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NYMTA

The New York MTA recently announced that the NYCT subway system has surpassed 4.5 million rides for two consecutive days last week, marking a post-pandemic ridership record. The MTA also hit three billion taps on its contactless fare payment system.

On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 4.52 million customers rode the subway and on Thursday, Oct.23, that figure was 4.55 million riders. The previous record was set during the holiday shopping season on Dec. 12, 2024, which saw 4.53 million subway customers. This comes as the MTA hit three billion taps on its contactless fare payment system. The three billionth tapper was identified as Russell Levy of the Upper East Side who tapped into the subway system at the 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center BDFM station just after 12:00 p.m. This milestone, the agency says, follows the Authority’s recent completion of installing 980 OMNY card vending machines across all 472 subway stations in September, as it prepares to phase out the MetroCard. To date, 87% of all subway and bus trips are paid using the Tap and Ride technology.

“Three billion taps is undeniable proof that New Yorkers are ready for a new era of fare payment. Tap and Ride, like the MetroCard did 30 years ago, opens the door to new discounts and promotions that will strengthen transit affordability—no speed arithmetic required,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber.

In March, the Authority announced the last day of MetroCard sales will be Dec. 31, 2025, with the acceptance of MetroCards ending in mid-2026. As the MTA moves forward to fully transition, it says it continues to grow its robust OMNY retail network currently at 2,700 locations—more than double the MetroCard partnering locations. While the Tap and Ride payment system doesn’t require an OMNY card and allows riders to pay fares directly with digital wallets and contactless bank cards, customers will find it twice as easy to purchase or reload an OMNY card, the agency noted.

Customers with questions about the Tap and Ride payment system can call 511 or the OMNY Call Center at 877-789-6669, chat with a live agent in the MTA app, or visit any of the 16 24/7 staffed Customer Service Centers (CSCs), which will expand to 14 more locations by the end of the year as announced last week.

By eliminating the sale of MetroCard and fully transitioning to one fare collection method, the MTA says it expects to save at least $20 million annually in costs related to MetroCard production and distribution; vending machine repairs; and cash collection and handling. “Moving to a contactless payment also unlocks potential for new customer-friendly promotions and fare discounts,” the agency said.

Denver RTD (Denver RTD)

Denver RTD’s latest monthly ridership report reflects a 4.6% year-over-year increase in boardings as the agency says it is preparing to roll out new customer-support resources.

As commuting patterns evolve post-pandemic, RTD says it is working to “rebuild ridership, improve reliability, and enhance the customer experience across its entire system.” The agency’s recent progress, and its plans to roll out new digital tools and customer-focused initiatives, “show how RTD is adapting to meet the needs of its customers—both now and in the future,” the agency noted.

Commuting trends and return-to-office requirements

Return-to-office numbers in the Denver metro area, which accounted for a significant percentage of RTD’s ridership prior to March 2020, remain below pre-pandemic levels. According to the Downtown Denver Partnership (DDP)’s September 2025 High Frequency Economic Update, the weekday return-to-office rate was 64%, a number that is seven percentage points higher than the previous year. DDP’s report highlights the fact that, while the number has been gradually increasing over the past few years, approximately 35,000 fewer employees are working downtown each weekday when compared with 2019.

Other parts of the metro area are seeing similar return-to-office rates. Denver South, an organization of community and business leaders along the I-25 corridor that includes the Denver Tech Center, conducts an annual survey to better understand commuting trends and behaviors. Their most recent commuter survey found that 35% of respondents work full-time at a workspace in Denver South, with the remaining approximately two-thirds have a mix of in-office and remote days. That same survey also found that 33% of respondents’ employers either fully or partially subsidize an RTD transit pass for their workforce.

“Transit service delivery is RTD’s core business, and due to a myriad of factors, that service delivery model has had to adjust,” said Debra A. Johnson, RTD General Manager and CEO. “Large numbers of commuters boarding buses and trains during morning and evening peak service times are not at the levels previously seen by the agency. Instead, RTD is seeing transit utilization spread more throughout the day, late in the evening, and on weekends.”

Transit utilization trends and ridership increases

Between January and August of this year, RTD had more than 42 million boardings across its entire system. The agency uses boardings—often referred to as ridership—as one of many metrics to gauge the agency’s success. Ridership is an output metric that is the result of multiple factors, including on-time performance, service availability, perceptions of personal safety and security, and planned and unplanned maintenance projects. RTD also recognizes that ridership is greatly impacted by economic conditions, seasonal demands, remote work trends, and other external events happening across the agency’s 2,345-square-mile service area.

“Transit utilization is the result of several different efforts, and it requires a laser-like focus on enhancing and improving the customer experience. RTD’s staff has been doubling down on efforts that are within the agency’s control that will create and bolster a welcoming transit environment,” Johnson said.

In August 2025, systemwide ridership was 5.6 million, an increase of 4.6% from August 2024. August’s numbers, which are the most recent numbers available, also saw nearly 475,000 more boardings than the previous month.

(Denver RTD)

This year, RTD has also been heavily promoting its A Line, the commuter rail line that connects downtown Denver to Denver International Airport, and those marketing efforts appear to be paying off. At approximately 650,000 boardings in August 2025, the A Line saw its second highest monthly ridership during the past five years. August’s total number of boardings was within 5,000 of the A Line’s record monthly total from August 2023, when the state funded the Zero Fare for Better Air initiative that allowed all customers to use RTD’s services at no cost.

In August 2025, the N Line experienced its highest number of monthly boardings since the north metro line first opened for service in September 2020. Ridership on the E and H lines more than doubled over the previous August, a fact that RTD says is the result of the completion of months of maintenance work that necessitated temporary speed restrictions. Bus boardings also increased by approximately 230,000 month-over-month between July and August 2025, accounting for a total of nearly 3.6 million in the report.

These gains in ridership across the system and different modes mirror customer survey data gathered earlier this year that indicated “using public transit to get to work” was the No. 1 reason people took RTD. The survey of customers aboard buses and trains saw a 7% year-over-year increase in customers indicating that work was their reason.

High-volume events and activity centers

The same customer survey found that approximately one-third of respondents use RTD’s services for “leisure, social, or recreation.” Using that feedback, RTD is broadening its focus beyond traditional commuter services that support in-office schedules to also include access to transit-adjacent event venues and activity centers. The agency is enhancing its base bus and rail services to strengthen connections to major sporting venues, concerts, festivals, parades, and other high-volume events happening across the Denver metro area.

The agency closely monitors several metro area calendars to flag events taking place near bus stops and rail stations that have a potential to generate high transit use. RTD also coordinates its efforts with Visit Denver to discuss upcoming conferences and large-scale events. The information and schedules provide valuable insights for developing operational plans and determining staffing levels to support transit utilization. The agency’s focus is to optimize its existing bus and rail services to support peaks in demand without disrupting base service across its entire system.

(Denver RTD)

During the 2024-2025 Denver Broncos season, RTD saw nearly 27,000 light rail boardings at the stadium’s platform before and after every home game. The agency recorded nearly 38,000 boardings during the Broncos vs. Raiders home game in October 2024. RTD says the 2025-2026 NFL season is seeing a similar trend in customers taking buses and trains to access Broncos home games.

In November, RTD says it will launch a high-volume events website to provide updates, information, and feedback opportunities. The online resource will include several different service maps showing all bus routes and rail lines that connect to transit-adjacent venues. The website will also provide trip planning and know-before-you-go information, as well as event calendars for the Denver metro area. In launching the website, the agency is hoping customers, event organizers, and the public will use the online feedback tool to share feedback and suggestions for improving event service.

Pass programs support ridership increases

Despite a universal shift in working environments, RTD’s 35-year-old EcoPass program, which offers unlimited rides on RTD’s fixed-route bus and rail services, is seeing participation approach 75% of pre-pandemic level. Nearly 600 metro area employers, ranging in size from small, home-based businesses to large companies with thousands of employees, are currently offering the transit pass as a perk. The prepaid EcoPass allows customers whose employers participate in the program to use the pass when traveling anywhere throughout the agency’s service district.

The Neighborhood EcoPass program, RTD’s transit pass for residents in a neighborhood or community, is seeing its highest participation since the program’s launch in 1991. The program currently has more than 70 neighborhoods participating, which is the highest number in RTD’s history. Seven higher education institutions also participate in RTD’s CollegePass program, including the University of Colorado, University of Denver, and Colorado School of Mines. Several other metro area colleges and universities take advantage of a similar, opt-in SemesterPass program, including Regis University and institutions at the Auraria Campus.

Service reliability and on-time performance

Reliability, the agency says, remains a cornerstone of RTD’s Strategic Plan, which focuses the agency’s efforts on “supporting reliable transit services, reinforcing personal safety, and enhancing the customer experience.” Several tactics outlined in the 2025-2026 annual agency performance scorecard directly support the delivery of service and emphasize improvements to on-time performance, trips operated, and service perceptions.

On-time performance is a measurement of how frequently buses and trains arrive at stop or stations according to the posted schedule, with “on-time” being defined as a vehicle arriving no more than one minute early or five minutes late. On-time performance can be affected by several factors, including maintenance work, inclement weather, mechanical issues, accidents, customer boarding times, and traffic conditions that impact bus service.

(Denver RTD)

RTD’s on-time performance for light rail service exceeded 90% in July 2025, as compared with less than 60% in August 2024, and that number has continued to incrementally improve. Additionally, 97.9% of all light rail trips were operated as scheduled that month. Completing both the Coping Panels Project and the first phase of the Downtown Rail Reconstruction Project, along with expedited operator hiring, positively affected service reliability for light rail customers.

On-time performance for commuter rail, which includes the A Line to the airport, has averaged more than 96% throughout 2025, with more than 98% of all trips operated as scheduled. On-time performance for bus remained above 83% between January and July 2025, a metric that is heavily impacted by traffic congestion, road construction, and lack of traffic signal prioritization for all buses.

“Service reliability is addressed in every decision staff proposes and implements,” said Senior Manager of Service Development Jessie Carter. “The team continually assesses input from customers, operators, and performance reports to ensure routes are refined and schedules are improved, all with a goal of enhancing on-time performance. The team is keenly aware that customers rely on RTD to make important connections in their daily lives, so continual improvement and refinement is critically important.”

To support on-time performance, such as during this year’s Downtown Rail Reconstruction Project, RTD’s service planning team preemptively analyzed various scenarios for delivering light rail services ahead of the Aug. 31 service changes. The goal was to deliver on-time performance and minimize customer wait times at rail platforms. Rerouting the D Line to Denver Union Station was determined to provide the most reliable on-time service for customers of the several different scenarios that were evaluated.

The agency is currently collecting customer feedback through Oct. 30 ahead of its proposed January 2026 service changes. If approved by RTD’s Board of Directors, the proposed changes will further improve the agency’s service reliability.

Personal safety and security improvements

Over the past 18 months, several coordinated efforts have also been implemented to enhance the personal safety and security of RTD’s employees and customers. The multi-faceted approach to create a welcoming transit environment, which has been led by RTD’s Transit Police Department (RTD-PD), has resulted in an approximately 25% monthly reduction in security-related calls throughout 2025. This includes everything from customer-reported concerns to RTD-PD officer observations. For more than 14 consecutive months, the agency has also seen double-digit reductions in customer reports of illicit drug activity across the system, with last month experiencing a nearly 30% year-over-year decrease in total reports.

“Whether a customer is waiting for a connection or traveling on a bus or train, we are focused on providing a welcoming transit environment,” said Steve Martingano, RTD’s Chief of Police and Emergency Management. “The personal safety and security of all customers and agency employees is supported by a comprehensive and coordinated effort. We know that a lot of misperceptions exist in the metro area related to personal safety and security. While we recognize that there are opportunities for improvement, the overwhelming majority of customers complete their trips without any issues or concerns.”

In August 2025, RTD received one security-related call for service for every 2,069 boardings. Calls for service can include everything from reports of an unattended bag and graffiti to a fight or theft. Earlier this year, the agency launched a security-related metrics webpage to provide a transparent look at the agency’s data related to personal safety and security, including all calls that are reported by Transit Police officers, operators, customers, and the public.

(Denver RTD)

Since May 2024, RTD has also increased monthly proof-of-payment checks on light rail vehicles by more than 900%, from approximately 5,700 individual checks to 60,000 last month alone. Across the entire rail system, RTD conducted more than 460,000 proof-of-payment checks in September 2025. The effort puts RTD-PD officers and contracted security personnel directly in contact with customers and increases their visibility to address other issues that may be present.

Near-term customer experience tactics

Simplifying the transit experience and reducing barriers for customers are top priorities for RTD, said the agency, which next month will introduce a long-awaited tap-to-pay program branded as Tap-n-Ride. The easy-to-use payment method will allow customers to tap a contactless credit or debit card—either a physical card or in a mobile wallet—on bus and rail validators. The new fare payment option will allow customers to quickly and efficiently purchase fare without the need to use a ticket vending machine, pay cash on the vehicle, download the agency’s mobile application, or load value on a MyRide card. Work to introduce Tap-n-Ride has been underway for more than a year.

Also, next month, RTD will begin implementing a multi-faceted customer experience action plan. The plan includes more than 50 projects and tactics that focus on enhancing customer amenities, improving communications, increasing awareness, and bolstering engagement and feedback. All tactics included in the plan have a near-term deadline of June 2026 and were developed to increase transit utilization. RTD will make the plan publicly available when it launches in November.

In mid-2026, RTD will also roll out a single mobile application that combines existing applications, such as Next Ride, MyRide, and Transit Watch, into one single customer-facing app. The new app, which will be branded as Next Ride, will be available for download in app stores and will simplify trip planning, fare purchasing, and the reporting of personal safety and security concerns.

(Denver RTD) Next steps

Resilience is the ability to recover from or adjust to challenges and change. Over its 56-year history, RTD says it has demonstrated resilience by “expanding its system during economic downturns, maintaining service during the pandemic, and rebuilding aging infrastructure.” Now, as commuting patterns change course and new technologies emerge, the agency is once again adapting. “Through strategic investments in service reliability, maintenance work, safety initiatives, and customer experience, RTD remains focused on its mission to make lives better through connections,” the agency said.

The post Transit Briefs: NYMTA, Denver RTD appeared first on Railway Age.

BNSF

“BNSF operating teams are engaged in generating improved service performance across our network,” the Class I railroad told customers in an Oct. 24 online message. “Car velocity remains consistent with the prior week but is lower than the September average. While terminal dwell is higher than the average from last month, it has not changed significantly from the previous week and remains at record-low levels, with a year-to-date measurement 15% lower through September compared to the same period last year. Our local service compliance measure is trending close to 90%.”

As reported on Oct. 23, Union Pacific (UP) experienced a derailment on their Mojave Subdivision in California, where BNSF operates between Bakersfield and Mojave. “The first main track has been returned to service overnight, while the second main track remains out of service as restoration efforts continue. An estimated time for reopening the second main track has not yet been determined. Customers may experience delays on shipments moving through the affected area until full service is restored and traffic has normalized,” BNSF said.

CPKC

Innovators Solange de Blois, P.Eng; Chathula A.; Gary Andrusiek; and Tom Charlton are the powerhouse team behind CPKC’s Optical AEI, the Class I’s next-generation wayside detector.

According to CPKC, Optical AIE uses cameras and software to automatically read and track every railcar in real time. “Paired with sensors, this system alerts us when this breakthrough technology spots cars with hot bearings and wheels, so our team can make repairs and keep trains moving safely,” the Class I wrote in a LinkedIn post.

“Catch problems early. Inspect trains faster. Increase safety. That’s innovation on track.”

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

Marmon Rail on Oct. 27 reported that Laurie Stiles has been elevated to President of Railserve Inc., leading the businesses of Atlanta-Ga.-based Railserve, an in-plant switching and associated services provider, and two other Marmon Rail companies: Frankfort, Ind.-based Ameritrack Rail, a full-service rail contractor providing engineering and design services, new track construction, and existing track maintenance, and Longview, Tex.-based Powerhouse, a locomotive repair, air brake component repair, and maintenance services company.

Stiles’ responsibilities will include developing, refining, and driving growth strategies within each business while providing leadership to more than 1,200 employees of the organization, according to Marmon Rail, which is part of Marmon Holdings, a Berkshire Hathaway company, and offers a portfolio of services across North America that also includes mobile repair, tank car leasing and manufacturing, and railcar movers.

Stiles joined Marmon Rail in 2021 and previously held the roles of Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives for Marmon Railyard and Repair Services, and Vice President, Sales and Marketing for Marmon On-Site Services. She began her career in the oil and gas industry working in railcar fleet management at Norcal Gas and Shell Canada. In 2000, she joined Targa Resources, where she spent 20 years in progressively senior leadership roles across logistics and supply, culminating as Senior Director of NGL Commercial Transportation. Stiles holds a Master of Business Administration in international business from the University of St. Thomas (Texas) and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Calgary.

“Since joining Marmon, Laurie has been instrumental in driving cross-business initiatives, programs, and processes that have facilitated growth and stability with key customers,” Marmon Railyard and Repair Services Group President Chris Hagge said. “Her deep industry experience and leadership make her the ideal choice to lead this organization into its next chapter.”

“I’m honored to lead Railserve, Ameritrack, and Powerhouse and continue building on each company’s legacy of safety, service excellence, and innovation,” Stiles said.

Further Reading:

• New From Marmon Rail: ProTecht Mobile Autonomous Tank Car Cleaning
• Ensuring Tank Car Safety Through Performance-Based NDT

The post Marmon Rail Tabs Stiles as President, Railserve appeared first on Railway Age.

Michigan-based Class II Lake State Railway Company (LSRC), Railway Age’s 2021 Regional of the Year and 2018 Short Line of the Year, celebrates the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Also, the SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) announces that the SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority (JRA) will become a fully independent entity.

LSRC

LSRC recently unveiled via social media LSRC SD70M 1776 with a special historical-based paint scheme in red, white and blue celebrating American independence. It was designed by second-generation LSRC railroader Travis Vongrey, a former conductor, engineer and yardmaster and now a supervisor of yard operations. Vongrey also designed a locomotive for the railroad that rolled out earlier this year in a heritage scheme inspired by the Pere Marquette Railway, one of LSRC’s antecedents (see photograph below).

(Photograph Courtesy of LSRC)

LSRC was established in 1992 and operates a 373-mile rail network spanning the eastern corridor of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. The company, backed by Antin Infrastructure Partners since 2022, provides freight transportation, railcar storage, and transloading services, and transports such commodities as grain, fertilizer, coal, chemicals, aggregates, cement, steel, and scrap metal. 

SEDA-COG (Courtesy of SEDA-COG)

The SEDA-COG JRA will become a fully independent entity effective Jan. 1, 2026, according to SEDA-COG, a community and economic development agency in Lewisburg, Pa., and a Local Development District for 11 central Pennsylvania counties.

SEDA-COG created the JRA in June 1983, in direct response to Conrail’s abandonment of several unprofitable rail lines in Central Pennsylvania, the Local Development District reported Oct. 23. “Recognizing the critical need to maintain freight rail service in the region, SEDA-COG took action by forming the SEDA-COG JRA, an official municipal authority, to purchase and operate those lines,” it said. “This move preserved freight service in the region and established the JRA as a nationally recognized public-private partnership.”

The JRA has grown from two lines serving freight shippers along 80 miles of track, to today’s six lines serving freight shippers along 200 miles of track. The six railroads, in cooperation with strategic partner and operator North Shore Railroad, support more than 100 customers and 12,600 jobs in the region.

The JRA will continue its mission “to preserve and foster rail service in Central Pennsylvania and to further economic development through retention, improvement and expansion of the infrastructure and the rail service it supports,” according to SEDA-COG.

SEDA-COG reported that it will have no formal role in the JRA’s operations after the transition but noted that “existing relationships with freight shippers and local partners will remain unchanged.” Any updates to contact information or administrative details will be provided directly by the JRA later this year, it added.

The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership and Focus Central PA are two other initiatives that began under SEDA-COG and later became independent.

Separately, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in December 2024 awarded the JRA $2 million to rehabilitate seven bridges and one culvert on the Juniata Valley Railroad and Nittany Bald Eagle Railroad.

The post Small-Road Briefs: LSRC, SEDA-COG JRA appeared first on Railway Age.

The Holden-Proefrock Award is named in honor of Roy Holden, a former AAR employee and an innovator in tank car design, damage assessment, and safety, as well as Art Proefrock, a former Hulcher Emergency Services employee who pioneered hazardous materials transportation emergency response, according to the Association.

Over McNealy’s four-decade-long career, he has risen from the diesel shop to senior leadership at Kansas City Southern Railway (now Canadian Pacific Kansas City, following KCS’ 2023 merger with Canadian Pacific), and his tenure “has been characterized by a drive for innovation, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to safety,” AAR said.

McNealy’s accomplishments include “enhancing risk assessment frameworks to hazmat shipments and leveraging GIS mapping to strengthen emergency preparedness and response,” AAR reported. Additionally, he has helped shape industry standards through his work with the AAR Tank Car Committee, Hazardous Materials Committee, and TRANSCAER, leveraging his experience at KCS.

McNealy played “a pivotal role in enhancing first responder training in both the U.S. and Mexico,” AAR said, and this commitment “is evident in his long-standing partnership with the Louisiana State Police Hazmat Team and his instrumental role in developing the Joint Emergency Services Training Center in Zachary, La.” McNealy also contributed to the Mississippi Fire Academy and the Security and Emergency Response Training Center in Pueblo, Colo., donating equipment and expertise to elevate national preparedness.

The post McNealy Earns 2025 Holden-Proefrock Award appeared first on Railway Age.

Metro Transit The map shows the route of the METRO Green Line Extension from SouthWest Station in Eden Prairie to Target Field Station in Minneapolis, where the line will continue east as the METRO Green Line and also connect to the METRO Blue Line and local bus routes. (Map Courtesy of the Met Council)

The first light rail trains are now rolling on the METRO Green Line Extension, marking a milestone for the project that has already catalyzed $3.1 billion in new development across five Twin Cities communities, according to Metro Transit, which operates under the Metropolitan Council to provide an integrated network of buses, light rail and microtransit.

Civil construction on the 14.5-mile extension connecting Target Field in downtown Minneapolis to Eden Prairie is 95% complete, Metro Transit reported Oct. 23, and has entered the track, signal, and systems testing phase. Testing will continue through 2026, with service expected to begin in 2027.

The extension will serve 16 stations across Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka, and Eden Prairie, connecting the southwest metro to the region’s existing light rail network (see map, top).

According to Metro Transit, the corridor is experiencing unprecedented growth, with $3.1 billion in housing, retail, and entertainment projects already built, under construction, or permitted, and another $700 million in new investment being planned by developers.

“Projects like the METRO Green Line Extension are smart investments in our region’s future,” Met Council Interim Chair Deb Barber said. “They connect homes to businesses, schools to hospitals, and communities to opportunities—and those connections attract even more investment. The numbers tell the story: Land near METRO transit projects represents just 2% of taxable property in the region yet generates 20% of our property tax revenue.”

“Light rail projects like the Green Line Extension are essential to our region and state’s economic growth and environmental resiliency,” added Hennepin County Commissioner Marion Greene. “They will connect generations of people and businesses to opportunities to build wealth and stability. The burden of car ownership is becoming more costly for residents and our environment. Light rail is a reliable, affordable, and environmentally sound transportation option that provides an undeniable return on investment. Generational investments like the Green Line Extension will pay dividends for decades to come, fueling our regional economy, reducing congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, and bolstering our state for the future.”

Metro Transit reported that each city along the corridor is experiencing significant development spurred by the transit investment:   

• Eden Prairie – $560 million in new development.

• 1,000 new multi-family units, including 140 affordable units. 
• $316 million in commercial development. 
• $36 million in industrial projects. 

 • Minnetonka – More than $373 million in new development. 

• 1,700 new multi-family housing units, including 530 affordable units.  
• $92 million in commercial development. 
• $14 million in industrial investment. 

• Hopkins – More than $329 million in new development. 

• 1,300 new multi-family housing units, including 260 affordable units.
• $27 million in commercial development. 
• $9 million in industrial investment. 

 • St. Louis Park – More than $497 million in new development. 

• 1,500 new multi-family housing units, including 290 affordable units. 
• $48 million in commercial development. 
• $24 million in industrial investment. 
• $170 million in public and institutional projects. 

 • Minneapolis – $1.37 billion in new development.

• Over 3,800 new multi-family housing units, including 660 affordable units. 
• $477 million in commercial development. 
• $28 million in industrial development .

“The Green Line Extension caps a transformative year for the region’s METRO system,” Metro Transit reported. “In 2025, the METRO Gold Line launched in the east metro, connecting St. Paul to Woodbury, and the METRO B Line began serving the corridor between South Minneapolis and Downtown St. Paul. Before year’s end, the METRO E Line will launch, linking the University of Minnesota to Edina.”

Sound Transit (Courtesy of Sound Transit) (Courtesy of Sound Transit)

The Federal Way Link Extension is in the home stretch, Sound Transit reported Oct. 24. Simulated service for the light rail project is under way south of Angle Lake to the Federal Way Downtown Station, stopping at Kent Des Moines and Star Lake stations along the way. This testing will ensure that stations, tracks, utilities, escalators, elevators, systems, and vehicles all work together as planned prior to opening day on Dec. 6.

The 7.8-mile project extends Sound Transit’s regional light rail system via mostly elevated tracks between SeaTac and Federal Way. It includes three new stations in Kent Des Moines near Highline College, Star Lake, and Downtown Federal Way. These stations will connect to other regional transit services like ST Express, King County Metro, and Pierce Transit. By design, the stations will support transfers between Link light rail and buses.

After the 1 Line extension Federal Way opens and after the World Cup in 2026, ST Express bus service will change to incorporate the new light rail stations.

Metrolinx Finch West LRT vehicle during a revenue service demonstration along Finch Avenue West. (Caption and Photograph Courtesy of the Ontario Government)

The Revenue Service Demonstration (RSD) for the Finch West Light Rail Transit (LRT) has finished, the Ontario government reported Oct. 23. With the final 30-day “dry run” complete, it said, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will assume full operational control of the line no later than Nov. 3, 2025, with an opening date to be determined by the TTC as it trains staff and prepares to launch the new light rail service for the public.

The line, also known as Line 6 Finch West, includes two stations and 16 stops and will move more than 51,000 riders each weekday, with 12 million annual trips expected by 2031. It runs on a dedicated, primarily street-level track, providing transit to communities along Finch Avenue West from Finch West Station—an interchange with TTC Line 1—and across the Greater Toronto Area to Humber Polytechnic’s North Campus (see map below). Major construction, including all stations and stops for the Finch West LRT, wrapped up in fall 2024.

(Courtesy of Metrolinx)

Once open to the public, Line 6 Finch West will offer connections to local and regional transit, including TTC buses, GO Transit, MiWay, York Region Transit and Brampton Züm.

“We are excited that the Finch West LRT’s revenue service demonstration (RSD) has successfully passed,” Metrolinx President and CEO Michael Lindsay said. “This is a significant milestone for the project, which brings it closer to an opening date that will benefit the 51,000 daily riders expected to use the line. The TTC is to define a first day of service in the next few days.”

The Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit (ECLRT) is currently undergoing its own RSD, according to the government, noting that when that RSD is complete, the ECLRT will also be turned over to the TTC in preparation for the launch of passenger service.

“In response to the delays surrounding the construction of the ECLRT, which began construction under the previous government in 2011, the current government has made a number of changes to cut red tape, speed up and bring predictability to the construction of transit projects, including the Finch West LRT, which began construction in 2019,” the Ontario government reported. “These changes, which are helping the government deliver the largest expansion of public transit in North America, include: using simpler, proven signal and power systems from other LRT projects to reduce design complexity and technical risk, making delivery, testing and commissioning smoother; working collaboratively with building partners to identify critical funding for testing and commissioning and ensuring claims and legal barriers do not impact this process; and onboarding the maintenance provider earlier in the process to ensure the fleet and line are ready for service sooner.”

The government also reported that on Nov. 16, 2025, it will open the Mount Dennis GO and UP Station, connecting riders to GO Transit’s Kitchener Line and UP Express. In addition, Eglinton West Station will also open its fare-free underground pathway under Eglinton Avenue West, which will reduce congestion at the intersection of Eglinton Avenue West and Allen Road and help pedestrians safely navigate the intersection, the government noted. The ECLRT stations at Mount Dennis and Eglinton West will open to the public along with the rest of the line at a later date, at which point Eglinton West Station will be renamed Cedarvale Station, according to the government.

Metrolink (Courtesy of Metrolink)

Metrolink has expanded its Wireless Crossing Nearside Station Stop (WCNSS) technology to Los Angeles County with implementation this month at two crossings near the Baldwin Park Station, the regional passenger rail provider reported Oct. 23. The new “smart” systems, designed to improve surface traffic flow and safety for pedestrians and drivers near Metrolink stations, went live at rail crossings on either side of the station: Pacific Avenue to the west and Ramona Boulevard to the east.

“Previously, safety gates at the Pacific Avenue crossing would activate more than once when westbound Metrolink San Bernardino Line trains traversed the area, adding to local traffic congestion,” Metrolink said. “Eastbound trains had a similar effect at Ramona Boulevard. The new WCNSS systems address this issue by communicating in real time with Metrolink’s Positive Train Control (PTC) network. They allow the crossing gates to remain idle while trains are approaching or stopped at the station and activate only when they are ready to resume their routes. This reduces delays, easing frustration and enhancing safety for not only train passengers and crews, but also the surrounding community.”

Metrolink first introduced WCNSS technology at an active crossing at Del Obispo Street in Orange County’s San Juan Capistrano in June 2024. In the first year of operation, nearby drivers and pedestrians have been “spared an estimated 1,584 activations and 36 hours of delays,” according to the regional passenger rail operator.

Metrolink has been expanding WCNSS to new locations throughout its 545-mile system. The Pacific Avenue and Ramona Boulevard crossings are the fifth and sixth locations to go live and mark the first appearance of WCNSS in Los Angeles County. So far in 2025, this technology has also been installed at: Juniper Avenue in Fontana (February 2025, San Bernardino County); Columbia Avenue in Riverside (June 2025, Riverside County); and Moorpark Avenue in Moorpark (June 2025, Ventura County).

WCNSS was originally developed for seven rail crossings on Metrolink’s Arrow system, which in 2022 launched three DMUs (Diesel Multiple Units) into service between San Bernardino and Redlands, Calif. Metrolink said it then explored implementing WCNSS at active crossings, identifying priority locations in each county. In total, 52 crossings have been marked for WCNSS upgrades, with work at Sierra Avenue in Fontana expected to be completed during the first half of 2026. The agency said it continues to pursue funding to integrate WCNSS at the remaining sites.

Work near the Baldwin Park Station was supported by a combination of sources, including a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program grant awarded by the Federal Railroad Administration in 2018.  

“Our investment in ‘smart’ technologies demonstrates how Metrolink is leveraging innovation to shape the future of rail travel in Southern California,” City of Pomona Mayor and Metrolink Board Director Tim Sandoval said. “WCNSS is producing measurable wins for customers and community members, and the results are drawing national attention.”

Further Reading:

• Metrolink to Pilot Track Intrusion Detection
• For Metrolink, More ‘Smart Crossing’ Tech Installations

SEPTA (Courtesy of SEPTA)

The SEPTA Board on Oct. 23 voted to amend the FY26 Capital Budget and FY26 Program of Projects by transferring $394 million of federal, state, and local Capital funds to the Operating Budget.

“PennDOT approved the emergency request last month to help SEPTA avoid service cuts for the next two years,” reported the transit agency. “However, transferring capital funds to support operations requires capital project offsets. As a result, SEPTA will defer the purchase of new buses, the Bristol Regional Rail Station accessibility project, and the construction of a new building at the Frazer Railroad Facility.”

Under this amendment, SEPTA will postpone:

• The purchase of 247 new hybrid diesel-electric buses by three years ($256 million).
• The project designed to bring Bristol Station on the Trenton Line into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act ($46 million).
• The final phase of an expansion to the Frazer Railroad Facility ($39 million).
• The purchase of hydrogen and electric-powered buses for SEPTA’s zero-emission pilot program ($41 million).
• The retrofitting of existing hybrid buses to run exclusively on electric power ($11 million).

SEPTA Map (Courtesy of SEPTA)

These deferred initiatives are on top of the 44 planned infrastructure projects that SEPTA had previously paused to cut $1.8 billion to address a gap between the costs of the work and available funding in the original FY26 Capital Budget, according to the transit agency.

The Capital funds are expected to be available for Operating relief in January 2026, SEPTA said.

“The Board supports these project deferrals because they do not compromise safety by stopping crucial repairs,” SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. said. “We also do not want to disrupt projects that are already under way, including the replacement of the Market-Frankford Line [L] and Trolley cars.”

“Using capital funds for operations keeps us moving today, but it pushes those critical investments further down the road,” SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer said. “We stand ready to continue working with leaders in Harrisburg to develop a long-term solution that addresses both our operating needs and the capital investment so critical to our future.”

Further Reading:

• NTSB Recommends Sidelining SEPTA Silverliner IVs
• SEPTA’s Faustian Bargain

STM (Courtesy of STM)

The Canadian Press on Oct. 23 reported that STM, Montreal’s public transit agency, “has asked the provincial government to appoint a mediator to help settle a labour dispute with bus and metro drivers, who are set to join maintenance workers and walk off the job next month.”

According to the national news agency, some 4,500 transit workers “announced they intend to strike on Nov. 1, 15 and 16,” and “about 2,400 maintenance employees who have gone on strike twice since June have announced labour action for most of November.”

STM General Director Marie-Claude Léonard told the media in Montreal that “We’re going to do everything we can to avoid this strike. We’re convinced that the presence of a mediator will get us closer to reaching an agreement.”

The Canadian Press said that the transit agency and maintenance workers have been in mediation since Oct. 7, “but that didn’t stop the union from announcing a third strike, this time from Halloween night until Nov. 28. The members say they will refuse to work overtime and limit bus and metro service outside rush hours, but the full details of the strike have yet to be announced.”

Transit travel was disrupted by maintenance worker strikes in June (nine days) and in late September through early October (two weeks), according to The Canadian Press, which said the transit network logged approximately 1 million trips per day last year.  

“Léonard said talks are stalled because the agency is not willing to make cuts to essential services that she said are inevitable if they were to meet the maintenance union’s salary demands,” the national news agency reported. “‘Cutting services is not an option,’ she said. ‘Right now, the union’s demands at the table would require us to cut 10 per cent of bus service, which is unacceptable.’”

According to The Canadian Press, STM spokesperson Katherine Roux-Groleau “said they contacted Quebec’s labour minister to ask for a mediator as soon as they got word the bus and metro drivers were planning to walk off the job. Their collective agreement expired in January.”

Roux-Groleau said that STM is “still undergoing a negotiation blitz at the moment with the drivers,” according to The Canadian Press. “Several meetings are currently booked, and as soon as the mediator is appointed, (they’ll) be added to those meetings,” she noted.

According to the national news agency report, Frédéric Therrien, who heads the bus and metro drivers union, “said his team is willing to meet with a mediator. The workers decided to strike after more than 50 negotiation sessions with the transit agency, he added.”

The transit agency “needs to cut $100 million over the next three years” and “[a]s a result, the agency must abolish 300 positions,” according to Léonard, The Canadian Press reported.

STM, the news agency said, “decried [in March] a roughly $258-million reduction in provincial funding over three years for the upkeep of the metro system, far from the $585 million it had asked for.”

The post Transit Briefs: Metro Transit, Sound Transit, Metrolinx, Metrolink, SEPTA, STM appeared first on Railway Age.

CN

In CN’s intermodal yards, car mechanics often work close to cranes, sometimes in tight spaces. To reduce risks, the Class I developed the Proximity LifeSaver Device, a wearable system that alerts both mechanics and crane operators in real time when someone is too lose to a danger zone.

The Proximity LifeSaver Devie, which was first tested at CN’s Taschereau Yard in Montreal in 2024 and developed with input from the Class I’s yard teams from day one, is set for broader roll-out across CN.

“Behind this innovation is something stronger: teamwork. Together, our railroaders are building smarter, safer ways to work, because every decision begins with looking out for each other,” CN said in a LinkedIn post.

CPKC

Last week at the Canadian Consulting Engineering Awards in Toronto, the CPKC Geotechnical Engineering team took home two awards celebrating the group’s “innovative work to reduce risk and increase operational safety across the network.”

Tom Bourgonje, Vice President Engineering, and Mehwish Rahman, Director Geotechnical Engineering, accepted the Innovation and Technology Award and the Schreyer Award on behalf of the team. 

“We were pleasantly surprised by the second award, the Schreyer Award, which is the highest honor in Engineering in Canada,” said Mehwish.

(CPKC)

These awards, the Class I says, recognize CPKC’s work with Tetra Tech in creating an advanced waterbody monitoring system that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and remote sensing technique (Synthetic Aperture Radar – SAR) through satellite data collection to detect water-related hazards along the CPKC’s rail network.

The system offers near real-time visibility across CPKC’s network, scanning more than 1.2 million waterbodies along more than 12,600 miles in images. AI then analyzes these images against pre-determined business rules and sends alerts for different categories of potential water-related hazards, such as high water/flooding, beaver dams and increasing proximity of water to the tracks that could impact railway operations and safety.

This information, CPKC says, helps keep people and trains safe, by catching potential hazards and prioritizing work before issues develop.

“This approach sets a new standard for smart infrastructure. The system operates without requiring physical equipment and, as the AI continues to monitor our network, it gets smarter as it learns from real-life feedback,” the Class I noted.

“Congratulations to Tom and the Geotechnical Engineering team for these well-deserved awards. Your award-winning work is another example of how CPKC is always innovating to help keep our network safe.”

In related news, CPKC leaders from Sales & Marketing and Network & Capacity Management hosted short line and transload stakeholders from across the Class I’s network in Kansas City last week at the Business Development and Transload Conference.

This annual event offers a forum for Sales & Marketing to provide market updates while building relationships through valuable in-person sessions with business stakeholders, CPKC noted.

The agenda included a welcome from Coby Bullard, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing Merchandise, Energy and Business Development, and market updates from the ECP, Bulk and Intermodal teams. Additional presenters profiled and discussed CPKC’s Site Ready industrial development program, Mexico markets and nearshoring, as well as an economic update.

(CPKC)

“This year’s record attendance at our Business Development and Transload Conference brought together more than 220 participants from 95 companies spanning Canada, the United States and Mexico, showcasing the unmatched reach and collaboration within our network,” said Bullard. “By uniting short lines, transload operators, ports and industry stakeholders, this forum sparks new ideas and investments that drive growth and deliver lasting value for partners and customers alike.”

At the marquee event of the conference, CPKC celebrated outstanding performance among transload and short lines with an awards ceremony hosted by Coby Bullard and Mike Walczak, Vice President Service Design and Operations Technology. Awards for outstanding performance and investment and innovation were presented to the following companies:

• 2024 Outstanding Transload Performance Award, Canada: CPKC Transload Scotford, Operated by Arrow Reload Systems, Inc.
• 2024 Outstanding Transload Performance Award, USA: CPKC Transload Shoreham Yard, Operated by Stone Arch Commodities
• 2024 Outstanding Transload Performance Award, Mexico: Sipsa Bajio Terminal
• Driving Growth: Investment and Innovation on CPKC: Sprague Operating Resources, LLC
• 2024 Outstanding Short Line Performance Award, Canada: Essex Terminal Railway (ETR)
• 2024 Outstanding Short Line Performance Award, USA: Fort Worth and Western Railway (FWWR)

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This funding, which was proposed by Governor Maura Healey and passed by the Legislature, stems from a state transportation fund and will “improve safety and reliability across the MBTA system,” according to the agency. It will cover major projects and add new funding into the Rail Reliability Program (RRP) “to support significant, long-term investments, such as repairs and upgrades, in the MBTA’s capital projects and core infrastructure.”

This investment is the second time the MBTA is using revenue from the state “Fair Share” tax to pay for critical projects, the agency noted. The dedicated Fair Share revenue provides the Commonwealth with more borrowing capacity of the CTF, “providing greater financial flexibility to support capital projects across the state.” The funding, the agency says, “will help the MBTA to keep improving service, continuing capital projects, and providing reliability to travelers and riders across the system.”

This funding directly supports both new CIP objectives and the MBTA’s ongoing focus on these core four areas:

• “Safety: Investing in new technology and infrastructure to make the T safe for everyone. This also means upgrading critical systems that are over 100 years old, like the Green Line signal system, and replacing old vehicles when needed so that riders and employees are secure.
• “Reliability and Modernization: Fixing old equipment and upgrading the system by, for example, replacing the MBTA’s oldest locomotives and beginning construction of new, permanent maintenance facilities, like the Arborway Bus Facility and the Widett Layover Facility. These projects directly modernize MBTA operations so the T can run more reliable, on-time service.
• “Accessibility: Making sure all riders can easily use the T, which includes making sure stations are built with a platform height that allows for level-boarding where passengers can walk straight onto the train without a gap or step.
• “Sustainability and Resilience: The investment is designed to address the most critical repairs needed right now, advance modernization so that the system can handle the impacts of climate change and ensure it is durable and resilient.”

The $850 million allocation from the CTF, MBTA says, is currently planned for four specific, critical capital projects, including three rail projects and one bus project, “focused on core infrastructure, vehicle modernization, and climate resilience.” The rail projects include:

• Green Line Infrastructure Projects: “This group of investments will help fund necessary infrastructure to accommodate the new Green Line Type 10 vehicles and support the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant Core Capacity Program. Improvements include power upgrades, modernization of the 100-year-old signal system, track reconfiguration, and modifications to all four maintenance facilities. These upgrades will result in higher capacity, increased frequencies, and full level-boarding at stations to support passenger mobility.”
• Widett Regional Rail Layover Facility – Phase 1: “This initial phase is an early-action package to prepare the 24-acre site for a regional rail layover facility. Phase 1 includes full demolition and environmental remediation of existing structures, geotechnical work, and elevating the site by five feet to meet future climate resilient Design Flood Elevation. Crucially, this phase will support the design and construction of a six-track electrified layover facility to support Battery Electric Multiple Units (BEMUs), enabling the new fully electrified service on the Fairmount line by 2028.”
• Locomotive Procurement: “This funding adds value to the ongoing procurement of new Commuter Rail locomotives, ensuring the replacement of the oldest vehicles in the fleet and maintaining service reliability.”

“This vote by the MBTA Board and recent vote by the MassDOT Board marks another critical step forward in delivering safe, reliable, and improved public transportation for the riders, communities, and businesses that we serve,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “This $850 million agreement, made possible by the Healey-Driscoll Administration and Fair Share revenue, will provide the critical support and infrastructure needed towards delivering vital projects to better serve the public. We are committed to ensuring we deliver meaningful projects on time and on budget, ensuring safety, improving accessibility and reliability, and delivering a mass transit system for generations to come.”

This critical funding through the RRP program “directly reinforces the MBTA’s unwavering commitment to safety, reliability, and modernization,” the agency said. “The Authority has prioritized tackling decades old, deferred maintenance and addressing asset needs to deliver the consistent service riders deserve. The investments in new vehicles and track upgrades will improve service reliability while the focus on accessibility and resiliency ensures the system is safer and more equitable for ridership.”

The post MBTA: $850MM to Enhance Safety, Reliability appeared first on Railway Age.

Rail components and services provider A. Stucki Company (Stucki) on Oct. 24 reported that Jacob Creech is its new Chief Growth Officer, leading all commercial functions, including sales operations and customer engagement.

Creech joined Moon Township, Pa.-based Stucki earlier this year as Vice President of Sales. He served previously as Director of Locomotive and Railcar Leasing for Progress Rail, a Caterpillar Company. Before that he was a service engineer with Amsted Rail, a Chicago-based manufacturer of freight car components and other rail-related products. Creech holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business from Troy University in Troy, Ala.

“This is an internal succession that reflects both Jacob’s impact and the strength of talent we’re developing within our organization,” said Ron Port, who became Stucki CEO in 2024. “Jacob and his team will focus on building our customer partnerships and developing and converting our sales pipeline while ensuring alignment between operations and finance.”

Stucki, which provides engineered products, reconditioning and repair services, and maintenance of way services, operates more than a dozen companies, with 23 operating centers in the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. Earlier this month, it reported acquiring Wheelworx, a railcar wheelset reconditioning services supplier. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Stucki since 2022 has been owned by a group of investors led by Stellex Capital Management.

The post Stucki Promotes Creech to Chief Growth Officer appeared first on Railway Age.

GPA

The CSX and Norfolk Southern-served Port of Savannah handled 486,000 TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) in September, gaining 8% or 35,280 TEUs, over same month last year, GPA reported Oct. 23. In comparison, the Port in August handled 534,037 TEUs, up 44,000 TEUs, or 9% year-over-year, representing the third highest month in GPA history. For the fiscal year to date (July 1-Sept. 30), Savannah’s container trade is up 4.7% or 66,845 TEUs to nearly 1.5 million TEUs, according to GPA.

Comprising Garden City Terminal and Ocean Terminal, the Port of Savannah has 35 ship calls per week, 42 doublestack trains per week, and 14,000 truck gate moves daily.

It was GPA’s busiest September for total rail lifts, at 51,235 containers, up 21% or nearly 9,000 lifts, compared with the prior-year period, according to GPA. For the fiscal year to date, GPA achieved total rail lifts of nearly 150,000, an increase of 4.7%. The Appalachian Regional Port (ARP), a joint effort of the state of Georgia, Murray County, GPA, and CSX, set a record of 4,453 container lifts last month, up 48% or 1,450 lifts, GPA said. Since July, ARP has handled 11,465 containers, up 1,340 or 13%. The Port of Savannah’s Mason Mega Rail Terminal, served by CSX and Norfolk Southern, also had a strong performance, GPA reported, moving 46,782 containers, up 19% or 7,530 lifts in September. Mason Mega Rail, it noted, has moved more than 138,400 containers this fiscal year through September, an increase of 5,380 lifts or 4% compared with the same point in 2024.

The Port of Savannah completed 316,889 truck gate transactions in September, counting both import and export container moves, according to GPA. Turn times for dropping off or picking up a single container averaged 32 minutes last month. Dual export-import moves averaged 50 minutes. Dual moves, in which a driver drops off an export and picks up an import container, make up approximately 80% of truck transactions at the Port of Savannah. Truck drivers serving the Port of Savannah complete an average of six to eight turns per day, which GPA said represents “the industry’s best supply chain speed through a container port.”

“We’re focused on berth, rail, truck gate and container yard operations to offer the best service in these competitive times for our customers,” GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch said. “50-minute trucker turn times for dual moves at our gates and 22 hours average rail dwell are examples of operational metrics we’re consistently delivering.”

Port of Brunswick’s Colonels Island Terminal, one of the three GPA-owned deepwater terminals at the port, processed 55,811 units of autos and heavy equipment in September, down 30% or 24,100 units compared with the same month last year, according to GPA. Heavy equipment alone accounted for 4,119 units last month, it noted, down from 5,686 units in September 2024.

“Auto manufacturers have reduced production and shipment of some vehicles to the U.S. as they consider changes to manufacturing locations and target markets,” GPA reported. “Luxury vehicle exports to Asia are also down, related to stiffer competition from domestic Asian auto manufacturers. The September dip follows an August decline, with Roll-on/Roll-off volumes seeing paused shipments from manufacturers in Europe, Asia and Mexico.” Golden Isles Terminal Railroad, a Genesee & Wyoming subsidiary, serves the Colonels Island Auto Port, along with CSX and Norfolk Southern.

GPA said that construction of Berth 4 is ongoing with an expected completion in 2027.

“Market cycles are a normal part of business and reflected in supply chain flow,” Lynch said. “We’re focused on adding new berth capabilities to help our RoRo customers compete stronger in the future.”

Separately, GPA recently reported that S&P Global gave it “an excellent rating (high grade) of AA/Stable on GPA’s revenue bonds,” which is “effectively the equivalent rating that Moody’s issued last September 2024 at Aa2.”

Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville 2025-Jeffersonville-Map-Directory_FINAL_9-30-25Download

Tanco Terminals is expanding its liquid barge facility at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville to meet rising demand for blended fertilizers in southern Indiana and northern Kentucky, according to the Ports of Indiana, a statewide port authority operating three ports—Jeffersonville, Burns Harbor, and Mount Vernon—on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan. The $750,000 expansion includes the construction of two 45,000-gallon tanks designed to support Premier Ag, a Seymour, Ind.-based regional cooperative and new customer of Tanco Terminals, the Port reported Oct. 22.

The new tanks will allow Premier Ag to blend fertilizer additives for farmers on an order-by-order basis, tailoring them to local soil conditions, the Port said, noting that this capability is expected to significantly increase throughput at the terminal. Currently, Premier Ag stores UAN (liquid nitrogen) at Tanco Terminals, which allows it to offer 32% and 28% nitrogen that can now be blended with ammonium thiosulfate.

Tanco’s port facility receives liquid shipments via barge, rail, and truck, allowing Premier Ag to purchase products from multiple markets throughout the world and store them locally so products can be blended on an as-needed basis, according to the Port.

“This expansion is about more than just infrastructure—it’s about aligning with the needs of our customers and the market,” said Kip Middendorf, Vice President and Managing Director of Tanco Terminals, which was established at the Jeffersonville port on the Ohio River in 2000 for liquid asphalt and fertilizer products and at the Indiana-Burns port on Lake Michigan in 1977 for liquid bulk. “Premier Ag’s commitment to the Jeffersonville facility was a major driver in our investments, which not only meet today’s needs but also anticipate future growth.”

“Our expansion at Tanco Terminals is a key link in providing better service to our farmer customers,” commented Jeff Jarrett, Vice President–New Business Ventures & Fertilizer for Premier Ag. “Tanco Terminals and the Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville are key players in our strategic vision and ongoing investments.”

According to the Port, future expansion phases are planned as the project footprint is designed to accommodate up to four additional tanks. Tanco Terminals is also developing facilities that will allow Premier Ag to operate 24/7 so trucks can load product at all hours during peak agricultural seasons. Tanco Terminals is also pursuing opportunities in new markets, which could lead to continued growth and diversification at the Jeffersonville site, the Port said. Last December, Tanco Terminals announced it was investing $8.2 million to expand its “liquid tank farm” at Burns Harbor.

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

The post Intermodal Briefs: GPA, Ports of Indiana appeared first on Railway Age.

“Norfolk Southern delivered another quarter of strong results on safety, service, and productivity through a dynamic freight market,” said Mark George, President and CEO of the Class I railroad, which on Oct. 23 posted third-quarter 2025 results, including income from railway operations of $1.1 billion, an operating ratio of 63.3%, and diluted earnings per share of $3.30, each of which was adjusted to exclude expenses related to its potential merger with Union Pacific; restructuring and other charges; and the effects of the 2023 East Palestine, Ohio, derailment.

(Courtesy of NS)

“The entire Thoroughbred team pulled together to serve our customers, achieve an all-time record in fuel efficiency, delivered on key productivity initiatives, and executed a noteworthy land sale that will ultimately deliver rail volumes for years to come,” Mark George continued. “I’m proud of the way our team is performing with discipline and focus—driving results and strengthening our foundation for long term success.”

(Courtesy of NS)

Following are highlights of NS’s third-quarter 2025 results:

• Railway operating revenues came in at $3.1 billion, an increase of $52 million, or 2%, from the same quarter last year, on flat volumes, according to the railroad. Fuel surcharge revenue declined $30 million compared with third-quarter 2024, which NS said represents a 1% headwind to overall revenues.

• Income from railway operations was $1.1 billion, a fall-off of $498 million, from third-quarter 2024, which included a $380 million benefit from two railway line sales in the states of Virginia and North Carolina, NS noted. Adjusting for merger-related expenses*, restructuring and other charges, and the effects of the Eastern Ohio incident, NS reported income from railway operations was $1.1 billion, up $21 million, or 2%, aided by $65 million incremental land sales, compared to adjusted third-quarter 2024. (*In third-quarter 2025, NS incurred $15 million in merger-related expenses, which it said were “primarily related to third-party advisor fees, legal fees, and costs associated with employee retention arrangements.)

• Operating ratio in third-quarter 2025 was 64.6% vs. 47.7% in the prior-year period, which included the aforementioned railway line sales. Adjusting for merger-related expenses, restructuring and other charges, and the effects of the Eastern Ohio incident, NS said the operating ratio for the quarter was 63.3%. This represents 10 basis points of improvement from adjusted third-quarter 2024 which was 63.4%

• Diluted earnings per share were $3.16, down from $4.85 in third-quarter 2024, which included the aforementioned railway line sales. According to NS, adjusting for merger-related expenses, restructuring and other charges, and the effects of the Eastern Ohio incident, diluted earnings per share were $3.30, up $0.05, or 2%, compared with adjusted third-quarter 2024.

(Courtesy of NS)

UP presented its financial report earlier on Oct. 23. “Our third-quarter results serve as a proof point that we are successfully executing on our strategy,” said CEO Jim Vena. “We have a historic opportunity with the Norfolk Southern to create [the United States’] first transcontinental railroad. As we work toward regulatory approval, our team is focused and driving continued improvements in our pursuit of what’s possible.”

Concurrent with 3Q25 earnings, Vena sent a letter to all UP employees outlining the benefits of merging with NS, stating that it “will allow us to move [products] in a faster manner, which will make American goods more competitive, open more markets and provide more jobs.” He reiterated his pledge that company is “guaranteeing a job for every unionized employee that’s working for the two companies on the day the deal closes.” And while he “personally thinks that [the STB] taking the prescribed length of time to review the application is excessive,” he believes the STB “will listen to its constituents and thoroughly examine our application, which will show the combination enhances competition and is in the public interest.”

In a post-earnings call conversation with Railway Age Editor-in-Chief William C. Vantuono, Vena outlined some of the joint initiatives UP and NS have embarked upon to ensure that, operationally, integrating the two railroads will go smoothly. Glitches are bound to occur, he acknowledged, but pointed to his own involvement with mergers during his time with CN, where he spent most of his career, working on the acquisitions of Illinois Central and Wisconsin Central, among other railroads. Read Vantuono’s report here.

Further Reading:

• ‘Network Improvements Power a Better Future for Passenger Rail’ – John Orr, NS
• Preserving the Past, Powering the Future: NS Helps Reunite Georgia’s Railroad History
• Norfolk Southern Powers Past 1,000th Locomotive Modernization
• NS, UP Leveraging Louisville
• For NS, Four ‘Strategic Moves’
• Mechanical Marvel
• UP, NS Notify STB of Intent to File Merger Application
• UP + NS: What Comes Next?
• Union Pacific + Norfolk Southern: It’s Official

DOWNLOAD NS FINANCIAL REPORT, PRESENTATION BELOW: 2025_Q3_Analyst_BookDownload Q3_2025_Earnings_Combined_Presentation_FinalDownload

The post For NS 3Q25, ‘Strong Results’ appeared first on Railway Age.

Amtrak

The first new Amtrak Cascades trainset wrapped up testing in Pueblo, Colo., and is officially headed to the Northeast Corridor for additional testing—marking a major milestone on the path to launching new trains on the Amtrak Cascades corridor in 2026.

“This trainset is part of our bold transformation in passenger rail, Amtrak said in a release.” Known within the industry as part of Amtrak’s Airo fleet, a total of 83 new trainsets will roll out across the country, starting with Amtrak Cascades, followed by the Northeast Regional, and other key routes.

“With Pacific Northwest-inspired design, modern amenities, and regional food and beverage offerings, we’re redefining the journey—one route at a time,” Amtrak said.

A video of the Airo is available here.

MBTA

The MBTA is paying tribute to the 1970s by putting a refurbished retro locomotive back on the tracks, according to a WBZ NewsRadio report.

The MBTA Commuter Rail train sports a classic yellow stripe on the front with a purple wraparound, “a paint job that was discontinued more than 20 years ago,” according to the report.

“We replaced all the components, and we want to keep it running for a few more years, make sure the service is reliable,” said MBTA spokesperson Joe Pesaturo. “Then after the overall work was done, we decided that we would revisit what we call the retro paint scheme.”

The refurbished locomotive left North Station on Oct. 21 at 10:30 a.m. and went to the train yard to be hooked up to coaches and prep for extra service to be done, WBZ NewsRadio reported.

According to the MBTA, “This tribute is part of a series honoring the legacy railroads that shaped the MBTA’s current operations, including the “Boston and Maine” heritage locomotive put into passenger service in September, as well as the upcoming locomotives highlighting the New Haven Railroad, which formed the bulk of the Southside lines, and the New York Central (Boston and Albany) Railroad, which historically operated what is now the Worcester Commuter Rail Line,” WBZ NewsRadio reported.

TransLink

A SkyTrain car from TransLink’s retiring Mark I fleet has been given a new home in a BC film studio—by Lumostage Virtual Production in Langley Township, the agency recently reported. Lumostage has repurposed an original Mark I car and integrated it into a 180-degree LED stage for film and television productions.

(TransLink)

As the very first SkyTrain vehicles near the end of their service lives and make way for new Mark V cars in the coming years, TransLink says it is “inviting creative ideas to ensure these historic trains continue serving the region in fresh and innovative ways.”

“We’re thrilled to see one of our iconic SkyTrain cars enjoy a future which will preserve its legacy while supporting one of our strongest local industries,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “Since first rolling out nearly 40 years ago, the Mark I SkyTrain cars have carried millions of customers and become a defining symbol of Metro Vancouver’s transit system.”

“Filming subway scenes in BC has always been a challenge—until now,” said Lumostage Chief Operating Officer Angus Luk-Ramsay. “By working with TransLink and top motion picture engineers and artists, Lumostage has turned a retired SkyTrain car into a film-friendly, interactive subway train set that makes our province an even more attractive destination for motion picture and commercial productions.”

TransLink is once again looking for other creative ideas to relocate and repurpose the rest of the roughly 130 retiring Mark I SkyTrain cars. Interested individuals, businesses, developers, community organizations, and municipalities are encouraged to submit proposals through a new Request for Information (RFI). This follows an initial call for idea submissions in November 2024.

Accepted applicants are responsible for funding the transport of the SkyTrain cars from the BC Rapid Transit Company (BCRTC) storage facility, as well as covering all the future costs of repurposing the cars.

Creative proposals for the next set of cars will be accepted until Nov. 28, 2025. Additional applications will open at a later date, as more vehicles are phased out of service.

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

With an STB merger filing for acquiring Norfolk Southern targeted for no later than Dec. 1, Union Pacific posted a solid third-quarter 2025, showing “strong operating income growth driven by increased revenue and operating efficiency” and “a best-ever quarter record for freight revenue, excluding fuel surcharge.”

“Our third-quarter results serve as a proof point that we are successfully executing on our strategy,” said CEO Jim Vena. “We have a historic opportunity with the Norfolk Southern to create [the United States’] first transcontinental railroad. As we work toward regulatory approval, our team is focused and driving continued improvements in our pursuit of what’s possible.”

UP reported 3Q25 net income of $1.8 billion, or $3.01 per diluted share. Those results include merger costs of $41 million, or $0.07 per diluted share. Adjusted 3Q25 (non-GAAP) net income of $1.8 billion, or $3.08 per diluted share, compares to 3Q24 net income of $1.7 billion, or $2.75 per diluted share.

Compared to the prior-year period, UP’s operating revenue of $6.2 billion grew 3%, “driven by solid core pricing gains, partially offset by lower fuel surcharge. Freight revenue excluding fuel surcharge grew 4%. The reported operating ratio was 59.2%, an improvement of 110 basis points. The adjusted operating ratio was 58.5%, an improvement of 180 basis points.

UP said its operating results reflect “continued momentum in safety, service, and operational excellence,” with third-quarter records for freight car velocity and locomotive productivity, and “best ever” quarter records for terminal dwell, train length, workforce productivity and fuel consumption rate. The FRA reportable personal injury rate and reportable derailment rate both improved. Freight car velocity was 226 daily miles per car, an 8% improvement. Locomotive productivity was 140 gross ton-miles (GTMs) per horsepower day, a 4% improvement. Average terminal dwell was 20.4 hours, a 9% improvement. Average train length was 9,801 feet (1.86 miles), a 2% increase. Workforce productivity improved 6% to 1,165 car-miles per employee.

UP noted the company is “on track with Investor Day targets.” The 2025 outlook is based on “meeting customer demand with strong service” and a “challenging international intermodal comparison.” Pricing dollars are expected to be accretive to the operating ratio. EPS growth should be consistent with attaining a three-year CAGR target of high-single to low-double digits. UP predicts an “industry-leading operating ratio and return on invested capital, continued strong cash generation.” Capital allocation is based on a capital plan of $3.4 billion. The 3Q25 dividend will increase 3%. Share repurchases have been paused for the Norfolk Southern merger. (Download full financial statement below.)

“In-Depth Examination”

Concurrent with 3Q25 earnings, Jim Vena sent a letter (download below) to all UP employees outlining the benefits of merging with NS, stating that it “will allow us to move [products] in a faster manner, which will make American goods more competitive, open more markets and provide more jobs.” He reiterated his pledge that company is “guaranteeing a job for every unionized employee that’s working for the two companies on the day the deal closes.” And while he “personally thinks that [the STB] taking the prescribed length of time to review the application is excessive,” he believes the STB “will listen to its constituents and thoroughly examine our application, which will show the combination enhances competition and is in the public interest.”

“Working as One Team”

In a post-earnings call conversation with Railway Age Editor-in-Chief William C. Vantuono, Vena outlined some of the joint initiatives Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have embarked upon to ensure that, operationally, integrating the two railroads will go smoothly. Glitches are bound to occur, he acknowledged, but pointed to his own involvement with mergers during his time with CN, where he spent most of his career, working on the acquisitions of Illinois Central and Wisconsin Central, among other railroads.

In the STB application, “we will explain how UP and NS will look” as one railroad. “Working as a team, we’re developing an overall plan, and I’m not worried about taking costs out right away.” The service plan will cover operating independently, transitioning to a single carrier, a process expected to take a while. “We won’t do anything until we’re confident that the numerous integrational aspects will work as expected,” he said. UP’s NetControl IT system, rolled out in January 2024, will extend to the entire combined railroad. Currently, UP and NS are identifying “tether points” that will connect both railroads’ IT systems beginning “on Day 1” of the merger. As far as blending corporate cultures, “we know it’s going to take a few years,” Vena said.

Yet, Vena left little doubt that, clearly, the combined transcontinental railroad will be named “Union Pacific.”

UNP 3Q2025 Financial StatementDownload Q3 2025 CEO Employee Letter-Board FinalDownload

The post UP 3Q25: ‘Continued Improvements in Pursuit of What’s Possible’ appeared first on Railway Age.

Since 2022, BNSF Sustainability Awards have been presented annually “to companies that stand out as industry leaders in sustainable freight,” according to the Class I railroad.

And the 2025 winners are:

1. ADM
2. ABF Freight®, an ArcBest® company
3. AG Processing Inc
4.  Albina Asphalt
5. American Alloy Steel
6. Amrize
7. Big River Steel
8. C.H. Robinson
9. CF Industries
10. COSCO SHIPPING Lines
11. Darling Ingredients
12. Eco Material Technologies
13. Eco-Energy
14. Estes Express Lines
15. Harvestone
16. Helm U.S. Corporation
17. Hybar LLC
18. INEOS US CHEMICALS CO
19. James Hardie Building Products Inc.
20. Kimberly-Clark
21. Kiva United Energy
22. Occidental Chemical Corporation
23. OOCL (USA) INC
24. Phillips 66
25. POET
26. Ravago
27. Rust-Oleum
28. The Greenbrier Companies
29. Tractor Supply Company
30. United Sugar Producers and Refiners
31. Veolia North America
32. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp.

“This year, we congratulate 32 winners that prioritize sustainable solutions to support innovation and growth,” said BNSF Vice President of Environment & Sustainability John Lovenburg. “We appreciate the powerful commitment of these innovative businesses that have chosen to partner with us and utilize the lowest carbon mode of surface transportation that provide long-term environmental, social and economic benefits.”

The post 32 Companies Earn BNSF Sustainability Awards appeared first on Railway Age.

NFI Group and GILLIG on Oct. 22 reported forming a 50/50 joint venture, GR Seating, LLC, to acquire the assets of Michigan-based American Seating Inc., a producer of seats for rail and bus applications.

The joint acquisition by the two heavy-duty transit bus manufacturers is said to secure “a critical component of the transit industry’s supply chain and positions American Seating for operational performance recovery and long-term stability to the benefit of all customers.”

American Seating has offered upholstered, non-upholstered, and traditional seating for rail transit, as well as for the city service bus and motorcoach markets. (Image Courtesy of American Seating)

GR Seating, LLC, will assume ownership of American Seating’s key assets including its equipment, inventory, brand, and intellectual property, according to Manitoba, Canada-based NFI Group and California-based GILLIG. Operations, they said, will continue at the existing facilities in Grand Rapids, under the American Seating name, and the partnership with The United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America, and UAW Local No. 135 will be maintained. The company will also support buses in the field through its aftermarket business and will maintain customer and supplier relationships.

NFI Group and GILLIG reported that they both will have representation on GR Seating, LLC’s Board of Directors, which “will provide governance and oversight to an independent third-party management team.” Neither NFI Group nor GILLIG will be involved in day-to-day operations.

“The joint venture will be working closely with the previous ownership team, including former Chairman, Ed Clark, and former President and CEO, Tom Bush, to ensure a smooth transition while also driving forward a strategy to increase throughput and improve delivery timelines to customers,” NFI Group and GILLIG said. “The joint venture has committed to making dedicated investments in equipment and facilities to enable employees’ success and support the management team’s recovery plan.”

“Today’s [Oct. 22] acquisition displays NFI’s commitment to strengthening the industry’s supply chain and delivering for our customers,” said Paul Soubry, President and CEO of NFI Group, which offers a wide range of propulsion agnostic bus and coach platforms, including electric models. “American Seating has been a long-time supplier to the North American heavy-duty transit industry, recognized for the quality of its products and the breadth of its offering. While American Seating has faced recent challenges, we are confident that through this joint venture we will stabilize and enhance performance, ensuring more consistent supply for their customers and the millions of riders who use their seats every day.”

“This strategic acquisition shores up a critical piece of the industry’s supply chain while reinforcing GILLIG’s commitment to our customers’ success,” noted Derek Maunus, President and CEO of GILLIG, which offers a portfolio of low and zero-emission propulsion options. “In this partnership with NFI, we aim to put the health and stability of the transit industry above all else. We are committed to the success of American heavy-duty transit, and this investment is another way we will continue to drive America forward.”

The post GR Seating Acquiring American Seating Assets appeared first on Railway Age.

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) is accepting nominations for its annual Safety Person of the Year and Safety Professional of the Year awards. The deadline has been extended to Oct. 31.

The awards will shine a spotlight on employees of ASLRRA Class II or Class III member railroads for their contributions and achievements. Winners will be recognized at the ASLRRA Annual Conference, to be held April 12-14, 2026, in Minneapolis, Minn., and receive complimentary registration, travel, and lodging for themselves and a guest, according to the association.

The Safety Person of the Year Award recognizes an employee “who works with management on effective safety programs, exhibits a high degree of safety awareness and contributes off-duty time to activities promoting safety awareness in the community.” The ASLRRA reports that a safety person candidate would be any railroad employee at any level—except those considered to be professional safety management employees—whose actions consistently show a dedication to safe performance on the railroad. In other words, it notes, a safety person is someone who has multiple jobs or responsibilities, with safety being part of what they do; this could include a DSLE or general manager. Find the Safety Person of the Year nomination form here: https://form.jotform.com/242555315516152

Matthew Lane, General Manager of Pioneer Valley Railroad (pictured second from right), earned 2025 Safety Person of the Year award. (Photograph Courtesy of ASLRRA)

The Safety Professional of the Year is open to any professional safety management employee who is responsible for safety programs, training, and the overall management of safe behavior and actions on their railroad(s). A safety professional “is a safety management employee whose job is safety on a full-time basis,” according to the association, which notes that a manager of training, safety manager, director of safety, manager of safety and training, head of safety and training, director of safety and compliance, etc. would be considered a safety professional. Find the Safety Professional of the Year nomination form here: https://aslrra.jotform.com/form/242554424523150

Herman Crosson, Chief Safety and Compliance Officer at Anacostia Rail Holdings, was recognized as the Safety Professional of the Year in 2025. (Photograph Courtesy of ASLRRA)

“Operating safely, being your brother’s keeper, is a cornerstone of the short line railroad ethos,” ASLRRA President Chuck Baker said earlier this year when the association announced its 2025 selections. “Making sure everyone gets home safely every night takes a concerted effort by railroad professionals to build a work culture that puts safe practices at the forefront of operations. Safety Person of the Year Matt Lane and Safety Professional of the Year Herman Crosson have consistently demonstrated this commitment. They are collaborative leaders who work with their teams to improve safety, emphasizing feedback, transparency and trust.”

In related news, ASLRRA earlier this year presented members with Jake safety awards.

The post Call for Nominations: ASLRRA’s Safety Person, Safety Professional of the Year Awards appeared first on Railway Age.

I began in Buffalo, NY, at Ebenezer Railcar, a freight car manufacturer housed in a building once part of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Walking through their roundhouse, I was struck by the craftsmanship and pride that permeated every corner. It was the perfect place to start due to the deep historic root within the American rail story.

From there, I headed east to Hornell, NY, where Alstom is building the Next-Gen Acela trains. I saw everything from bare shells to nearly finished cars, just weeks before their launch. Stepping into the locomotive cab, I was amazed by its simplicity. It was intuitive, efficient and a testament to how far rail technology has come.

Later that day, I visited Knorr-Bremse Signaling in Rochester, part of New York Air Brake. This facility was a revelation with its labs, testing stations and rows of servers. It is a nerve center for rail signaling, routing systems across the U.S. and globally. It was a side of the industry I hadn’t seen up close before, and it underscored how interconnected and technical our member’s work truly is.

In Menands, NY, I toured NSH USA Corporation with our Board Chairman Greg Dalpe. They manufacture machinery that builds wheel sets, which are some of the most critical components in rail. Their precision and safety culture stood out, especially their milestone of 1,000 days without a reportable OSHA incident! That’s a reflection of the values that run deep in our industry: safety first, always.

I wrapped up my New York visits at TransPar in Fort Edward, NY, a family-owned manufacturer and remanufacturer of turbochargers. Their pride in their work was palpable. Whether building new units or reconditioning old ones, they knew RSI and appreciated our outreach. It was a reminder of how RSI is the backbone of the rail supply industry, no matter the size of the member company.

In August, I visited TTX Company in Charlotte, NC. At their yard near the airport, I witnessed a wheel change-out for the first time. Besides this memorable experience, the site was a true multimodal hub that demonstrated the connectedness of rail to transportation in general. Later, I met with their leadership to learn about the challenges they face and how RSI can support them.

In September, I attended the grand opening of Hitachi Rail’s new facility in Hagerstown, MD. They’re building metro cars for Washington DC, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, using robotics and AI to inspect and refine production. Their Boston Dynamics robotic dogs roam the shop floor at night, scanning for defects and comparing builds to CAD models. It’s futuristic, efficient, and a clear sign of how technologically advanced our industry has become.

Earlier this October, I was in Alexandria, LA, for UTLX-Procor’s tank car seminar. Their facility was like something out of Raiders of the Lost Ark — a warehouse stretching over a million square feet, with a walking tour that spanned more than a mile. I learned about tank car design, safety features and the intricacies of leasing and certification. The seminar was eye-opening, and the facility was state-of-the-art despite roots tracing back to the late 1800s.

Across all these visits, one theme stood out: there’s no substitute for being there in person. You can’t fully grasp the scale, precision, or passion of our members from a brochure or a Zoom call. You must walk the floor, meet the teams and see the work in action.

That’s why I’m urging every member to consider hosting RSI and lawmakers at your facility. These visits are opportunities to tell your story on your terms. Lawmakers get to see your impact on the community, understand your challenges and connect your work to the policies they shape.

If you’re planning a visit, here are a few tips:

• Safety first: Provide PPE and let guests know what to wear in advance.
• Make it interactive: Hands-on moments leave lasting impressions.
• Follow up: Send a thank-you note and keep the relationship going.
• Capture the moment: Lawmakers will want photos, and those images help tell your story to the broader community.

RSI has developed a guide to help you plan a successful facility tour. I encourage you to check it out, utilize the sample letter and Tips on Writing to Legislators, and reach out to RSI if you’re interested in hosting. If I’m in your area, I’d love to stop by, meet your team and learn more about your work.

About the Railway Supply Institute (RSI)
The Railway Supply Institute (RSI) is dedicated to advancing safety, innovation, technology, and sustainability within the freight and passenger railway supplier industry, both in North America and global markets. As the voice of the industry, RSI strategically engages in critical and urgent industry matters by leveraging the technical expertise of our members to advocate in the legislative and regulatory arenas, foster education, host impactful events, and facilitate networking opportunities. For more information visit www.rsiweb.org, follow RSI on Twitter and LinkedIn.

The post On the Ground, In the Shop: Why Facility Visits Matter More Than Ever appeared first on Railway Age.

The 2025 Commuter Rail Summit is especially well-timed and placed this year. 

The Commuter Rail Coalition (CRC) annual convention, which gathers agency leaders and policymakers from across the country, is taking place in Washington, D.C. from Nov. 3 to 5. Industry stakeholders will meet for a series of panels and roundtable discussions on Capitol Hill, and many attendees will take advantage of the opportunity to meet with their elected representatives while in Washington. 

There will be plenty to discuss. In early October, Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Tex.) introduced a bipartisan bill that would give passenger railroads 90 days to secure the excess liability insurance coverage that federal law requires, rather than the current and entirely insufficient 30 days, when the federal cap is next scheduled to be inflation-adjusted in 2026. Without the additional time, railroads could be forced to cease operations. 

The CRC supports the bill and is also pushing for the inclusion of a permanent solution to this problem in the upcoming reauthorization of the federal surface transportation programs. We are  advocating for a modification that would provide for the cap to be calculated every four years instead of five, while allowing a full 365 days for implementation. Railroads would acquire coverage in the normal course of business when they complete their annual renewals, sparing them from a second round of time-consuming underwriting

In addition to the liability legislation, many commuter rail agencies—from Chicago to Florida, Philadelphia to San Francisco—are still facing fiscal cliffs that threaten to bring their networks to a halt. The industry is experiencing both unprecedented challenges and opportunities as ridership surges nationwide. Here’s what to expect at the 2025 Commuter Rail Summit:

Focus on AI, Resources, Safety

Michelle Bouchard, Executive Director of Caltrain, was appointed CRC Chair in July. Bouchard, who led Caltrain’s successful $2.4 billion effort to electrify its train fleet, will open the Summit alongside Holly Arnold, Administrator of the Maryland Transit Administration, and Dallas Richards, Ccting CEO of Virginia Railway Express. 

Attendees will then join a session that aims to make sense of what is possible with AI and what to be wary of with the technology. A panel that includes Taylor Sullivan, head of product at Workera AI, will discuss the behavioral science behind AI adoption. Chad Scholes (Metro-North), Praveer Misra (NJ Transit) and Jeremey Feigelson (New York MTA) will chart their paths to decision making around implementation, and real-world applications already in use at commuter railroads. 

Railroad leaders know that measuring the value of commuter rail to the communities it serves provides for powerful messaging and allows agencies to foster important allies. Lizzie (Doherty) Baker, Acting VP of Passenger Experience, Marketing and Revenue at Keolis Commuter Services, will join leaders from Caltrain, Metrolink and Trinity Metro to explore how agencies are telling their stories through data and turning supportive riders into public champions.

The following day, Rep. Dina Titus (D-Nev.) will address the assembled rail leaders during breakfast. Titus is the ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials and a co-sponsor of the excess liability bill. 

Attendees will move on to a discussion on grade crossing incidents, where a panel that includes Tim Rabel, Director of Litigation at Metra, and Dave Dech, Executive Director of SFRTA, will explore the innovative approaches they have taken to address the factors that continue to jeopardize safety at crossings. John Cline, CRC Director of Government Relations, will then work with industry lobbyists and former Congressional staff to help rail leaders sharpen their messaging as they head to meetings on Capitol Hill.

The Summit will also feature sessions on navigating the career ladder to the C-suite, and using creative methods beyond TOD (transit-oriented development) to generate resources for railroads. Post-Summit workshops will prepare attendees for more effective Capitol Hill meetings, and negotiating contract price adjustment mechanisms in an era of higher inflation and tariffs.

Champions of Commuter Rail

Each year, the CRC honors individuals who have impacted the industry through their innovative thinking and inspirational leadership at its Champion of Commuter Rail awards. 

The 2025 Champion of Commuter Rail awardee is Thomas Prendergast, CEO of the Gateway Development Commission. Over a multi-decade career, Prendergast has helmed Long Island Rail Road, New York City Transit, Vancouver’s TransLink, and the whole of the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority. His stints in the private sector included roles at AECOM and STV.

Kay O’Neil, Chief of Network Strategy and Partnering at Keolis Commuter Service, is the winner of the 2025 Doty Award, named for Robert Doty, who empowered a generation of rail leaders by building teams that were diverse by intention and nurtured individual strengths. O’Neil has played a pivotal role in advancing public transportation systems, particularly within Boston’s commuter rail network, and her deep expertise in transportation systems analysis and strategic planning contributed to transformative change. In Boston, O’Neil is known as “The Godmother.”

The CRC is presenting the first Legislative Champion Award to Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), who was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2016 and currently serves on the Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee. One of Senator Young’s priorities in Congress is modernizing and investing in infrastructure, and he proved his support by preserving the Capitol Investment Grants program for construction of new and expanded public transit projects like commuter rail. The Northern Indiana Commuter Transit District owes its significant expansion to the support of Sen.Young.

The 2025 Commuter Rail Summit kicks off in Washington, D.C. on Nov. 3.

The post Commuter Rail Industry, Facing Unprecedented Challenges and Opportunities, Set to Convene in DC appeared first on Railway Age.

At its fall online conference on Friday, Nov. 14, the Rail Users’ Network (RUN) will observe 25 years of advocating for an improved Amtrak, more rail transi, and better connections between the two. The event’s theme will be: An Update: Keeping You Informed in the World of Passenger Rail and Rail Transit. The session will take place from 12:45 until 5:00, Eastern Time, and will feature a panel on the anticipated effects of the proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger on Amtrak and regional rail trains that run on NS and UP as well as a presentation from Amtrak about procurement of much-needed equipment. There will also be several presentations about new starts that are already running or expected soon.

According to RUN, “The conference is designed not only for passenger rail/rail transit advocates, but also for civic and business leaders, environmentalists, planners, real estate developers and members of the general public who are interested in knowing more about passenger rail and rail transit in America.” Railroad and rail transit managers are also encouraged to attend RUN conferences, and participation by managers has been increasing lately. In short, RUN encourages anyone interested in rail to attend.

RUN founder and Chair Richard Rudolph will kick off the conference with some highlights of the organization’s 25-year history, its accomplishments, and what needs to be done to assist advocate efforts to restore or expand new passenger rail and rail transit projects. He told Railway Age: “During the past 25 years, RUN has been working as a national nonprofit organization to encourage development of customer-friendly and reliable passenger rail and rail transit services. This year’s fall conference will highlight new rail and rail transit starts that will promote greater mobility and improve the economic vitality of regions across the nation. While much has happened over the past two decades, we continue to highlight the benefits of rail travel, which reduces highway congestion, lowers carbon emissions and provides a safer, cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation, compared to traveling by car. We also continue to seek out the views of youth, workers, environmental advocates, the elderly and those with disabilities to make passenger travel more accessible, and environmentally friendly.” RUN advocates for trains and rail transit in Canada, as well.

The upcoming conference includes a panel that will present three different views concerning the effects that UP+NS merger could have on Amtrak trains and regional railroads operated by transit agencies. Railroad economist and Railway Age Contributing Editor Jim Blaze will discuss economic issues concerning the merger. Steve Roberts, President of the Rail Passengers’ Association of California and Nevada (RailPAC), will present an advocate’s view from the territory heavily served by UP. Ron Kamilkow, Trustee of Rail Workers United and a retired Amtrak engineer, will present rail labor’s unofficial perspective. (Rail Workers United is not a union, like SMART-TD, BLET, BMWE, BRS, etc.) RUN Vice Chair Andrew Albert, who is also Chair of the Transit Riders’ Council and a rider-representative to the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Board, will moderate the discussion.

In the Passenger Rail Outlook commentary in the January issue of Railway Age, posted on this website in January, I expressed concern about the future of Amtrak’s long-distance network because much of the equipment is nearly 50 years old, and some trains are running with short consists. The recent elimination of the Horizon cars from the late 1980s has exacerbated the car shortage at Amtrak, which needs new equipment as soon as it can be manufactured, delivered and placed into service. Michelle Tortolani, Vice President for Project Delivery Fleet & Facilities at Amtrak, will talk about new equipment and the procurement process for ordering it.

The conference will also feature five presentations about new starts. Project Manager Luis Mota will describe light rail expansion at Phoenix’s Valley Metro Rail, particularly the new South Central Extension, now in service. Because of the new 5.5-mile extension, light rail in the Arizona capital has become a two-line system, rather than a single long line.

From Colorado, Chris Nevitt, Board Chair for the Front Range Passenger Rail District, will talk about the effort to begin running trains between Denver and Fort Collins by 2029. There are also similar efforts to extend service south of Denver to Colorado Springs and Pueblo, and north of Fort Collins to Cheyenne, if Wyoming gets on board.

The Skyline elevated rail line in Honolulu has been controversial and was delayed for years, but a new segment to the airport is coming soon. Lori Kahikina, Executive Director and CEO for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART), will talk about the opening of the Phase 2 extension to the airport and a third phase, which is slated to reach downtown Honolulu in 2031.

Efforts to bring new train service to eastern North Carolina between Raleigh and Wilmington continue. Steve Ungar, Co-Chair of Eastern Carolina Rail and Vice Chair of a new organization, North Carolinians for Passenger Rail, will talk about current efforts to get trains running between those cities.

New York City has only one subway line (the little-known G Train) that does not touch Manhattan, running only in Brooklyn and Queens. There is a proposal for a new mode for those two boroughs: a light rail line on a different route, known as the Interborough Express (IBX). Jordan Smith of MTA Construction & Development will talk about the project and where it stands today.

I will deliver the summary at the end of the conference.

The conference will take place on Zoom. For RUN members, there is no charge to attend the online event, but registration is required. The fee is $25.00 for non-members, the same as the introductory rate for a new member’s first-year dues. So, non-members who register will be enrolled as RUN members and receive membership benefits, including the RUN Newsletter and attending next year’s conferences, through the end of 2026 at no extra cost. To register, go to the RUN website and select the “Fall 2025 Annual Conference” link. There is a “Register Now” button. Alternatively, non-members can send a check for $25.00 to Rail Users’ Network, P.O. Box 354, Northampton, MA 01060. Mail registrations must be received by Nov. 8.

The post RUN 2025 Fall Conference Preview appeared first on Railway Age.

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) on Oct. 16 sent a letter to POTUS 47 signed by 40 chief executives of member companies, all of which are railroad customers, expressing “strong concerns regarding the proposed merger between the Union Pacific (UP) and Norfolk Southern (NS) railroads.”

ACC’s letter (download below) is one of those communications my predecessor, Luther S. Miller, would refer to as “making the obvious less obscure.” Two excerpts:

“Today, the U.S. freight rail system is less competitive than ever. Just four railroads control more than 90% of U.S. rail traffic and most U.S. chemical production facilities are served by only one major railroad. Past mergers have led to severe service disruptions, rising rates, weakened supply chains and a less competitive U.S. industrial base. We have no doubt that combining UP and NS into the nation’s largest railroad will make these problems worse, leaving domestic manufacturers, farmers, and energy producers with fewer choices, higher costs, and less reliable service. And, if approved, this deal will likely spur additional mergers culminating in a nationwide railroad duopoly.”

“The STB has the exclusive authority to review rail mergers and will determine whether the UP/NS proposal is “consistent with the public interest.” The Board must be allowed to do its job and hold firm to a broad view of its mandate and set a high bar for merger approvals. The STB should reject any deal that fails to clearly demonstrate how it would effectively improve service, increase safety, and enhance rail-to-rail competition.”

Most of ACC’s letter does little more than rehash things many of us already know. Yes, Virginia, “the Pope is a Catholic,” as Luther Miller liked to point out.

Whether the merger, if approved—it’s not a “done deal,” as some will lead you to believe—will result in all the negative impacts ACC claims, remains to be seen.

“If there is a communication more dreadful than one written by artificial intelligence, it is one written by committee and distilled down to contain no more backbone than possessed by a banana,” comments Railway Age Capitol Hill Contributing Editor Frank N. Wilner. “If ACC’s intent was to tell POTUS 47 to keep his ‘Royal Hands’ off independent regulatory agency decision-making, the final product is an overly lengthy message in obscurity. Most sorrowfully, ACC—as did Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena, who went hat-in-hand to the POTUS seeking merger support—reveals a regrettable disregard for the statutory decisional independence of the STB and its Senate-confirmed members pledged to follow the letter of the law.”

ACC-CEO-Rail-Merger-Letter-to-President-TrumpDownload

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