesn’t happen by chance—it happens when teams support each other, share knowledge and look out for each other every day.” The team, it noted, “truly leads with care and collaboration.”

The shop is part of the Class I’s Bailey Yard, which was named for former UP President Edd H. Bailey and covers approximately 2,850 acres. Also part of the yard complex is the non-profit Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center, an eight-story building overlooking the railroad staging area that is open to the public year-round.

In December, UP’s Chicago Service Unit celebrated working more than 365 days injury-free.

The railroad closed 2025 with what Chief Safety Officer Rod Doerr recently reported was “the best employee safety record in our history, improving 24% from 2024.” That progress, he said, “reflects years of practical, field-driven change across the railroad.”

Further Reading:

• UP: Practical Teamwork, Real Impact
• Thousands of Union Pacific Employees Weigh in on Safety Culture Assessment

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

The Greenbrier Companies, Inc. and TTX Company March 31 joined the rail-industry-wide celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary by unveiling five custom-painted, U.S. flag-themed boxcars at Greenbrier’s Cleburne, Tex., maintenance facility. The event, Greenbrier noted, “honored the nation’s history, the strength of North American manufacturing and the essential role freight rail has played in shaping the U.S. economy for nearly two centuries.” The boxcar scheme “honors America’s heritage, and the role railroads have played in supporting commerce, connecting communities and strengthening national infrastructure.” In 2027, the U.S. rail industry will mark 200 years.

The Greenbrier Companies

The commemorative boxcars, Greenbrier said, “symbolize the ingenuity, craftsmanship and deep partnership between TTX and Greenbrier in supporting the North American freight rail network.” Government officials, including Federal Railroad Administrator David Fink, Texas State Representative Helen Kerwin (R-58th District) and Cleburne Mayor Pro Tem Blake Jones, joined company, military, community and rail industry leaders, company veterans, employees, and media (among them Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corp. Rail Group Publisher Jonathan Chalon) to mark the occasion and “highlight the enduring importance of American railroading and the nation’s industrial capability.”

Jonathan Chalon photo

“These American flag boxcars commemorate more than 250 years of U.S. history by highlighting the innovation, operational excellence and strategic partnerships that drive North American freight rail today,” said TTX CEO Tom Wells. “We are proud to partner with Greenbrier to deliver solutions that keep commerce moving efficiently and honor the enduring legacy of our industry. We also thank everyone who helped make this project a reality, including Williams Hayward Protective Coatings, Inc., for generously donating the paint.”

“This project demonstrates the strength of Greenbrier’s longstanding partnership with TTX and our shared commitment to supporting the North American economy,” said Greenbrier President and CEO Lorie Tekorius. “The North American integrated rail network is the circulatory system that keeps goods moving efficiently and reliably, and we are proud to continue this important work. Freight railcars can remain in service for up to 50 years, meaning this American‑flag boxcar will travel across America’s rail network for decades to come. It serves as a visual reminder of the vitality of the rails as America moves toward its third century, thanks to the people who keep it running every hour of every day.”

The boxcars, high-cube, 60-foot Plate F units, numbered 636706-636710 and built in Greenbrier’s Sahagun, Mexico plant, enter service this year into the North American interchange fleet, operating in TTX’s pooled service in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. As such, they appropriately sport some lettering in English and Spanish, for example, “CLOSE AND LOCK DOORS BEFORE MOVING CAR,” which in Spanish is “CIERE Y PONGA EL SEGURO EN LAS PUERTES ANTES DE MOVER EL CARO.”

Jonathan Chalon photo

Lake Oswego, Ore.- headquartered Greenbrier designs, builds and markets freight railcars in North America, Europe, Brazil, and the Middle East, and provides freight railcar wheel services, parts, maintenance and retrofitting services in North America. Greenbrier owns a lease fleet of approximately 17,000 railcars that originate primarily from its manufacturing operations, and offers railcar management, regulatory compliance services and leasing services to railroads and other North America railcar owners.

TTX, jointly owned by North American Class I railroads, is a railcar pooling company founded as Trailer Train in 1955 by the Pennsylvania Railroad, Norfolk & Western and Rail-Trailer Corporation. The company’s fleet consists of more than 180,000 railcars. “TTX helps railroads meet their customers’ needs by providing well‐maintained railcars in an efficient, pooled environment, investing $6 billion in additional railcars over the past 10 years alone,” the company notes. “TTX has a complete engineering and design team to care for its large and varied fleet with maintenance operations in terminals across the network. TTX also invests in and operates sophisticated industry technology solutions. These solutions improve the quality and timeliness of financial and operating information for managing its business and are shared with its owners to help them manage theirs. TTX also is a recognized innovator in the technical design and engineering of railcar components.”

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