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by Justin Franz

No tool has changed railroad photography more since the advent of the telephoto lens than the drone. Sure, you could argue that digital cameras were a big deal, but they ultimately didn’t change the “look” of railroad photography as much as telephoto lenses did starting in the 1960s or drones in the 2010s. In both instances, entirely new compositions became available to photographers.

But now, the future of drone railroad photography in the U.S. is threatened by a government ban on the sale of new foreign-made drones.

DJI Drone Ban
The last time we talked about drones in Camera Bag was in July 2025. At that time, drone enthusiasts were still processing the impacts of the National Defense Authorization Act, a massive military spending bill that passed a few months earlier. Deep in the text was a provision that called for the federal government to conduct a security audit on drones produced by DJI, the Chinese-based manufacturer that dominates the consumer drone market. If the government didn’t conduct such an audit, DJI would be added to the Federal Communications Commission’s “Covered List,” which includes companies the government believes “pose an unacceptable risk to national security.” In layman’s terms, being added to the list means that DJI would no longer be able to release and sell new drones in the U.S. For its part, DJI said it welcomed the security audit and was confident that its products did not pose a threat to U.S. security or the privacy and security of its users. But unfortunately for DJI and U.S. drone users, that security audit never happened, and the FCC added DJI to the naughty list a few days before Christmas. But that wasn’t all; the FCC went a step further, announcing on December 22 that it was banning all foreign drone companies from selling new products in the U.S. Considering DJI controls 70 to 80 percent of the consumer drone market worldwide, for all intents and purposes, it’s still mostly just a DJI ban.

Previously, opponents of DJI have alleged that the company’s drones pose a threat to Americans due to data collection. But this time around, the argument against it was more about physical threats. In its public notice announcing the ban, the FCC said that foreign-made drones posed a threat to U.S. safety and security for several reasons, including the possibility that they could be used by cartels to smuggle drugs across the border (although there was no mention that a U.S.-made drone could also do that, or by one of the tens of thousands of automobiles that cross the border every day; but I digress). The FCC also argued that foreign-made drones could pose a threat to large gatherings, like sporting events or parades (although, again, so could the aforementioned U.S.-made drone or automobile).

You really didn’t have to read much between the lines of the press releases to find the real reason why the government was doing this — it’s trying to put the thumb on the scale on the side of the U.S.’s still-minuscule drone industry. Citing an executive order from the middle of last year, the FCC noted that “ensuring a strong and resilient drone industrial base is an economic and national security priority.”

As with everything in American life these days, there’s a political angle — although in this rare instance, it appears both parties are aligned in their dislike of DJI. After all, it was President Joe Biden who signed the 2024 defense act into law, and it was President Donald Trump’s FCC that sealed the deal and banned new products from DJI.

What Does It Mean?
So what about the American drone industry? Unfortunately, at this time, it’s predominantly focused on commercial users, meaning the drones that are made in the States can cost tens of thousands of dollars, usually out of the price range of even the most serious railroad photographer. The consumer-grade ones, those priced around $1,000 or less, simply don’t compare in quality to what DJI is putting out. And the few companies that were focusing on building consumer drones in the U.S.? Sadly, some of them have gone out of business. Perhaps the government’s handicapping of DJI in the U.S. will lead to more American-made options in the years ahead, but I don’t think that will happen before your next railfan outing.

So What Does This Mean for Me?
If you’re like me and you use a DJI drone (I’m flying an Air 2S), what does this mean? For now, we’re okay. Government agents aren’t about to kick down your door and take your camera. From what I’ve read, the FCC ban only affects new products, not those already certified to fly in the U.S. That means you should also still be able to do software updates as needed. It also means that you can still buy a new drone — at least for now. A quick look at B&H Photo’s website shows that models like the Air 3S or the Mini 4 Pro were in stock, although some bundles (which include an advanced controller and extra batteries) were backordered. One issue was that U.S. Customs had been holding some shipments of DJI drones, alleging that the company was violating the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. Passed in 2021, that law prohibits the import of goods from the Xinjiang region of China, where forced labor among ethnic minorities has been reported. For its part, DJI says none of its products are made in that region.

As time goes on, it seems likely that buying new DJI drones will get harder and harder, and most of the newest models will not be available in the U.S. Of course, what drones are out there now are impressive and, in my opinion, pack more than enough technology needed to be useful for years to come (my rule of thumb is if I can take a photo and it’s good enough for a centerspread in print, then it’s good enough for me). But it’s unclear how much effort DJI will put into making new versions of “old” drones that have already gotten the green light from the federal government. In many ways, the advice I gave back in the July 2025 issue remains as relevant as ever — be extra careful and try not to send that drone into the trees.

Union Opposition
There’s one more bit of drone-related news that flying railfans should be made aware of. One of the nation’s largest railroad unions is calling for drones to be grounded at rail yards and along main lines. Last fall, the National Safety and Legislative Department of SMART-TD sent a letter to the Federal Railroad Administration “demanding a full prohibition on the use of drones by railroad managers, or anyone else, in active rail yards and along main lines where trains are moving.” The filing came as an increasing number of railroads are using drones to inspect infrastructure, but to also stealthily keep an eye on crews.

“Our rail yards are not laboratories or surveillance zones. They’re our offices,” said Jared Cassity, SMART-TD National Safety and Legislative Director. “When a drone flies overhead, it’s not just a nuisance; it’s a distraction in one of the most dangerous work environments in America. And make no mistake; if something goes wrong, it won’t be the manager behind the joystick who gets hurt. It’ll be one of our members. There is nothing cute, cool, or futuristic about any of that.”

It’s unclear whether the FAA will act on the union’s request, and it’s also uncertain how feasible it is to ban drones near rail lines. Most commercially available drones require FAA approval to operate in restricted areas near airports, so the system could potentially be expanded to include rail lines. However, given the extensive size of the rail network, expanding such a system would be a monumental task. There’s also the question of how far from the right-of-way these restrictions would apply.

The only sure thing is this: If you do enjoy railfanning with a drone, go out and get those unique views while you can!

The post Camera Bag: Drone Bans? appeared first on Railfan & Railroad Magazine.

Two rare-mileage excursions on New York’s Finger Lakes Railway will help raise money for planned upgrades to a historic New York Central observation car now cared for by the United Railroad Historical Society of NJ. The “Auburn Road Special” will run on April 18 and 19, between Solvay and Seneca Falls, N.Y., a section of the railroad that rarely sees passenger trains. 

The weekend excursions will also kick off the second season for URHS’s successful Finger Lakes Rail Experience, which debuted last year to great fanfare. URHS and Finger Lakes are partnering with FMW Solutions to run the excursions across New York’s Ontario, Seneca, and Cayuga counties. 

The April excursions will be limited to 78 people and will feature three historic NYC passenger cars: Hickory Creek, Tavern-Lounge No. 43, and the Swift Stream. Proceeds from the excursion will go toward making improvements on Hickory Creek later this year. When the car was restored, certain key historical details were missing, most notably the correct carpet pattern and the identity of the painting that originally hung on the lounge wall. However, in recent years, those important details have finally been rediscovered. URHS plans to add these elements this year, at last, to bring the car even closer to its historically original character and prestige.

Tickets for the excursion go on sale on February 27. Visit URHS.org/aburnroadspecial for more. —Justin Franz 

The post Excursions to Benefit NYC Observation Car Work appeared first on Railfan & Railroad Magazine.

Infosys on Feb. 24 reported completing a major data modernization program for CSX that was “built using Infosys Topaz, an AI-first set of services, solutions and platforms using generative AI technologies, Microsoft Fabric, and Microsoft Purview.”

Infosys said it led the end-to-end modernization effort, consolidating CSX’s “fragmented data landscape into a unified cloud-native platform.” The initiative replaced legacy systems with “a single, governed data environment designed to improve decision-making, accelerate reporting and reduce operational costs,” the company explained. “Automated metadata governance was achieved across 28 domains with 170-plus data products created for adoption with AI accelerators, self-serve analytics, and Azure monitoring.”

Through this modernization, CSX achieved “significant annual infrastructure savings and established a foundation for predictive analytics, logistics optimization and enterprise-wide operational intelligence,” according to Infosys, which noted that the initiative was supported through its long-standing collaboration with Microsoft, including joint participation in design and architecture planning and early access to Microsoft Fabric features.

“Collaborating with Infosys Topaz and Microsoft has enabled CSX to fundamentally transform our data landscape,” said John Maio, AVP, Enterprise Data and Analytics for CSX. “By modernizing our reporting and analytics platform with Microsoft Fabric, we’ve consolidated more than 50,000 legacy reports into just 1,200 actionable insights, empowering our teams with real-time intelligence and AI-driven decision-making. This transformation not only saved us thousands of hours through automation but also laid the foundation for a data-driven culture across our organization. We’re now equipped to unlock new opportunities in predictive maintenance, logistics optimization and operational efficiency—truly Making Data Talk® for CSX.”

“CSX’s journey with Infosys Topaz exemplifies the power of Microsoft Fabric to unify and modernize enterprise data estates at scale,” noted Arun Ulag, President, Azure Data, at Microsoft. “By leveraging Microsoft Fabric’s intelligent, agentic data platform and robust governance capabilities, CSX has accelerated time-to-insight and enabled real-time analytics across critical business domains. We’re proud to see how our collaboration is helping CSX become AI-ready, driving measurable business impact and setting a new benchmark for innovation in transportation and logistics.”

“Our strategic collaboration with CSX and Microsoft reflects Infosys’ commitment to helping enterprises become AI-first,” added Karmesh Vaswani, EVP and Global Head, Consumer, Retail and Logistics for Infosys. “By leveraging Microsoft Fabric and our Infosys Topaz offerings, we delivered a unified, governed data platform that empowers CSX to anticipate disruptions, optimize operations, elevate customer experience and improve employee productivity. This transformation demonstrates how data and AI create measurable business impact at scale.”

• For CSX, $670MM Power Upgrade Order
• CSX Trains Thousands of First Responders in 2025 (part of Class I Briefs)
• CSX Spotlights its AESS System (part of Class I Briefs)

Congratulations to the Winnipeg, Manitoba, yard for winning Terminal of the Year!

In 2025, the Winnipeg Terminal delivered strong and consistent safety and operational performance.

The impressive commitment to safety, service, and efficiency earned the team this important… pic.twitter.com/iSbV8nnkJS

CPKC on Feb. 24 celebrated its Winnipeg, Manitoba, yard as Terminal of the Year with special social media posts that included video tributes (see above).

“At a vital junction where railroaders manage traffic from across the network, the Winnipeg Terminal is an important location that offers unique services, including building and repairing End of Train Units,” the Class I reported. “In 2025, they delivered strong and consistent safety and operational performance. The impressive commitment to safety, service, and efficiency earned the team this recognition.”

According to CPKC, the Terminal of the Year award is one of its CEO Awards for Excellence, “marking an exemplary operational accomplishment.”

• CPKC: ‘Exceptional Execution in Challenging Market’
• CPKC, NS Advance Locomotive Modernizations

NS has extended its partnership with Georgia Tech’s ATDC, committing $250,000 per year over the next two years to “continue powering ATDC’s Sustainability Tech vertical,” the railroad reported Feb. 26.

“Launched in 2023 with initial support from Norfolk Southern, the ATDC Sustainability Tech vertical has become one of the fastest growing and largest verticals at ATDC,” NS said. “Over the past three years, the program has supported more than 35 sustainability focused portfolio companies and engaged additional startups across ATDC’s broader portfolio. Today, the vertical comprises 29 active companies spanning industries such as renewable energy, circular economy technologies, energy efficiency, water tech, ag tech, and climate data solutions.”

According to NS, its partnership with Georgia Tech’s ATDC:

• “Supports one-on-one startup coaching, sustainability focused programming, and specialized resources designed to guide founders from ideation through commercialization.
• “Builds a pipeline of innovators across Georgia.
• “Enhances the state’s economy.”

In 2024, sustainability portfolio companies generated more than $15 million in revenue and created or saved 114 jobs, NS reported. The program, it continued, “has also produced two acquisitions, including ClimeCo’s 2023 acquisition of Ampliphi, which enables companies to combat plastic pollution, and Quest Renewables, a solar canopy solution provider that was acquired by Bravo in 2023.”

“ATDC remains at the forefront of cleantech innovation in Georgia,” said Josh Raglin, Chief Sustainability Officer for NS. “Norfolk Southern and ATDC share a clear vision for developing and deploying technology to help businesses meet their sustainability goals, which is why extending this partnership is so meaningful.”

“We are so pleased to continue our partnership with Norfolk Southern for another two years to support our sustainability technology vertical which spans critical sectors that work to improve climate sustainability, energy resiliency, and other research areas that have a tangible impact on human wellbeing,” added John Avery, Director of ATDC. “With their support and partnership, we plan to build an even bigger pipeline of founders who are laser focused on creating meaningful business that address today’s challenges.”

• UP-NS Release Merger-Application Refiling Date
• STB Rejection of UP-NS Merger: A Delay, Not a Judgment
• NS 2025: $7.7B in Industrial Development
• NS: ‘Reliable Service, Measurable Safety Gains’
• NS Issues 2025 Safety Report

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

Amtrak on Feb. 26 announced a revised long-distance fleet replacement strategy that “prioritizes fleet standardization, broadens competition among potential carbuilders, reduces program risk, and accelerates the replacement of its aging passenger cars.” All long-distance routes will transition to a “universal single-level fleet,” replacing today’s mix of bi-level and single-level equipment, according to “America’s Railroad.”

“Today’s announcement reflects extensive analysis of the challenges associated with operating a hybrid fleet,” Amtrak said. “It also incorporates industry feedback received during the previous request for proposals on new bi-level trains, along with findings from a joint Amtrak-Federal Railroad Administration review that identified the most effective path forward.”

Amtrak said it will soon issue a formal request for suppliers to bid on the new long-distance fleet replacement contract and cancel the bi-level procurement. Once a selection is made, Amtrak said it will work with the selected car builder to finalize the delivery schedule to replace its aging long-distance fleet.

Amtrak in late 2022 sent a Request For Information to potential suppliers “defining and describing the scope of the railroad’s overnight train fleet,” including Superliner I and II, Viewliner I and II and Amfleet II railcars, and solicited input from manufacturers regarding the replacement of this equipment. Multiple suppliers responded in early 2023. Later that year, the railroad issued a Request for Proposals, and projected that fleet deliveries would begin in the early 2030s.

Many of Amtrak’s current long-distance railcars were delivered more than 40 years ago. The railroad said it will continue to evaluate the condition of the existing fleet, assess the remaining service life, and “determine any life extension measures necessary to ensure safe and reliable operations until the new long-distance fleet enters service.”

“This new approach will deliver a more consistent and accessible customer experience across the Amtrak network while maintaining our commitment to introduce the first new long-distance cars in the early 2030s,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said. “Thanks to support from FRA Administrator David Fink and the entire Federal Railroad Administration team, Amtrak’s long-distance fleet replacement is moving forward more effectively and efficiently than originally planned.”

“With these new cars, Amtrak will finally replace its aging fleet and provide American travelers with the world class rail service they deserve, helping usher in Secretary [Sean] Duffy’s vision for a new Golden Age of travel,” U.S. Deputy Transportation Secretary Steve Bradbury said. “These new cars won’t just benefit American train passengers, but workers too by supporting good paying domestic manufacturing jobs.”

“The FRA stands ready to work with Amtrak on behalf of [POTUS 47] and Transportation Secretary Duffy to update Amtrak’s aging passenger rail fleet with modern American made cars,” FRA Administrator David Fink said.

“These cars have carried the country for more than 40 years,” Rail Passengers Association President and CEO Jim Mathews added. “It’s long-past time to replace them. Issuing this new Request for Proposals is about not only reliability for passengers but about continuing the steady rebuilding of America’s passenger-rail manufacturing base that we’ve seen with the Airo fleet and the NextGen Acela. When we maintain that momentum, we don’t just buy trains: we rebuild capability and set the stage for creating the world-class service all of us want and that American passengers deserve.”

The new strategy follows a 2024 report by Amtrak’s internal yet independent Office of Inspector General on Phase 1 (of four) of the railroad’s Long Distance Fleet Replacement program, defining the $7 billion initiative as “high risk” and identifying “shortcomings” that could create additional delays and cost increases.

According to Amtrak, its new strategy for procuring new long-distance passenger cars represents one piece of its broader systemwide fleet modernization program. It continues to receive new Siemens ALC-42 locomotives for long-distance service, with 79 of 125 units delivered to date. Also, new NextGen Acela trains from Alstom launched last fall, and the new Airo fleet from Siemens Mobility will begin service on Amtrak Cascades this year, followed by the Northeast Regional and other short- and mid-distance routes in the coming years.

• Amtrak 2025: The Rest of the Story
• Multiple Factors Impacting Amtrak Long-Distance Trains
• Amtrak Cancellations: More Than Just ‘Weather’
• Amtrak ‘High Risk’ Long Distance Fleet Replacement Program: Off the Rails?
• Amtrak OIG: Long Distance Fleet Replacement Program ‘High Risk’
• Amtrak Takes First Step to Re-Equip Long-Distance Network
• Amtrak Issues RFP to Replace Long-Distance Fleet
• Ending a 50-Year Embargo in the FRA Amtrak Long-Distance Study
• Amtrak Applies for FRA Grants to Upgrade Long-Distance Network, NEC Infrastructure
• Amtrak Takes First Step to Re-Equip Long-Distance Network
• FRA Kicks Off Amtrak Daily Long-Distance Service Study
• Amtrak Debuts Long-Distance Train Improvements

SEPTA on Feb. 24  rolled out its newest CBTC digital signaling system upgrade on the Media–Sharon Hill Line, according to Hitachi Rail, which provided the system that will help modernize one of the last remaining interurban trolley systems in the United States.

The upgrade will serve approximately 11.9 miles of light‑rail trolley service from the 69th Street Transportation Center to communities in Media and Sharon Hill. The system will utilize overhead electrification and trolley‑gauge tracks, while also replacing aging signal systems, Hitachi Rail said. The supplier in May 2024 completed its $1.8 billion acquisition of Thales’ Ground Transportation Systems business, which included the SelTrac CBTC system. Hitachi Rail systems also include those of such predecessor companies as Union Switch & Signal and Ansaldo STS.

According to Hitachi Rail, the upgraded SelTrac technology used on the Media–Sharon Hill Line:

• Provides “higher system capacity with improved performance state-of-the art data analytics, lower capital investment and lifecycle costs, and flexible and scalable architecture.”
• Offers “new automatic train protection and automatic train supervision technology, designed to enforce operational speed limits and prevent unsafe train movements for real‑time monitoring.”
• Offers built-in wayside transponders and onboard sensors that are equipped with “high‑resolution vehicle location, supporting vital processes and ensuring reliable on-board operations.”

“This modern upgrade to SEPTA’s trolley system is a testament to Pennsylvania’s continued investment in transportation revitalization,” said Joseph Pozza, President of Hitachi Rail in the USA. “Our advanced technology will help to deliver modern and reliable onboard operations, that will meet passenger needs for decades to come. Our partnership with SEPTA and the state of Pennsylvania is yet another example of Hitachi Rail’s commitment to advancing transportation across the United States.”

Massimo Esposito, Senior Director, Technology Management at Hitachi Rail in North America, added: “Hitachi’s state-of-the-art SelTrac technology will truly aid in revolutionizing operations for SEPTA’s Media -Sharon Hill line – enhancing passenger experience, ensuring reliable journeys for daily passengers from start to finish.”

• Hitachi Rail Invests C$30MM in New Canadian Headquarters
• From Expo 86 to Everyday Essential: SkyTrain Marks 40 Years
• Hitachi Rail Releases 2025 Sustainability Statement
• Hitachi Rail Adopts New NVIDIA IGX Thor Solution for Real-Time AI
• Hitachi Opens $100MM ‘Digital’ Hagerstown Plant
• Hitachi Rail Acquires Omnicom
• SFMTA Taps WSP-PGH Wong JV for CBTC
• SelTrac G9 Development Under Way

The post Passenger Rail News: Amtrak, SEPTA appeared first on Railway Age.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), in coordination with the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) under a consortium framework, on Feb. 25 issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for new battery electric and low-emissions locomotives.

The procurement, the MBTA says, “advances the agency’s broader efforts to modernize its rail fleet and position Regional Rail for long-term improvement.” An award contract is planned for summer 2026.

For riders and communities, the new locomotives “will bring clear, measurable improvements to Regional Rail service,” the agency said. “Battery-electric locomotives produce zero tailpipe emissions and are significantly quieter than traditional diesel trains, improving air quality and reducing noise along rail corridors. By replacing aging equipment that is more prone to mechanical failures, the new trains will also help reduce delays and improve day-to-day reliability. Battery-electric locomotives accelerate faster than diesel trains, supporting smoother trips, more consistent schedules and the potential for more frequent service on key lines.”

The MBTA is leading the joint procurement of battery-electric locomotives and Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives “to ensure reliable service for current and future passengers.” The T will procure 10 battery-electric locomotives for initial deployment on the Providence Line, which has existing electric power infrastructure, and 10 Tier-4, low-emissions diesel locomotives for lines without electric infrastructure. 

Both locomotive types, the MBTA says, “will significantly reduce emissions, noise and vibrations for passengers and abutters.” This procurement includes options for up to 50 additional locomotives to support future expansion of Regional Rail modernization, as funding and infrastructure allow.

“A modernized and reliable regional rail system has been talked about for a long time, and now we are taking action with this significant first step of procuring battery-electric locomotives,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “Under the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s leadership and with the strong support of the Legislature, investments in transit are making this procurement possible. Critical to not only continuing to deliver the levels of service needed today, this procurement also helps us build a system that can meet the needs of future generations. Supported by a determined MBTA workforce, the new locomotives will enhance the rider experience and help bring the Commonwealth closer to reaching climate, accessibility, and economic development goals.” 

“This joint procurement represents regional partnership in action,” said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “By working together, we are strengthening our individual transit systems while reinforcing the larger, interconnected transportation network along the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.”

The procurement builds on recent and ongoing investments to modernize Regional Rail service, including:

• “Fairmount Line Battery-Electric Service: Battery electric trains and related facilities and power infrastructure will support bidirectional service every 20 minutes on the Fairmount Line. 
• “Bi-level Coach Procurement: The MBTA is procuring 80 new bi-level coaches to replace the single level cars currently in service. This $395 million investment will increase capacity, improve rider comfort, and support a more reliable fleet.” 

The post MBTA Issues RFP for New Battery Electric, Low-Emissions Locomotives appeared first on Railway Age.

The Port of Long Beach (POLB) on Feb. 25 reported kicking off 2026 with its “second-busiest” January on record. Cargo volume declined 11% from January 2025—the Port’s best January and second-busiest month in its 115-year history—following a “record-setting 9.9 million TEUs [Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units] moved in 2025, when uncertainty prompted shippers to move goods before tariffs and reciprocal tariffs were implemented last spring,” POLB said.

Dockworkers and terminal operators moved 847,765 TEUs of cargo containers last month; imports came in at 409,818 TEUs, down 13.1%; and exports were 99,478 TEUs, up 0.8%, according to POLB. Empty containers moving through the Port were down 11.5% to 338,470 TEUs.

“We are leading the nation in trade, and providing a safe harbor in the sea of tariff and trade uncertainty for our customers and the goods movement industry,” POLB CEO Dr. Noel Hacegaba said (watch his Feb. 25 media briefing above). “No matter what happens with cargo volume, the Port of Long Beach has the capacity, infrastructure, and workforce to move goods quickly, efficiently, and reliably.”

“Our cargo numbers show the Port of Long Beach continues to be the ‘port of choice’ for our customers,” added Long Beach Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna. “We are well on our way to another busy year for cargo.”

Hacegaba “anticipates continued uncertainty following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling last week declaring two-thirds of tariffs imposed last year under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA, unconstitutional,” according to POLB.

“While this decision ruled on the legality of the IEEPA tariffs, it did little to remove the uncertainty we’ve seen—and continue to see—across the global supply chain,” Hacegaba said. “Our customers are seeking clarity on whether tariffs already paid will be refunded, and consumers are seeking relief from higher prices.”

Hacegaba on Jan. 15 gave his first State of the Port address, following the retirement of Mario Cordero, and he projected that POLB will move 20 million containers annually by 2050. He noted that the $1.8 billion Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility project is on track for completion in 2032. Aimed at tripling the volume of cargo moved by on-dock rail to 4.7 million TEUs, the project will help move cargo containers from ships to trains in less than 24 hours and improve connectivity with inland destinations.

The ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles in 2025 extended their agreement with Anacostia Rail Holdings’ Pacific Harbor Line to provide railroad operating and maintenance services within the San Pedro Bay ports complex. Union Pacific and BNSF move cargo in and out of the complex.

For complete POLB cargo statistics, click here.

• Port of Los Angeles: January Cargo ‘Eases’ Compared to ‘Elevated’ 2025 Levels
• POLB: Cargo Volumes ‘Steady’ Through October
• POLB Experiences Cargo Dip in September
• POLB: Second-Busiest August on Record
• POLB Releases Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility Draft Supplemental Study
• For Ports of LA, Long Beach, ‘Record’ July Cargo
• Jacobs Tapped for POLB Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility

The post POLB Logs ‘Second-Busiest’ January Amid ‘Economic Uncertainty’ appeared first on Railway Age.

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) will present Michigan-based Lake State Railway Company (LSRC) with the 2026 Green Spark Award for environmental achievement at its annual conference, to be held April 12-14 in Minneapolis. 

The ASLRRA Green Spark Award—formerly known as the Environmental Award—honors “an outstanding short line railroad that demonstrates exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability and innovation,” according to the Association.

“Overall, LSRC’s accomplishments, both big and small, demonstrate a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations without compromising service and growth,” ASLRRA reported in the Feb. 25 edition of its Views & News email newsletter. “Its effort truly shows size is no barrier to impact.”

The Association noted that it is a challenge for small railroads to replace older locomotives—generally a primary source of their emissions and expensive to replace—and to improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption and cost. But LSRC “took a huge leap forward in this area,” with the recent purchase of four SD70ACe-T4 locomotives from Progress Rail, it said. The acquisition allowed LSRC to retire five locomotives that were more than 40 years old, “transforming the railroad’s fleet into one of the youngest and most environmentally friendly in the short line industry,” according to the Association.

Along with being more fuel efficient, these new Tier 4 units, which are also LSRC’s first AC traction locomotives, will enable the railroad to reduce the total number of locomotives needed on several key long-haul routes.

LSRC, Railway Age’s 2018 Short Line of the Year and 2021 Regional of the Year, has taken other steps to reduce its environmental impact, according to ASLRRA. Among them:

• “LSRC is continually adding idle-reduction technology to its fleet, installing automatic engine shut down/start up systems (AESS), auxiliary power units (APUs) and plug-in technology”—all of which, ASLRRA noted, help reduce fuel and engine maintenance costs, extend engine life, and decrease emissions.
• LSRC “works to take care of its locomotives in an efficient way, keeping its large locomotive facility warm during the winter by using a heating system powered by the railroad’s waste oil.”
• “LSRC has a proactive recycling program for all materials and disposes of used railroad ties at a cogeneration facility, also known as a combined heat and power plant, which converts biomass and other organic waste into energy.”
• LSRC “uses best practices and proactively manages waste and pollution via third-party consultants and a full-time properties manager.”
• LSRC is “active in national environmental initiatives, in part as a member of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Program”; it is “one of only a handful of ASLRRA members to be a part of the program independent of a large holding company.”
• LSRC Chief Mechanical Officer Roger Fuehring has been working “with the EPA to write regulatory compliance guides for railroads,” and “also advised development of current and potential emissions regulations to help ensure they are effective and realistic for small business railroads.”

LRRC operates on a route structure of approximately 375 track-miles with six connecting interchanges. The company maintains headquarters and shop facilities in Saginaw and terminals in Plymouth, Flint, Midland, Bay City, Gaylord and Alpena. Annual freight volume is approximately 60,000 carloads serving a diversified mix of end markets, among them automotive, aggregates, cement, agriculture, forest products, metals and chemicals. Since 2022, LSRC has been owned by Antin Infrastructure Partners, a private equity firm focused on infrastructure investments in Europe and North America, with offices in New York, London and Paris.

• LSRC Debuts Pere Marquette Heritage Locomotive
• IHR, LSRC, Pan Am, R.J. Corman Earn ASLRRA Business Development Awards

The post LSRC to Receive ASLRRA’s Environment Achievement Award appeared first on Railway Age.

The committee will consist of 25 members representing the FRA’s major stakeholder groups, such as railroads, labor organizations, suppliers, manufacturers and others. The group provides information, advice and recommendations on rail safety issues to the secretary of transportation and FRA administrator.

Individuals can nominate themselves or be nominated by another individual or organization. Packages must include a letter of support, short biography and affirmative statement saying why the nominee’s organization should be considered for RSAC membership. All materials combined should be two pages or less. They can be submitted via online portal or by mail or hand delivery. Nominations are due March 26.

RSAC, which was first created in 1996, was scrapped in August 2025 by the FRA only to be restored less than six months later. A Jan. 13 Federal Register notice said RSAC’s “charter renewal will be effective for two years.”

The post FRA Opens Nomination Period for RSAC appeared first on Railway Age.

Cando Rail & Terminals will acquire Savage Enterprises in a deal that will add 36 railcar storage and transload facilities, three short line railroads, and 80 first and last mile rail service operations to the rapidly-growing Canadian switching and terminal railroad. The transaction requires regulatory approval, though, as Cando and Savage mention, there is no overlap in their current networks. 

Savage Rail is Cando’s fourth major acquisition in just two years, and follows its recent purchase of Channelview Terminal in Houston. 

“The industrial rail environment is fundamentally different than a decade ago – customer supply chains are increasingly continental, and they choose partners that can support their evolving needs with greater reach and efficiency. Bringing Cando and Savage Rail together will create the leading integrated rail terminal and infrastructure company in North America to meet these needs and beyond,” said Brian Cornick, President & CEO of Cando Rail & Terminals. “By combining two highly complementary teams and capabilities with Cando’s strong financial profile, we’re creating a stronger, more resilient platform to support our customers, team members, and communities today and invest for the long term. We are excited to welcome the Savage Rail team to the Cando family.”

Perhaps the most notable part of the acquisition is Savage’s Utah short lines, including the Savage Bingham & Garfield Railroad Company and Savage Tooele Railroad. 

Cando headquarters will remain in Winnipeg, but it will establish a U.S. headquarters in Salt Lake City. —Justin Franz 

The post Cando to Acquire Savage Rail appeared first on Railfan & Railroad Magazine.

The CSX Mechanical department has introduced its first owned and operated locomotive service truck in the Toledo Zone in Ohio (watch video above). The mobile unit allows the Class I to service locomotives directly on the line of road, eliminating the need to send them to a central service center.

“This approach has transformed routine engine servicing, enabling mechanical employees to complete tasks in the field in about an hour,” CSX said. “By avoiding the time-consuming process of routing locomotives to a shop, CSX has significantly reduced downtime and improved productivity.”

The benefits extend beyond efficiency, according to the railroad. Previously operated by a contractor, the truck is now staffed by Toledo Zone mechanical employees, supporting 16 line of road locations and the Northwest Ohio terminal. This insourcing effort has “enhanced service flexibility and generated millions of dollars in annualized savings across the CSX network,” the railroad said.

“Employee ingenuity played a key role in the truck’s success,” CSX reported. “Mechanical employees at the North Baltimore yard redesigned the truck’s internal layout, making it safer and more efficient. The modifications eliminated the need to climb into the vehicle to access pumps and valves, reduced the truck’s overall weight, and removed the requirement for a CDL operator or hazmat endorsement.”

CSX machinist Sean Killian commented: “This truck changed the way our team operates. We control when the engines are serviced. Everything is going out more on time, and we can focus on working to get these engines down the track efficiently.”

According to the railroad, the Transportation team has also embraced the change, with Toledo Zone mechanical leaders reporting positive feedback on improved coordination and operational flexibility.

• For CSX, $670MM Power Upgrade Order
• CSX Trains Thousands of First Responders in 2025 (part of Class I Briefs)
• CSX Spotlights its AESS System (part of Class I Briefs)

We’re thrilled to partner with @RAHFoundation & CK Hui Heart Centre to strengthen Western Canada’s leading heart hospital! As this year’s @cpkcwomensopen community charity partner, CK Hui Heart Centre will use funds to improve patient care. #CPKCHasHeart https://t.co/YTzGkQL3LT

The Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation (RAHF) on Feb. 23 announced that its CK Hui Heart Center has been selected as the community partner for the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open, to be held at the Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alberta from Aug. 19-23, 2026.

As the community charity partner, funds raised through the CPKC Women’s Open this year will support the CK Hui Heart Center, which provides specialized cardiac care to patients from across Alberta and Western Canada. CPKC will be matching donations up to a total of C$250,000.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation and the CK Hui Heart Center to strengthen Western Canada’s leading heart hospital,” said Chad Becker, CPKC Chief of Staff. “As this year’s community partner for the CPKC Women’s Open, CK Hui Heart Center will use the funds to purchase vital equipment, enabling them to double the number of valve replacement procedures and significantly improve patient care.”

“Minimally invasive cardiac procedures have transformed how we care for patients,” noted Dr. Ben Tyrrell, Chief of Cardiology at the CK Hui Heart Center. “These procedures mean less trauma, faster recovery, and better outcomes. That’s especially important for women, who on average face more complications and longer recoveries after traditional open-heart surgery. With this support, we can help more patients receive life-saving care sooner.”

On Feb. 2, CPKC announced that Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation was chosen as the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open charity partner with the goal of raising more than C$3.9 million to support their pediatric cardiac program.

In 2025, CPKC raised C$4.5 million for cardiac healthcare at the CPKC Women’s Open; it presented the funds to MacKids, the arm of Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation dedicated to fundraising for McMaster Children’s Hospital (C$4 million), and to Trillium Health Partners (C$502,000).

• CPKC: ‘Exceptional Execution in Challenging Market’
• CPKC, NS Advance Locomotive Modernizations

UP’s Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, is readying for the western leg of its coast‑to‑coast tour to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with 27 whistle-stops and four public display days scheduled during its journey.

“The tour honors the crucial role railroads have played in building and unifying America while highlighting more than a century of industry innovation,” UP reported Feb. 24 during its whistle-stop announcement. “Since 1862, when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Pacific Railway Act and created Union Pacific, railroads have connected the nation, driven industrial growth and helped to spark new industries.”

The Big Boy will leave its home base in Cheyenne, Wyo., on March 29, traveling across Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, where it will stop near historic Mile 0, the site where Central Pacific Railroad laid the first rail ties for the transcontinental railroad in 1863 (see map above).

Whistle-stops, which last generally 15 to 30 minutes, will take place in:

Wyoming

• March 29 – Laramie
• March 29 – Medicine Bow
• March 30 – Wamsutter
• March 31 – Rock Springs
• April 1 – Green River
• April 21 – Green River
• April 23 – Point of Rocks
• April 23 – Wamsutter
• April 24 – Medicine Bow
• April 24 – Laramie

Utah

• April 2 – Morgan
• April 2 – Salt Lake City
• April 20 – Morgan

Nevada

• April 4 – Wells
• April 6 – Carlin
• April 6 – Battle Mountain
• April 7 – Gerlach
• April 14 – Lovelock
• April 15 – Carlin
• April 15 – Elko
• April 17 – Wells
• April 17 – Montello

California

• April 9 – Oroville
• April 9 – Marysville
• April 9 – Lincoln
• April 12 – Colfax
• April 12 – Truckee

Public display days will be held in Roseville, Calif., on April 10-11 and in Ogden, Utah, on April 18-19. Display days offer an up‑close look at this 1.2‑million‑pound locomotive, along with the “Experience the Union Pacific” railcar, described as an immersive walk-through exhibit that highlights American railroading.

In addition to public stops, UP employees and their families will be invited along the route for special family-day events. UP noted that there will not be any passenger excursions offered on the western leg of the tour.

Details for tour’s eastern leg will be released later, according to UP.

ALCO manufactured 25 Big Boys for UP, 20 in 1941 and five in 1944, to haul heavy freight during World War II. They saw service until their fires were dropped for the last time in 1961. Eight survived; UP re-acquired No. 4014 in 2013 from the RailGiants Museum in Pomona, Calif., and meticulously restored her to operating condition. No. 4014 returned to service in 2019 and is the only functioning Big Boy.

Railway Age reported on the 1941 debut with an extensive technical article (download below).

• UP: Big Boy, Lincoln Locomotive Unite for Tour
• Big Boy to Make Two Whistle-Stops in Colorado During Limited 2025 Excursion
• Once in a Lifetime: UP Honors Four Employees With Big Boy Ride-Along
• Big Boy Upgraded With Self-Contained PTC
• Railway Age, October 4, 1941: UP’s “Big Boy” debuts
• Big Boy 4014 is back: UP restores, runs iconic train
• UP: A return to steam for Big Boy 4014

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

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), in partnership with Maryland Transit Administration (MTA),  is seeking proposals from qualified manufacturers for the procurement of new diesel and battery electric locomotives. This procurement supports fleet modernization efforts and advances the Authorities’ transition toward cleaner, more efficient propulsion technologies.

Key Details:

• Scope includes the design, manufacture, testing, and delivery of new diesel and battery electric locomotives, along with associated technical support and documentation. 
• Interested firms must demonstrate prior experience in locomotive manufacturing, integration of advanced propulsion systems, and the successful delivery of complex rail vehicle programs.
• Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the requirements outlined in the RFP by June 10th, 2026, at 2:00 PM EDT.

Interested firms can access the full RFP document at the Commonwealth of Massachusetts bid platform: https://www.commbuys.com – there is no cost for suppliers, though registration is required.

The URL for the RFP is – https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sda?docId=BD-26-1206-40000-40000-125513&external=true&parentUrl=close

The post Request for Proposals (RFP) No. 187F-25: Procurement of New Diesel and Battery Electric Locomotives appeared first on Railway Age.

Notice to interested parties: The MBTA is seeking companies to participate in an upcoming RFP.

If you are a manufacturer or distributor that can provide fixed-place systems that apply materials directly to the rail, the MBTA would like to hear from you.

All interested parties should contact Steven Pelczar at spelczar@mbta.com.

Companies that respond will be notified of the RFP issue date, which will be posted on the Massachusetts e-procurement platform – COMMBUYs.

The post MBTA – Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority – Traction Gel Applicator Systems to improve rail traction and friction management appeared first on Railway Age.

Results for Week 6 were similar. Total U.S. rail traffic rose 6.2% for the week ending Feb. 14, 2026.

U.S. Class I railroads hauled 507,712 carloads and intermodal units for the week ending Feb. 21, 2026, according to the AAR. Total carloads came in at 227,124 up 17.6%, and intermodal volume was 280,588 containers and trailers, up 5.8% from the same week last year.

For the week ending Feb. 21, 2026, nine of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2025. They included coal, up 10,972 carloads, to 58,828; grain, up 8,121 carloads, to 24,463; and nonmetallic minerals, up 5,365 carloads, to 28,181. One commodity group posted a decrease compared with the same week in 2025: forest products, down 137 carloads, to 8,242.

For the first seven weeks of 2026, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 1,524,373 carloads, up 5.3% from the same point last year; and 1,912,503 intermodal units, down 0.8% from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first seven weeks of 2026 was 3,436,876 carloads and intermodal units, an increase of 1.8% compared to last year.

North American rail volume for the week ending February 21, 2026, on nine reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 330,836 carloads, up 15.6% compared with the same week last year, and 364,182 intermodal units, up 9.3% compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 695,018 carloads and intermodal units, up 12.2%. North American rail volume for the first seven weeks of 2026 was 4,730,362 carloads and intermodal units, up 2.6% compared with 2025.

For the week ending Feb. 21, 2026, Canadian railroads reported 90,075 carloads, an increase of 14.0%, and 68,824 intermodal units, an increase of 22.8% compared with the same week in 2025. For the first seven weeks of this year, they reported cumulative rail traffic volume of 1,106,192 carloads, containers, and trailers, up 2.0%.

Mexican railroads reported 13,637 carloads for the week ending Feb. 21, 2026, down 2.8% from the prior-year period, and 14,770 intermodal units, up 24.5%. Their cumulative volume for the first seven weeks of 2026 was 187,294 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 23.5% from the same point last year.

The post Rail Traffic Uptick Continues for Week 7 appeared first on Railway Age.

BART ridership growth is starting the new year on a positive note, with January counts showing continued growth, including several weekdays that surpassed 200,000 trips, the agency recently reported. While ridership continues to bounce back, BART says it is “still far off from its pre-pandemic ridership, largely due to hybrid work patterns.”

The January 2026 Monthly Ridership Snapshot (download below) reports nearly 4.6 million paid exits, a 10.7% increase compared with January 2025. Average weekday ridership reached 182,487 trips, “reflecting consistent demand and building on the gradual recovery seen over the past years.”

BART also saw significant ridership increases during major events, including on Jan. 17 for the Bob Weir public memorial at Civic Center and the TWICE concert at the Oakland Arena, for which BART ran longer trains. 

• Total exits: 4.6 million
• Average weekday: 182,487
• Year-over-year growth: +10.7%
• Busiest day: Jan. 28 with 207,343 trips

Tap and Ride usage grew 15.5% in January compared to December, as more riders used contactless bank cards or mobile wallets to pay at the fare gates. In all, 14% of total BART trips were taken using Tap and Ride in January. 

Usage of Clipper START, the 50% fare discount for low-income riders, rose 32.6% year over year in January. 

Even with encouraging ridership gains, fare revenue is not enough on its own to stabilize BART’s finances, the agency noted. “Like many transit agencies nationwide, BART faces a structural budget deficit as remote and hybrid work patterns reduce weekday commute trips, which is historically the system’s largest source of fare revenue. While individual riders have returned to BART, they are riding less frequently.”

The MBTA on Feb. 24 announced that critical signal modernization work is taking place on the Red Line at Columbia Junction near JFK/UMass station while crews complete testing and cutover to the new, digital signaling system in this area.

This work, the MBTA says, “will bring important upgrades that will strengthen Red Line service reliability for riders, providing the ability to route trains more quickly, turn trains around faster, and recover from unplanned disruptions more efficiently.” To accomplish this work, four phases of temporary evening service changes will begin on Feb. 28 and continue through April. 

“The long-overdue work at Columbia Junction completes signal updates that should have been accomplished after the 2019 Red Line derailment. We’re taking the time now to do the work correctly, modernize the system, and improve the Red Line’s reliability long-term,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “By doing this work in a phased evening approach instead of a full shutdown, we’re also delivering essential improvements while minimizing disruption for riders. I thank riders for their patience while we accomplish this critical work.”

Columbia Junction is the complex area of track just north of JFK/UMass that merges the Ashmont and Braintree branches and connects the Red Line’s main passenger track to the Cabot Yard Maintenance Facility where the majority of the Red Line fleet is stored and maintained. 

The signal system in this area was significantly damaged following the major derailment of a Red Line train in 2019. Initial repairs restored service at that time, but signal and switch operations have continued to be limited, according to the MBTA. The work taking place beginning Feb. 28, which could have been completed in 2019, fully corrects these issues, restoring full system functionality. “Operations will have the ability to quickly reroute trains as needed, turn trains around faster, and quickly recover after unplanned service changes, ultimately providing a better transit experience for riders, the agency said. The work also follows through on the MBTA’s commitment to complete major signal upgrades on the Orange and Red lines prior to the FIFA World Cup matches this summer. 

Testing of the new system began in mid-February. More than 100 track circuits are within the Columbia Junction area, and most track circuits have 12 tests that need to be performed. With more than 1,200 tests to complete during this phase of the project, the MBTA says it is “closely monitoring, analyzing, and documenting the results of each test, understanding that adjustments will need to be made as the work progresses.”

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