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U.S. Sugar has decided to donate an Atlantic Coast Line 4-6-2 to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. U.S. Sugar acquired ACL 1504 in 2021 with plans to expand its popular Sugar Express excursion operation. After purchasing the USRA light Pacific from the City of Jacksonville, Fla., it was moved to Chattanooga for restoration by FMW Solutions, which had previously completed the restoration of ex-Florida East Coast 4-6-2 148 for U.S. Sugar. 

In March, Sugar Express announced that rising material costs and the realization that locomotive 148 was sufficient for the operation led it to decide not to proceed with restoring 1504.

“U.S. Sugar continues to provide a world-class excursion train in America’s Sweetest Town, with Steam Locomotive No. 148 serving as the Sugar Express’ primary motive power and ambassador to us here at U.S. Sugar,” said M. Scott Ogle, Railroad Superintendent of the Sugar Express. “After considering the Sugar Express’ future, we have decided that Steam Locomotive No. 148 is sufficient for meeting the overwhelming demand of guests that ride on our one-of-a-kind, scenic excursion line that traverses hundreds of miles through the core of Florida’s pristine farming communities.” 

TVRM announced it will perform a thorough evaluation of the locomotive before making any decisions about its future. ACL 1504, built by the American Locomotive Company in 1919, is the only remaining USRA light Pacific-type steam locomotive.

The post U.S. Sugar Donates ACL 4-6-2 to Tennessee Valley appeared first on Railfan & Railroad Magazine.

LACMTA

The LACMTA Board on March 26 “unanimously approved a plan that will reshape how residents get around the city,” according to KTLA 5 in Los Angeles, Calif.

The Board selected the San Vicente–Fairfax alignment as the Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA) for the K Line Northern Extension, a 10-mile, 10-station underground extension of the K Line that will run from the E Line north to Hollywood (see map, top). The new rail service will connect with LACMTA’s B, C, D, and E lines, serving six of LA’s busiest bus corridors and improving access to jobs, healthcare, and entertainment (download Fact Sheet below).

053a07067d1eae076d1423315ab37f78Download

“Supporters said the extension will provide direct rail connections to major destinations, including LAX, the Kia Forum and SoFi Stadium,” the media outlet reported. “However, there was some pushback from homeowners concerned about tunneling beneath their neighborhoods.”

LACMTA “has tunneled in a variety of projects throughout Los Angeles County, and many homeowners participated in a tour throughout Los Angeles County of all of the work that Metro has done,” L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath said, according to KTLA 5. “They continue to do safety studies and additional technical analysis to address the concerns that community members have raised. And, as I said, they will continue to do so in order to address the concerns that the community members have.”

According to the media outlet, construction is slated to begin in 2041, with service starting in the late 2040s.

NYMTA (Courtesy of MTA)

The New York MTA on March 25 launched an update of its mobile app exclusively for New York City subway and bus riders. With a single tap, the agency said, users can now find real-time subway and bus arrivals close to them and view the real-time position of a train or bus and its estimated time of arrival at all its future destinations, allowing riders to fully plan their trips from start to finish. The new MTA App also features 24/7 live in-app customer support to answer rider questions, as well as direct customers to other MTA services.

Customers can download or update the existing MTA App through the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). The app is available in English and Spanish. 

According to MTA, the app was developed by an in-house team at a “minimal cost.” The app can be updated and improved regularly, without having to rely on third parties, it added. New features are expected later this year, including OMNY account management ride history. 

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “The new app for subway and bus customers is making a play to be another five-star download, just like TrainTime before it. This is what happens when you invest in and empower in-house talent—best-in-class innovation without the Big Tech price tag.”

The new MTA App is said to retain “popular features that frequent users currently rely on, including favorited lines, routes and stops, per-station arrival times for specific trains and buses, improved user location accuracy, and an in-app trip planner.” It will also continue to allow users to book and manage Access-A-Ride trips. The app will not store any user data, including location, according to MTA. It added that MTA Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Rail Road customers will continue to benefit from the TrainTime App where they can buy and use tickets, plan their trips, and track their trains.

Following is a detailed breakdown of the new features in the MTA App: 

• Subway Experience. “Access to key information, including real-time subway arrival data, station wayfinding, and transfers have been improved in several ways, delivering an overall faster and easier experience navigating the subway system,” MTA said. “The app features more accurate, higher-frequency updates to subway arrival times and locations; a clearer representation of stations with multiple levels and subway lines; information about service changes affecting individual subway lines at a specific station; markers showing riders where to stand on the platform for boarding as well as exiting; improved labels for subway directions; improved service alert iconography, and live arrival times for subway-to-subway and subway-to-bus transfers.”

• Bus Experience. “The new MTA App strengthens and enhances real-time bus service information, making it the go-to tool for bus riders,” MTA reported. “Features include more accurate, higher-frequency updates to bus arrivals and locations; trip-level views for favorited bus routes; real-time bus location markers; arrival times for all bus routes at a specific stop; improved bus stop iconography for easier navigation, and live arrival times for bus-to-bus and bus-to-subway transfers.”

• Accessibility. “The updated MTA App is focused on providing fast, easy to find accessibility information for both subway and bus riders,” MTA said. “Upgraded features include a new accessibility mode: a version of the subway map that highlights accessible stations, easier-to-find elevator and escalator status, support for screen readers and font scaling, and continued integration with Access-A-Ride, allowing customers to book and manage trips.”

• Planned Service Changes. “The MTA App makes it easy to look up current and future subway and bus service changes for the lines you care about most,” MTA reported. “Customers can select now, tonight, tomorrow or this weekend to look up planned work that may affect their travel.”

• MTA Lost and Found. “The new MTA App has a direct link to the official MTA Lost and Found page, providing subway, bus and commuter rail customers with a quick and efficient way to file a claim for lost property,” MTA noted.

BART (Courtesy of BART)

BART on March 25 reported carrying more than a million riders during Super Bowl LX week (Feb. 2-8), the highest ridership week for the transit agency since the pandemic. Thursday, Feb. 5, was also the highest ridership day since the pandemic with 225,832 trips, per BART’s February Ridership Snapshot.  

“Preliminary ridership numbers for March are strong,” BART reported. “Over February and into March, Saturday ridership reached 85% of pre-pandemic levels, and March to date is 14% higher compared to the same period a year ago. Tuesday, March 24, is now the third-highest post-pandemic ridership day with more than 221,000 trips.”

According to BART, the February ridership boost was driven largely by fans and visitors traveling to destinations across San Francisco for Super Bowl-related events and celebrations. The strong performance, the agency noted, highlights its “ability to move large crowds quickly and efficiently, connecting the region during moments of peak demand.”

February ridership highlights:

• Total trips: 4.5 million (+13% year-over-year).
• Average weekday ridership: 191,099 (+11% year-over-year).
• Average Saturday: 129,183 (+27% year-over-year).
• Average Sunday: 77,296 (+15% year-over-year).

BART reported that Saturdays “saw particularly impressive growth, reflecting increased demand for events, entertainment, and weekend travel across the region.”

In February, more than 685,000 trips were taken using Tap and Ride, up 7% compared with the previous month, which BART said reflected “continued adoption of contactless payment options that speed up station entry and improve the rider experience.”

BART ridership was also up in January.

Even with continued growth, fare revenue has not returned to pre-pandemic levels and is not enough on its own to fully fund operations, according to BART. “Like transit agencies nationwide, BART faces a structural budget deficit as remote and hybrid work patterns reduce traditional commute trips,” it noted. Read more about BART’s funding deficit here.

Find comprehensive BART ridership reports here and daily ridership numbers here.  

Further Reading:

• BART Adopts Alternative Service Plan Outlining Budget-Balancing Details (part of Transit Briefs)
• For Bay Area Transit, a $590MM ‘Fiscal Bridge’

Denver RTD (Courtesy of RTD)

RTD’s preliminary, unaudited 2025 financial results “indicate a 17% year-over-year revenue growth, totaling $1.3 billion revenue,” the agency reported March 26. “RTD’s financial position is strengthened by investment income and continued grant performance contributing to financial progress and disciplined management across the organization.”

Customer boardings “remain stable though reduced from 2019 levels due to enduring fully remote and hybrid work schedules which began in 2020 that impact total boardings and fare revenue,” according to RTD, which provides bus, commuter and light rail, shuttles, ADA paratransit, demand responsive, special event, vanpool, and many other services. However, RTD said its sales and use tax revenue mitigates reliance on fares solely for overall revenue. While RTD said it is “operating at a deficit during a multi-year adjustment cycle,” the agency is “focused on long-term sustainability as a provider of critical transit resources across the service area.”

Chief Financial Officer Kelly Mackey said, “Under the leadership of General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson, in partnership with the Board of Directors, staff is addressing the deficit head-on and preparing for the 2027 budget cycle; transparency will remain central to that work.”

RTD’s sales and use tax revenue grew 1.3% to $869 million though $34 million below budget (-4%) due to projected construction starts and permitting that did not materialize for use tax, according to the agency. RTD fare revenue of $61 million decreased 4% year-over-year and was $4 million favorable to budget (7%), it said.

The agency reported a preliminary net position decrease of $227 million, which was a 20% year-over-year improvement and $163 million (42%) better than budget. RTD boardings declined by 0.3% in 2025 compared with the prior year but increased by 4.3% in the second half of 2025 compared with the same timeframe in 2024 “due in part to an update in the A Line ridership counting method,” RTD said.

“Notably, 2025 working capital declined as pandemic-era federal funding was utilized—not only for RTD, but transit agencies nationwide—while operating costs continued to increase,” RTD reported. “Even so, liquidity remains well above pre‑pandemic levels, supporting stability and debt‑service capacity.”

RTD also reported that S&P Global Ratings on March 13 affirmed its “financial strength,” with the agency maintaining its AA+ long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) on certificates of participation (COPs) outstanding. “S&P affirmed RTD’s stable outlook, recognizing the agency’s healthy liquidity and manageable debt profile, while highlighting the importance of continued progress in addressing the structural deficit as the agency prepares for the 2027 budget cycle,” RTD said.

On Jan. 15, Fitch Ratings reported that RTD maintained its AA+ rating on RTD’s FasTracks revenue bonds and AA on COPs with stable outlooks across all categories, according to RTD. Similarly, it said, on Dec. 17, 2025, Moody’s affirmed that RTD maintained its ratings of Aa2 on FasTracks revenue bonds and A1 on COPs with a stable outlook.

“The credit rating agencies recognize RTD’s proactive and conservative financial management and policies and RTD’s support from voter-approved sales and use taxes that enable the agency to provide transit services for 3.1 million customers across its 2,345 square-mile service area,” RTD said. “The ratings reflect confidence in RTD’s proactive financial management and recognize the need for its essential role as a transit provider across the Denver metro area.”

Further Reading:

• Denver RTD Launches Comprehensive Operational Analysis (part of Transit Briefs)
• Denver RTD Releases 3Q Financial Results (part of Transit Briefs)
• Denver RTD Increases Rail System Fare Checks (part of Transit Briefs)
• Denver RTD Earns ‘Stable Outlook’ From Three Credit Agencies (part of Transit Briefs)
• Denver RTD Tabs Tran as CPO
• For Denver RTD, FY26 Budget Tops $1.5B

SEPTA (Courtesy of SEPTA)

SEPTA is launching a pilot program to deploy digital real-time arrival displays at selected trolley and bus stops, according to the transit agency. The first 10 devices will be installed later this spring.

“The screens, which are solar-powered and use e-paper technology, are unique because they are small enough to be mounted on a bus stop sign pole,” SEPTA said. “Knowing when the next vehicle will arrive was a top priority for many of the 20,000 riders who participated in the comprehensive community engagement efforts for SEPTA’s New Bus Network initiative.” Each device will be equipped with a text-to-speech button, enabling blind and low-vision riders to access the same real-time service information.

The timing of the pilot aligns with the anticipated surge in visitors expected this summer when Philadelphia hosts FIFA World Cup matches, the MLB All-Star Game, and America’s 250th birthday celebration, SEPTA reported.

Pilot locations will be selected based on two key criteria: overall customer impact and geographic equity, ensuring that the benefits of improved real-time information reach riders across all parts of SEPTA’s service area, according to the agency. Bus stops, as well as T, G, D and M Metro stations, will be considered for device locations.

“We are committed to leveraging state-of-the-art, secure technology to modernize the rider experience,” SEPTA Assistant General Manager of Information Technology Elisa Cunningham said. “We will evaluate the results of the pilot to determine future phases of deployment across the network.”

“Every improvement we make to our network starts with listening to our riders,” added SEPTA Chief Officer of Customer Experience and Communications Administration Lex Powers. “This program is one more way that SEPTA is investing in the people who depend on us—today and into the future.”

SEPTA is encouraging riders to share feedback about where they would like to see these devices installed.

Alstom (Courtesy of Alstom)

Alstom on March 24 reported being selected by George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, to replace its existing Skyway automated people mover (APM) system and provide operations and maintenance services for 15 years. The contract includes a new Operations Control Center, upgraded Automatic Train Control (Urbalis) and communications systems, 16 new Innovia APM R vehicles, modernized station doors across all terminals, and continued operations and maintenance of the system. The total contract value is approximately $437 million, Alstom said.

Alstom has been operating and maintaining the Skyway APM at Houston’s largest airport for two decades, using the original Innovia APM 100 vehicles built by Bombardier Transportation, which Alstom acquired in 2021. Alstom said it has a dedicated 48‑person operations and maintenance team onsite.

“IAH is undergoing multi‑billion‑dollar expansion to accommodate record‑breaking passenger growth, which topped 48 million passengers last year,” Alstom reported. “The renewed Skyway system will reduce service disruptions, improve passenger flow between terminals, and enhance the overall travel experience. Upgraded digital communications and monitoring systems will increase operational reliability, supporting smoother journeys during peak airport demand.”

Alstom noted that interim busing will be provided when the Skyway is out of service to minimize customer impact. 

“Modernizing Houston’s Skyway system is essential to meeting the needs of one of the fastest‑growing airports in the United States,” said Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas. “This next‑generation APM will deliver more reliable, seamless travel for millions of passengers every year. We are proud to continue our long partnership with IAH and to help shape the future of airport mobility together.” 

Separately, in March four new Alstom APM vehicles entered service at Tampa International Airport in Florida, and last May Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia took delivery of the first of 29 APM vehicles from Alstom.

Further Reading:

• Toronto Commuter Operating Contract Extension Signed
• Toronto Orders New Subway Train Fleet
• IAM Alstom Members Ratify First Contract
• Mexico Awards $1B Passenger Fleet Contract
• From Expo 86 to Everyday Essential: SkyTrain Marks 40 Years
• Finch West LRT Opens
• Alstom, CTDOT Unveil Commuter Railcar Mockup
• Montreal REM Segment 2 Launches
• NJT Slates $917MM Multilevel I, II Overhaul

The post Transit Briefs: LACMTA, NYMTA, BART, Denver RTD, SEPTA, Alstom appeared first on Railway Age.

The agreement adds R. J. Corman, which operates 19 short line railroads in 11 states and serves all major North American railroads, to a growing roster of commercial partners, noted Intramotev, which currently has active TugVolt deployments under way with Carmeuse Americas and Watco. Last month, the company announced that Ray Betler, former CEO of Wabtec, has joined its Board of Directors.

“We strive to be the best service provider to our customers by continuously improving rail operations to be as safe and efficient as possible. Deploying Intramotev’s TugVolt railcars is a direct investment in that commitment,” said Justin Broyles, President and CEO of R. J. Corman Railroad Group, which employs approximately 1,400 people in 24 states. “We’re looking forward to putting their technology to work.”

“R. J. Corman is one of the most respected operators in the rail industry, and we’re honored to work alongside them,” said Tim Luchini, CEO of Intramotev. “When it comes to proving that autonomous rail is ready for commercial deployment, there’s no better validation than a partner who has spent over 50 years moving American industry.”

The post R.J. Corman to Utilize Intramotev’s TugVolt Railcars in Switching Operations appeared first on Railway Age.

GPA

Gateway Terminals Savannah has announced the appointment of Bryan Blalock as President, effective April 13, 2026. He will succeed Kevin Price, who will transition to the GPA leadership team as the newly announced President on July 1, 2026.

“We would like to welcome Bryan Blalock to Savannah and the important role he will play supporting the ocean carriers who call Savannah. Collectively between the Georgia Ports and Gateway, our aim is to provide our mutual customers, both the Ocean Carriers and Truckers, a best-in-class experience,” said GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch.

Blalock joins from CMC where he was the COO, covering 60+ operations with 1900 employees. He brings a distinguished 35+ year career of optimizing business processes, strategic planning and innovative solutions in the port terminal industry.

“Bryan’s leadership, credentials, safety mindset and way of working with people will enable Gateway Terminals Savannah to continue on a high-performance trajectory and get closer to our customers,” said Price. “We are excited to have him join our team.  He has worked in all facets of our industry, brings excellent working relationships in our region and will be immediately effective in his new role, allowing a seamless management transition.”

“I’m honored to join Gateway Terminals Savannah—a leader in the stevedore industry with its best practices and high growth. The Port of Savannah is one of the fastest growing ports in the country and I’m looking forward to helping our customers win more business by delivering best-in-class operations,” said Blalock.

CSX

Judy Covington‑Poole, CSX Technical Director, was named Woman of the Year by the National Association of Railway Business Women Jacksonville Chapter, the Class I recently announced in an X post.

“Covington-Poole leads teams that help keep technology reliable so railroaders across our network stay connected and supported, Congrats, Judy—thank you for leading with service and collaboration,” CSX wrote.

Judy Covington‑Poole, CSX Technical Director, was named Woman of the Year by the National Association of Railway Business Women Jacksonville Chapter. She leads teams that help keep CSX technology reliable so #railroaders across our network stay connected and supported. Congrats,… pic.twitter.com/zc9ETHdVSJ

— CSX (@CSX) March 27, 2026 CPKC

CPKC recently congratulated via LinkedIn John Furlong, Terry Savage, and Mohamed El Bitar for winning a 2026 CEO Award for Excellence for their “transformative track technology.”

“Setting a new standard for how we monitor and manage track infrastructure, their work resulted in fewer slow orders, improved asset life and more reliable service for our customers.

“With safety as our top priority, their shift from reactive fixes to predictive maintenance plays a key role in making our railroad safer, more efficient and better positioned for long-term performance,” CPKC wrote.

Northern Plains Railroad

Jesse Chalich, President of Northern Plains Railroad, passed away suddenly on March 11, 2026, the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) recently announces.

Jesse Chalich

“Noted in the obituary, Chalich started his career as a conductor/engineer in 1997 on the Northern Plains Railroad in central North Dakota. As a 4th generation railroader, the love for the industry and its culture ran deep in him.

“Chalich quickly moved into customer service, where his natural ability to connect with people quickly stood out. Known for his genuine care for others and the trust he built with those around him, Chalich later transitioned into marketing and executive leadership roles, helping guide the company as it expanded from 40 to more than 200 employees. Over time, he rose through the organization, ultimately serving as President and Chief Operating Officer of the Northern Plains Rail companies—a role he led humbly with pride, integrity, and dedication until his final day. Under Chalich’s leadership, the company maintained exceptional employee morale and a culture that truly supported employees in putting safety and family first.”

The post People News: GPA, CSX, CPKC, Northern Plains Railroad appeared first on Railway Age.

The CIP is a rolling, five-year financial plan that funds all MBTA capital projects, “seeking to deliver meaningful results for riders today while building a best-in-class transit system for the future,” according to the agency. Capital projects are investments or activities related to acquiring, renewing, constructing, improving, or maintaining a capital asset, including project planning and design. To support these goals, the capital projects in the proposed FY27-31 CIP focus on:

• “Regular Maintenance: Building on the MBTA’s recent progress to effectively and efficiently deliver results for our riders now and in the future.
• “Building for the Future: Tackling major modernization projects that set a strong foundation for future infrastructure while seeking additional funding.
• “Improving Service for our Riders: Ensuring improved service in the near- and long-term by improving frequency and reliability, decarbonizing the system, and improving the experience of riders.”

This proposed FY27-31 MBTA CIP (download below) includes more than 680 unique capital projects for a programmed spend of $10 billion over the next five fiscal years to “modernize, improve, and increase the safety and reliability of the MBTA.” These investments, the agency says, “aim to maintain a state of good repair, modernize MBTA assets, improve service, and meet strategic priorities and performance goals.” It is informed by the Capital Needs Assessment and Inventory, the MBTA Strategic Plan, and long-term plans such as Focus40, the Rail Modernization Plan, and Focus 2050, the Program for Mass Transportation (PMT) currently in development and also open to public comment now. Updated every five years, the PMT will bridge the MBTA Strategic Plan and the fiscally constrained CIP, “identifying investment priorities and potential capital improvements over 25 years through 2050.”

“Under the leadership of the Healey-Driscoll Administration and with the support of our Legislative and municipal partners, the MBTA continues to set a national example for how to accelerate transportation infrastructure projects that drive economic vitality supporting jobs, businesses, and communities,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “We are strategically planning to deliver capital projects that deliver meaningful benefits, improve service, and ensure safety to meet and exceed the needs of today and future generations. I invite all riders and community members to weigh in on the proposed Capital Investment Plan – your input is essential as we continue to build the MBTA in which we can all take pride.”

2026-03-26-fy27-31-proposed-cipDownload

The post MBTA Invites Public Comment on Proposed FY27-31CIP appeared first on Railway Age.

U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.), who has served as House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair since 2023, has announced he will retire from Congress in January, at the end of this session.

“After considerable reflection, 2026 will be my final year in Congress,” Graves reported March 27 via social media platform X. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s the right one. I believe in making room for the next generation. It’s time to pass the torch and allow a new guard of conservative leaders to step forward and chart a path forward for Missourians.”

From 2019 to 2022, Graves was the T&I Committee’s senior Republican. Before that, he served four years as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, and as the senior Republican of the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.

Graves is also Co-Chair of the House General Aviation Caucus. From 2009 to 2015, he served as Chairman and senior Republican of the Committee on Small Business, and he continues to serve as a high-ranking Member of the Committee on Armed Services.

Graves was born in Tarkio, Mo., on Nov. 7, 1963. He graduated from Tarkio High School in 1982 and attended college at the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he received his degree in Agronomy from the College of Agriculture. In 1992, Graves won his first race for State Representative. In 1994, he was elected State Senator for the 12th Senatorial District and was subsequently re-elected in 1998.

“When I first ran for State Representative back in 1992, my aspiration was to represent my hometown of Tarkio, Missouri,” Graves reported March 27. “I was a twenty-seven year old farmer who just wanted to stand up for a way of life and his community. I never could have imagined where that decision would take me.  

“For 8 years in the Missouri House and Senate, I fought for Northwest Missourians. From deregulating vehicle inspections, to standing for chain gangs, to securing funding for rural schools in the desegregation fight, I never lost sight of why I was sent to Jefferson City. Then, in 2000, the good, hardworking people of Missouri’s Sixth District entrusted me to be their voice in Congress.   

“For 26 years, I have had the privilege of serving, culminating in becoming the Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and passing some of the most significant legislation in our nation’s history. The responsibility entrusted to me is not something I have ever taken for granted. Not for a single day.  

“What I’m most proud of is the work my team did when Washington made life harder for the people of Missouri’s Sixth. Together, we stood with hundreds of thousands of Missourians in their toughest moments.  We helped them cut through red tape and navigate a system that often felt stacked against them. We got them answers and fought to deliver real results when they needed them most.  

“I’ve said all of that to say this: After considerable reflection, 2026 will be my final year in Congress. … 

“That doesn’t mean I’m slowing down, not even close. As I enter the 4th quarter of my life, I have more left in me. As many of you know, I don’t let grass grow under my feet. We’ve still got a lot of work to do. I’m going to fight to protect Missouri interests as we work to shape this year’s Highway Bill. I plan to finish this last term the same way I started, full speed ahead.  

“Maintaining our strong democratic republic will always depend on good people stepping up to serve from every corner of our great nation. I’m grateful for my colleagues in both parties, for the people I’ve worked alongside, and even for the opponents who challenged me and made me better. Public service isn’t easy. It takes hard work, humility, a thick skin, and a willingness to fight for what’s right.  

“At the end of the day, I’m still the farmer from Northwest Missouri. You’ll find me back home on the farm nearly every weekend, after all, it is planting season. In fact, I’ll probably be on a tractor this weekend. And come Monday, I’ll be heading back through Kansas City on my way to D.C. to keep doing the job you sent me there to do.  From the bottom of my heart, thank you.   

“It has been the honor of a lifetime.”

Graves noted in a separate T&I Committee press release that “Before the end of this year, the Committee must complete a vital surface transportation reauthorization bill to fund America’s roads, bridges, highway safety, transit, and rail transportation systems—a surface bill that will be the most important of its kind in decades.

“The Committee is working on the next Water Resources Development Act to improve our ports, harbors, inland waterways, flood protection, and other water resources infrastructure.  We have bills to reauthorize pipeline safety programs, to modernize Clean Water Act permitting processes to cut red tape in the building of infrastructure projects, and to provide the most significant reforms to FEMA since Hurricane Katrina.

“And just this week [week of March 22], our committee unanimously approved the ALERT Act to address all 50 safety recommendations from the NTSB following their investigation of the tragic aviation accident in our nation’s capital.

“I will remain fully focused on getting these bills and other important legislation over the finish line.  Serving as Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where Members of Congress can and have so often worked together to get things done for all of America, has been a tremendous honor that will drive me until my last day in Congress.”

Graves’ “exit was unlikely to affect the balance of power in the House given the strongly Republican bent of his district in northwest Missouri,” The New York Times reported March 27. “But it was the latest in a wave of G.O.P. retirements over the past several months as Republicans anticipate defeats in November that could cost them control of Congress. And it marked another significant loss of institutional knowledge underway in both parties as a push for generational turnover has prompted senior lawmakers to retire after lengthy careers in Washington.”

American Public Transportation Association (APTA) President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas released the following statement on March 27:

“On behalf of APTA and our over 1,700 members organizations, I extend our deep appreciation to Chairman Sam Graves for his years of dedicated service and his commitment to building a stronger, safer public transportation network for all Americans.

“Chairman Graves has been a trusted partner to the public transportation community. Just last year, he spoke at APTA’s Legislative Conference and challenged our industry to make the case to Congress on the importance of reauthorization. We heard him, and we took that charge to heart. As he prepares to close this chapter, we are mindful of how much his leadership has shaped the path forward—and how much work remains, with the September 2026 reauthorization deadline fast approaching and so much riding on the outcome for public transit riders, workers, and communities across the country.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Chairman Graves through the remainder of the 119th Congress and wholeheartedly thank him for his years of public service and leadership to deliver a strong surface transportation bill for the American people. We wish him well in all that comes next.”

The post House T&I Committee Chair Sam Graves to Retire appeared first on Railway Age.

New Jersey Transit (NJT), at the direction of Gov. Mikie Sherrill, is developing a Rapid Action Plan, “detailing measures to improve specific aspects of the customer travel experience, including cleanliness, accessibility, safety, and the digital experience.” It will hold three virtual forums for the public to help inform the plan’s development.

The New Jersey Governor, on March 24, signed Executive Order No. 16 (download below), which requires the transit agency “to improve commuter experience.” NJT provides more than 925,000 weekday trips on 264 bus routes, three light rail lines, and 12 commuter rail lines, and through Access Link paratransit service. It is the third largest transit system in the country with 165 rail stations, 62 light rail stations, and more than 19,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.

EO-16Download

“Every New Jerseyan deserves a transit system that is safe, clean, accessible, and reliable,” Gov. Sherrill said. “This Executive Order is about delivering cleaner stations, clearer communication, and more dependable service across NJT. We are listening to riders, holding ourselves accountable, and making the improvements necessary to ensure that rail and bus transit work better for everyone who uses it.” 

“The goals of the Executive Order and the focus on public engagement will help in moving our transportation system forward, and I look forward to working with NJT CEO and President Kris Kolluri in executing the Governor’s vision,” NJT Chair and Acting NJDOT Commissioner Priya Jain said.

The Executive Order has two parts:

1. Within 45 days from signing, the Commissioner of Transportation, in her capacity as Chair of the NJT Board of Directors, will develop and send to the Governor “a comprehensive plan to improve riders’ experiences.” Gov. Sherrill is directing the Commissioner to focus the plan on the following priority areas: “Cleanliness of NJ Transit stations, stops, buses, and railcars; “[a]ccessibility of NJT-owned properties, including escalators and boarding areas”; “[p]ublic safety, including lighting, cameras, and law enforcement presence at stations and stops”; and “the digital experience for riders, with focus on the usability and reliability of real-time tracking features on the NJT website and mobile app.” To inform the development of this plan, NJT Customer Advocate Franck Beaumin will hold three public listening sessions (virtual forums) and develop a public survey, for those unable to attend. The survey is posted on njtransit.com/actionplan. Beaumin will report the survey results and feedback from the listening sessions—to be held March 31, April 2, and April 4—within 30 days. 
2. In the 45 days following the delivery of the plan, NJT “will fast-track implementation of the highest priority initiatives so that, by June 22, NJT riders begin to see immediate improvements toward a safer, cleaner, and more reliable ride.”

“Since stepping into this role [in 2024], my top priority has been listening to our customers and gathering their feedback to help deliver a better travel experience across NJT,” Franck Beaumin said. “I truly value the opportunity to engage directly with customers and hear their ideas on how we can make every trip more enjoyable. I look forward to developing a plan that improves the customer experience.”

Separately, in January, NJT launched a language survey to improve the customer experience.

Further Reading:

• For NJT, a Relatively Smooth Portal North Cutover Startup
• NJT: Renovated Vehicle Interiors, Special Anniversary Wrap for River LINE
• Kolluri Tapped to Lead NJT, NJTA
• NJ Transit Introduces New Patriotic Paint Scheme
• NTSB Determines Probable Cause for NJ Transit Collision
• NJT Launches Accessibility, Real Estate Initiatives
• NJT Accelerates Fare Modernization Program
• NJT Exercises MLIII, ALP45-DP Alstom Options

The post For NJT, A ‘Rapid Action Plan’ appeared first on Railway Age.

BNSF’s $3.6 billion capital investment plan for 2026 will help us modernize infrastructure and enhance capacity across our 32,500-mile network. A key part of that plan is a major improvement project underway in Galesburg, Ill., a location central to BNSF operations since the 1850s.

Locomotives at the Galesburg yard. (Caption and Photograph Courtesy of BNSF)

Located about 200 miles southwest of Chicago, Galesburg is the second-largest hump yard on BNSF’s system and an essential hub for sorting and classifying railcars. To increase efficiency and support long-term growth, we are adding a second hump lead track—a significant enhancement that will increase switching capacity and improve overall terminal performance.

The Galesburg hump crest. (Caption and Photograph Courtesy of BNSF)

Galesburg’s strategic location, combined with its yard capacity, makes it one of BNSF’s most important merchandise terminals. 

The Galesburg classification yard. (Caption and Photograph Courtesy of BNSF)

“With Chicago serving as the nation’s largest rail interchange hub, Galesburg provides essential classification support for traffic moving to and from interchange partners,” said Felicia Mosenfelder, Corridor Superintendent for the Chicago Division. “The Galesburg yard’s performance is vital to sustaining fluid, dependable operations systemwide.” 

Currently, Galesburg’s hump is served by a single lead track. After an inbound train arrives into a receiving track, the cars are pulled to the hump lead to then be pushed over the hump to be sorted based on next destination.

An aerial of the hump yard expansion. (Caption and Photograph Courtesy of BNSF)

“This capital project will add a second parallel hump lead that will reduce the time between processing trains over the hump, because a second inbound train can be readied on the lead while the prior train is being pushed over the hump crest,” explained Craig Rasmussen, Assistant Vice President of Engineering Services & Structures. 

In addition, how the yard is configured today results in tracks on the east side of the yard being unable to directly reach the hump crest, Rasmussen added. “The second lead will connect into these tracks, allowing operational flexibility with more tracks available to arriving inbound trains.”

The Galesburg yard with hump in the background, left. (Caption and Photograph Courtesy of BNSF)

Once completed, the upgraded yard will be able to process approximately three additional trains per day or about 300 cars.  This added capacity will meaningfully improve terminal fluidity and contribute to more consistent merchandise service across the BNSF network.   

“This expansion enhances terminal reliability and supports more predictable schedules for our customers, contributing to steadier transit times and overall service dependability,” Mosenfelder added. 

Currently the area is being graded and is expected to be ready for track installation in May.

At top, a southbound view of grading work; at bottom, a northbound view. (Caption and Photographs Courtesy of BNSF)

Beyond the yard, a BNSF certified site is available southeast of Galesburg. This industrial park offers convenient access to both BNSF’s main line and nearby highway infrastructure. The site, along with improvements at the yard, positions the region for continued economic and customer growth.

Galesburg has long been a railroad town. (Caption and Photograph Courtesy of BNSF)

For nearly two centuries, BNSF, its predecessors and Galesburg have been inextricably tied since the settlement was founded in 1836. The city became a major railroad center not long after the first train passed through in December 1854—and we continue the tradition of mutual growth with this latest expansion project.

This article first appeared on the BNSF Rail Talk website.

The post BNSF: Investment in Galesburg Yard to Boost Efficiency, Support Growth appeared first on Railway Age.

With a direct connection to Savannah’s 40 ships per week global ocean carrier network, local manufacturers—including poultry, heavy equipment, and forest product companies—can reach international markets more efficiently, GPA noted.

Direct rail with service five days a week between Northeast Georgia and Savannah gives shippers an alternative to a 600-mile roundtrip truck route “that will reduce trucks on Georgia’s highways and in the Atlanta region,” according to GPA.

“Our new inland rail facility in Gainesville, Georgia, will significantly offset truck traffic congestion in Atlanta and improve air quality by replacing an estimated 26,000 truck roundtrips in the first year alone. We’re already seeing positive customer engagement and Norfolk Southern will bring an excellent level of service working together with GPA,” said Georgia Ports President and CEO Griff Lynch at the March 24 GPA Board meeting.

At full build-out, the $134 million Gainesville Inland Port (formerly known as the Blue Ridge Connector) will have an annual capacity of 200,000 containers.

To reduce the new railyard’s traffic impact on local communities in Gainesville, GPA funded $4.8 million in Hall County projects, eliminating an at-grade rail crossing, rerouting White Sulphur Road and surfacing Cagle Road. The new White Sulphur route south of the inland terminal “ensures free access for emergency vehicles and avoids traffic disruption from trains,” GPA noted. Equally important, the resurfacing of Cagle Road “offers an improved alternative for residents.” Both projects were completed in late summer 2025.

GPA is carrying out a nearly $5 billion infrastructure investment plan over the next decade to expand berths, yards, gates, inland ports and rail capacity. 

“New infrastructure assets take planning and time to build,” said GPA Board Chairman Alec Poitevint. “We believe in a steady investment that delivers port capacity ahead of our customers’ future needs. This enables our customers to plan long-term for the future and have confidence their supply chain keeps pace with growth. We want to thank Governor Kemp, the General Assembly, and GDOT for the great work they are doing with Peach State infrastructure projects outside the terminal, like Brampton Road, the Talmadge Bridge, and the widening of Savannah highways for freight to move easier.”

The post GPA’s Gainesville Inland Port Set for May Opening appeared first on Railway Age.

March 27, 2026 marks 50 years since WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) inaugurated the Washington Metro (Metro Rail) rapid transit system in the National Capital Region. The first passenger-carrying Metro Rail trips occurred On March 27, 1976, on the 4.6 miles of Red Line connecting Rhode Island Avenue and Farragut North. We at Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corp. and Railway Age are proud to say that this publication played an important role in its development.

In the late 1960s, then Railway Age Editor-in-Chief the late Luther S. Miller—my predecessor—and then Publisher the late Robert G. Lewis led tours of other rapid transit systems around the world—Paris and Stockholm, for example—for Metro Rail planners, engineers and architects to gather ideas. Interestingly, the Washington Post criticized these transit system tours as “junkets” and “boondoggles.”

The Washington Post had it all wrong. Among the people participating in our tours was Stanley Nance Allen (1921-2015), longtime Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA) and past president of architectural firm Harry Weese and Associates, from which he retired in 1995. Allen’s most significant impact as an architect—indeed, his most important career achievement—was development and construction of Metro Rail, for which he was project manager from 1964 through 1977 at Harry Weese and Associates. Weese designed Metro Rail’s modern, spacious, cavernous open-concept subway stations, which at the time were a far cry from the “hole in the ground” stations typical of legacy U.S. subway systems like New York City Transit. The RATP (Paris Metro) stations inspired him. (NYCT’s newest lines, like the Second Avenue Subway and Seventh Avenue Subway West Side Extension, are designed similar to Metro Rail’s.)

Shutterstock/Nicole Glass Photography

Today, Metro Rail is a six-line, 130-mile network with 98 stations. In 2025, the system delivered 147 million trips. Since 1976, Metro Rail customers have taken more than 7 billion trips.

“Metro was a bold vision and investment in the region by previous generations,” said Metro General Manager Randy Clarke. “Fifty years later, it remains essential to how people connect to jobs, school, and opportunity. Today, we honor the organizers, the decision makers, the builders, the employees, and the customers who have made America’s Metro System an integral part of the region over the past half-century. Team Metro is committed to stewardship of this great system and continuing to provide safe, frequent, and reliable service for the next 50 years.”

“Throughout the coming months, Metro will celebrate its Golden Anniversary with special 50th anniversary Smart Trip cards, vehicle wraps, pennants, trading cards, and merchandise,” the agency said. ”Customers can walk down memory lane at Metro50th.com, a dedicated website where they can see a timeline of our history and browse pennants and photos from years past. Later this year, a commemorative 50th anniversary coffee table book will be released.”

Revised Budget Proposed

Coinciding with Metro Rail’s 50th, Randy Clarke proposed revisions to the FY2027 Budget originally presented during the WMATA Board of Directors meeting in December 2025. “The revised budget proposal reflects Metro’s continued commitment to financial management and efficiency by managing jurisdictional subsidy growth at 1.8%, which is below the cost of inflation and the 3% regional target,” Clarke said. “Metro is leading the nation in ridership growth and is focused on efforts to bolster fare collection by expanding programs like Tap. Ride. Go., which is available on Metro Rail and Metro Bus, and is currently being implemented at more than 40 Metro parking facilities throughout the system. Tap. Ride. Go. along with other fare product offerings support continuous improvement efforts to remove friction for customers and promote transit accessibility for the region.  

“The proposed revisions reflect the momentum Metro has seen over the past few years, allowing Metro to tightly manage budgets and cost efficiency efforts that allow continued service improvements where revenue, ridership, and impact needs are reflected most throughout the region. The revised proposal (download below) asks for the Board’s consideration of … adjusted service improvements and fees.”

FY2026-Mid-Year-Financial-Review-and-Revised-FY2027-Proposed-BudgetDownload For a comprehensive Metro Rail history, see the Wikipedia entry. A 7000-series train at Farragut West in April 2018. Tdorante10/Wikimedia Commons

The post WMATA—and Railway Age—Mark 50 Years of the Washington Metro appeared first on Railway Age.

As part of the funding, MTS received $48,315,000 for Phase 2 of the Orange Line Improvement Project, also known as Rail Ready. This project, the agency says, will deliver critical upgrades to the aging Orange Line corridor, “improving safety, reliability, and long-term state of good repair across approximately 18 miles of track.” Phase 2 focuses on enhancements from Massachusetts Station through El Cajon Transit Center, “building on prior investments and advancing system performance across the eastern segment of the line.” Project elements include:

• Grade crossing safety enhancements.
• New universal interlocking crossovers.
• Replacement of aging signal interfaces.
• Additional signal, track, and communications improvements.

This funding, MTS says, builds on earlier investments from a 2022 TIRCP award, which supported Phase 1 improvements from 32nd & Commercial Street Station through West Massachusetts Avenue Station. Phase 1 modernized track, signal, grade crossing, and variable message sign (VMS) systems. Infrastructure design for Phase 2 was completed on Dec. 18, 2025, and construction is anticipated to begin in July 2026.

As part of the grant process, MTS requested formal allocation of TIRCP funds from the California Transportation Commission (CTC) this month. Following approval at the March 20 meeting, the funds will be obligated to MTS, enabling construction to proceed as scheduled.

The funding allocated by the CTC is part of TIRCP’s Cycle 6 awards. In 2023, the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) allocated more than $3.4 billion statewide for initiatives that “enhance transit safety, increase ridership, modernize infrastructure and strengthen regional connectivity.”

“This investment from the State of California allows MTS to upgrade our transit network and make meaningful improvements for the communities that depend on us most,” said Stephen Whitburn, MTS Board Chair and San Diego City Councilmember. “The projects funded will strengthen safety, reliability and sustainability. These funds help ensure that our riders benefit from clean, efficient and future‑ready transportation for decades to come.”

“Public transit is a lifeline, and this investment in MTS reflects exactly that. These funds will mean more reliable service, cleaner vehicles, and better infrastructure for the San Diegans who depend on transit most to get to work, to school, to each other and home safely,” said Clarissa Reyes Falcon, Chair of the California Transportation Commission. “As both Chair of the California Transportation Commission and a proud San Diegan, I couldn’t be more pleased to see these dollars coming home. I look forward to seeing the difference firsthand alongside the riders this investment is meant to serve.”

The post San Diego MTS: $60.4MM to Advance Modernization Projects appeared first on Railway Age.

According to BNSF, these projects created more than 1,200 jobs across industrial, agricultural and consumer markets while “expanding production capacity, strengthening supply chains and supporting long-term economic growth.” Notable projects completed in 2025 include U.S. Steel and South Dakota Soybean Processors.

In addition to strong customer investment activity, BNSF recently welcomed a new Certified Site near Mobile, Ala., the first BNSF Certified Site to be served by a BNSF Shortline Select Partner, Genesee & Wyoming’s (G&W) Alabama & Gulf Coast Railway (AGR). The announcements, the Class I says, “further magnify BNSF’s commitment to growth through strategic partnerships.”

“The record number of projects completed in 2025 reflects strong customer investment and continued confidence in rail-supported growth,” said BNSF Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Tom Williams. “At the same time, expanding our portfolio of rail-ready sites strengthens the pipeline for future development, helping customers access markets, expand operations and execute long-term growth strategies with greater certainty.”

The post BNSF Customers Invest More Than $5.3B in 2025 appeared first on Railway Age.