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by Otto M. Vondrak/photos as noted

Five years after global pandemic restrictions decimated ridership for transit agencies across the country, MTA Metro-North Railroad is experiencing many positive signs of ridership recovery while new locomotives and rolling stock are arriving to help refresh the fleet and meet the demands of a new economy. Commuter agencies across the country are seeing signs of improvement, with Boston’s Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority coming closest to pre-pandemic ridership levels, consistently exceeding 90 percent in 2024. This past summer, Florida’s Tri-Rail reported 4.5 million riders, surpassing 2019’s record ridership of 4.4 million. Others like Metrolink in California report only 65 percent recovery as Los Angelinos are slower to return to the office full-time.

A subsidiary of New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority established in 1983, Metro-North is the nation’s second-busiest passenger carrier by volume, reporting more than 60 million riders in 2024. While this amounts to a roughly 22 percent shortfall against 2019 totals of 86.6 million riders, trends in 2025 point to steady climbs in ridership totals. Some single-day and monthly records in 2025 are hitting new post-pandemic highs, showing strong momentum.

In the midst of this positive growth, MTA leadership selected Justin Vonashek to become Metro-North’s seventh president, taking office this past April. He came to Metro-North in 2016 as Vice President of System Safety, and was later promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations in 2020. In 2023, he was named Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, where he managed all aspects of the railroad’s operations.

Vonashek is no stranger to trains and transit. Growing up in Chicago and graduating from Illinois Institute of Technology, he joined Metra in 2005 as a Transportation Specialist. He quickly rose through the ranks in a variety of roles at the nation’s third-busiest carrier as transportation specialist, corporate trainmaster and manager of schedules and service. During his time at Metra, he served as the liaison with Union Pacific and BNSF Railway, developed a schedule of Saturday service for the Southwest Service (former Wabash route between Chicago and Manhattan, Ill.), and also set up special event service for White Sox home games at 35th Street “Lou” Jones Station on the Rock Island District. He also represented Metra on the FRA Rail Safety Advisory Committee, the Association of American Railroads’ Locomotive Committee, as well as the American Public Transportation Association’s Passenger Rail Equipment Safety Standards Committee. It’s no wonder that Don Orseno, then Metra’s Interim Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, nominated Vonashek as one of Progressive Railroading’s “Rising Stars” in 2013. “When I think of future leaders in the industry, I think of Justin Vonashek,” he said.

Vonashek moved over to Keolis in 2014, where he was named Chief Safety, Security, Emergency Preparedness and Regulatory Compliance Officer as the contractor prepared to take over operation of MBTA’s commuter rail operations that year. It was there that he continued his safety campaigns, including promoting the use of the Confidential Close-Call Reporting System (C3RS), which allows employees to anonymously report a safety problem or close-call event to a third party. It was this focus on safety and regulatory compliance that he brought to Metro-North when he first came on board in 2016. In an exclusive sit-down with the new Metro-North president, Railfan & Railroad asked Vonashek observed from his time at Metra, MBTA, and Metro-North, “While each railroad had its own specific challenges, the common thread is each one is focused on safety.”

Of course, the railroad’s most visible metric is daily ridership, which has trended upward in recent years as workers return to the office and discretionary travel picks up for entertainment and events. “This past week [last week of September], we broke records for best daily ridership,” while the railroad currently reports they are at 87 percent of pre-pandemic ridership levels. Of note, stations in The Bronx have seen growth of 150 percent over last year. Special event service to Yankee Stadium has been growing, too. “We saw our highest ridership to Yankee Stadium this past week [last week of September], with 16 percent of attendees traveling to the game by train.” In addition, the railroad is looking forward to its first service expansion in more than 25 years with the extension of New Haven Line service to New York Penn Station in 2027. “Enhanced East Bronx service and Penn Station Access will be a game changer,” Vonashek said. Four new stations will be added in the East Bronx: Hunts Point, Parkchester/Van Nest, Morris Park, and Co-Op City, providing direct rail access to Penn Station for Bronx residents.

ABOVE: Metro-North president Justin Vonashek disembarks from a New Haven Line “Super Express” at Grand Central Terminal in New York City. —Courtesy MTA

Asking if there are other possible territory expansions in the future, Vonashek said, “We’re focusing on improving the existing service we have and making sure the customers have the best possible experience.” More trains are being added to the upper Hudson Line to address crowding, including two new “Super Express” runs to be introduced in October that offer 90-minute service from Poughkeepsie. This follows on the heels of the new “Super Express” service introduced on the New Haven Line back in March, saving up to 25 minutes of travel time for commuters coming from Connecticut. “We saw a 10% increase in ridership after we added the Super Expresses on the New Haven Line.” These gradual improvements to schedules are the result of increased demand as more workers are traveling to New York City.

This past February, officials across the Hudson River in Orange and Rockland counties were demanding better service on the Port Jervis and Pascack Valley lines. According to a report in the Journal News, Rockland County Executive Ed Day argued that west-of-Hudson (WOH) commuters do not receive the same level of service as those on the east side of the river, and that fare hikes and increased subsidies are not justified until improvements are made. Vonashek said the challenges to expanding WOH service are directly related to the overall system capacity of partner New Jersey Transit. “There’s a practical issue of the miles of single-track main line, a lack of siding capacity, plus yard capacity in Suffern, N.Y., and Hoboken, N.J.” According to Vonashek, WOH service posted a 94 percent on-time performance rating, compared to NJT’s average 90 percent system-wide OTP. “We recently named a new superintendent of WOH just to focus on that territory, and it’s made a huge difference in terms of managing the customer experience.”

ABOVE: Metro-North GE P32AC-DM 208 wearing the 40th anniversary tribute to the original Metro-North “beachball” design of the 1980s leads a Hudson Line train at Marble Hill, N.Y., on August 30, 2025. Locomotive 208 was selected because FL9 2008 was the last of the iconic cab units to be retired from regular service in April 2007. While new Siemens Chargers are arriving to replace the P32s, 15 rehabbed units will remain on the roster through at least 2032. —Otto M. Vondrak photo

When asked how overall system velocity can be increased, Vonashek said that improvements to the signal systems in certain areas have allowed for increased speed. Plus, the introduction of the new Siemens Chargers helps reduce station dwell time. In 2021, Metro-North placed an order for 27 Siemens Charger SC42-DM dual-mode locomotives that can operate off third rail or diesel power to gradually phase out the aging General Electric P32AC-DM units delivered 30 years ago. Vonashek was excited about the new Chargers entering revenue service ahead of schedule and under budget. “No. 301 entered revenue service last week, and 302 entered service this week.” While most of the P32s will be retired, the railroad will retain 15 units and rehab them in-house to maintain them as part of the fleet through 2032. “The Heritage Unit program is part of that, as some locomotives come through for rehab.” Extensive body work is part of the program to keep these units in a good state of repair, and so far, Metro-North has released seven heritage units honoring predecessor railroads.

Vonashek is also looking forward to the arrival of new Siemens Charger dual-mode battery power/AC locomotives that will be dedicated to Penn Station Access service. These new locomotives can draw power off AC overhead catenary on the New Haven Line, or use internal battery power.

In MTA’s recent $68 billion capital plan (2025-2029), Metro-North received $6 billion that will be applied to maintaining the “core service,” which includes $1 billion dedicated to the Grand Central Terminal “artery” that funnels the Hudson, Harlem, and New Haven Lines into the busy terminal. “This is more than double past appropriations,” said Vonashek. These funds will be applied to the GCT “trainshed” (platform area) and ongoing Park Avenue Viaduct repairs, fortifying the Hudson Line against coastal surges and landslides, bringing stations to a good state of repair, upgrading electrical substations, purchasing new rolling stock to replace the last of the Budd M-3s, and improving overall system accessibility.

What’s it like to be the president of Metro-North? “I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity that I never expected, but that I also never take for granted,” Vonashek said. “Walking through Grand Central each day and taking in its beauty, a testament to the work of our skilled employees, not just in GCT, but throughout the whole system,” he said, “We are the premier commuter agency.”

The post EXCLUSIVE: Interview with Metro-North’s New President Justin Vonashek appeared first on Railfan & Railroad Magazine.

DART (Courtesy of DART)

DART’s new regional rail service, Silver Line, will start Oct. 25, 2025, with free rides through Nov. 8, the transit agency reported Oct. 8. Public celebrations will be held at each of the 10 stations on opening day, featuring live music, cultural performances, family-friendly activities, and community programming.

Spanning 26 miles in North Texas, the Silver Line will connect Plano, Richardson, Dallas, Addison, Carrollton, Coppell, Grapevine, and DFW International Airport. According to the transit agency, it will not only reduce congestion but also link residents to jobs and educational opportunities, and expand travel options. The Silver Line will run from 4 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily with 30-minute headways during weekday peak hours and 60-minute headways during off-peak hours and on weekends. There will be direct transfers to DART light rail, bus routes, DFW terminals, and Trinity Metro TexRail service.

The Silver Line will feature DMUs (diesel multiple units) from Swiss manufacturer Stadler, which in 2019 was awarded an approximately $119 million contract for eight FLIRT DMUs, which were assembled at its Salt Lake City, Utah, plant. The FLIRT for DART meets both tier 4 EPA emissions standards and Federal Railroad Administration standards. Each DMU comprises two cab cars, two coach cars, plus a engine module (power pack), according to Stadler, which noted that the setup includes four powered axles and eight unpowered axles. This puts each train at approximately 267 feet long. Each has seating for 235 riders. The equipment is similar to Trinity Metro’s TexRail commuter rail vehicles, also built by Stadler. The 27-mile, nine-station TexRail runs eight trains between Fort Worth and DFW Airport’s Terminal B.

According to DART, each of the Silver Line’s 10 fully accessible stations was designed with input from the cities along the rail corridor, reflecting local character, community feedback, and accessibility features “to ensure a safe and welcoming experience for all riders.”

“The Silver Line is a centerpiece of our Point B vision to make DART your first-in-mind mobility partner,” DART President and CEO Nadine Lee said. “By connecting key employment centers, neighborhoods, and the world’s third-busiest airport, this project will be a catalyst for economic growth, provide access to opportunity, and a seamless mobility experience that helps our region thrive.”

“Our focus is on reliability and convenience,” added Gary Slagel, DART Chairman of the Board. “With predictable schedules, modern trains, and seamless connections, the Silver Line is built to meet the needs of both daily riders and occasional travelers. It’s another way DART is making North Texas more connected than ever.”

The Silver Line project includes the adjacent Cotton Belt Regional Hike & Bike Trail. The trail is a part of the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) Mobility 2045 Regional Veloweb Trail network, with phases being built in conjunction with the Silver Line through a partnership with NCTCOG and the cities within the corridor. NCTCOG is responsible for the cost and construction of the trail, and cities within the trail system will be responsible for the maintenance.

HART The second segment of Skyline includes stations at Makalapa (Pearl Harbor), Lelepaua (Daniel K. Inouye International Airport), Āhua (Lagoon Drive), and Kahauiki (Middle Street). (Courtesy of HART)

Skyline’s second segment will open Oct. 16. Running 5.2 miles from Aloha Stadium to Middle Street, it will serve employment centers, the airport, and Pearl Harbor. Hawaii Public Radio recently conducted an interview with Honolulu Department of Transportation Services Deputy Director Jon Nouchi, who provided a preview of the new service. Highlights of his comments are included below:

“We’re absolutely excited to add on another 5 miles and another four stations,” Nouchi told the media outlet. “And it seems a little short, but this is extremely significant in that it’ll connect the other 11 miles and nine stations to major job centers in this 5-mile, four-station extension [see map above]. … In this case, you’ll go out to the Skyline station at the airport and find that Skyline goes west. It’s for the benefit of our own people right now who live everywhere west of the airport.” Before the launch, “we’re deploying a lot of manpower to just go out and make sure people know where they’re going, know what stations to get on and off at, and how their ride is going to change.” Following the launch, he said, riders will have “a free weekend on the 19th and 20th, the immediate next weekend, and that is with a HOLO card. Anybody can ride free on Skyline and TheBus, and that’s important. I want people to get out there and go explore, go see how these stations can work for them, especially the airport station. It’s good to be able to figure out how to get to the terminals, and we have land bridges and all these new connections at the airport. Our partners with HDOT (Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation) have been so good to work with in integrating the station right inside the airport. It’s not like in other cities, where it’s like a side afterthought, where we pushed it off to where they had space. It is smack dab in the middle of our airport. And that’s a tremendous feat.”

Segment 1 included the first nine stations and 10.75 miles of guideway. On June 9, 2023, HART transferred the guideway, stations, 43-acre Rail Operations Center, and 12 four-car trains to Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS). The rail system, officially named Skyline, opened to the public June 30, 2023.

Segment 3—including three miles of elevated guideway and six stations at Kalihi, Honolulu Community College-Kapālama, Iwilei, Chinatown, Downtown, and Civic Center—is expected to wrap up in 2030, with the transfer to DTS by 2031. A groundbreaking ceremony took place in August.

Further Reading:

• Delivering a Hawaii Transit Megaproject
• Tutor Perini Lands $1.66B Skyline Contract
• Hitachi Rail Sues HART for $325MM
• Watch: Happy Birthday, Skyline!
• HART Takes Delivery of Final Trainset, $125MM in Federal Funding

Caltrain Pictured: Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard announcing that the railroad will be compensated for the power its trains return to the grid through regenerative braking. (Screen Grab from Caltrain Video)

Caltrain on Oct. 8 reported that it will be compensated for the power its new electric trains return to the grid through regenerative braking, thanks to policy changes by its clean energy partners Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE) and San Jose Clean Energy (SJCE). The regional/commuter rail system runs on 100% renewable energy supplied by PCE and SJCE, mostly solar and wind. Caltrain said it currently returns approximately 23% of the power it uses back to the power grid, providing power to residents and businesses along its corridor serving the San Francisco Peninsula and the Santa Clara Valley in California.

Starting April 2026, SJCE and PCE will allow Caltrain to qualify for a Net Billing Rate, which will enable Caltrain to receive approximately $1 million annually in compensation for the clean power it sends back to the grid, the railroad reported.

“Caltrain’s new electric trains don’t just use electricity—they also give some back,” said Lori Mitchell, Director of SJCE. “Our Green Transportation program is the first in the state and one of the few in the country to give credit to public transit systems like Caltrain for the energy they return to the grid, helping them save money and reduce pollution.”

“Our partnership with Caltrain and its bold move to all-renewable and carbon-free electric rail service have already improved the quality of life for our communities and illustrates how powerful local, community-driven leadership can be in better meeting customer needs,” added PCE CEO Shawn Marshall. “And now with the new regenerative braking, their cleaner, quieter and more efficient travel will send even more emission-free power back to the larger regional grid.”

According to Caltrain, California Assemblymember Diane Papan authored AB 1372 to include the regenerative braking from electric trains as a renewable electrical generation facility, which would require power providers to compensate railroads that return power to the grid. “Now that Caltrain’s clean energy suppliers approved net billing, the passage of this bill would likely result in Caltrain receiving an additional 20% in compensation from its energy distributor PG&E,” according to the railroad.

“I’m pleased to see that the renewable energy that Caltrain is sending back to the grid is being recognized and fairly compensated,” Assemblymember Papan said. “This is the right thing for supporting public transit and highlighting the incredible benefits from electrification.”

“Caltrain running train service on 100% renewable energy for the first time in 161 years is a victory in and of itself,” Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard noted. “But now that our partners at PCE and SJCE have agreed to compensate us for the power we return to the grid, we have yet another reason to celebrate our transition to the electric fleet. I thank PCE and SJCE for their dedication to both public transit and clean power, and Assemblymember Papan for leading the charge on this issue. We’ll all be breathing easier because of their efforts.”

Originally estimated to cost approximately $19.5 million annually, Caltrain said its electricity use since the launch of electric service in 2024 averages 207 MWh on weekdays and 175 MWh on weekends, revising cost estimates to $15.3 million. PCE and SJCE 100% renewable energy products also allow Caltrain to generate revenues from the California Low Carbon Fuel standards program, further lowering Caltrain’s electric fuel costs, according to the railroad.

Caltrain’s electrified service arrived two years later than planned. The regional/commuter railroad’s $2.4 billion Electrification Project upgraded and electrified its double-track system from the 4th and King Station in San Francisco to the Tamien Station in San Jose and replaced trains. Caltrain awarded Stadler a $551 million contract to supply 16 six-car EMUs in August 2016 with an option to extend these sets to seven-car trains exercised in December 2018. The 110-mph-capable trainsets were built at the manufacturer’s plant in Salt Lake City, and there are options worth $385 million under the original contract to supply up to 96 additional railcars. The EMUs replaced trains powered by F40 diesel locomotives—approximately 75% of Caltrain’s diesel fleet—which entered service in 1985. Its newer locomotives have been retained to operate the non-electrified Dumbarton extension and services south of Tamien.

Further Reading:

• Caltrain Celebrates First Anniversary of Electrified Service
• Caltrain Installs Digital Displays at South Santa Clara County Stations
• BLET, Caltrain Ratify New Contract

San Diego MTS (Courtesy of San Diego MTS)

San Diego MTS on Oct. 8 reported that it has seen a 24% drop in crime across its network. The reduction in crime comes less than two years after the transit agency launched a comprehensive security initiative to increase safety, according to the transit agency, which operates 92 bus routes and four Trolley lines in 10 cities and unincorporated areas of San Diego, Calif.

Data shows that from January through August 2025, 969 crimes were reported on San Diego MTS services—76% of the 1,274 incidents reported during the same period in 2024, the agency noted.

Breaking down the numbers by transit mode, crimes on the Trolley network decreased 14.6%, while bus routes saw a 53.1% reduction.

In early 2024, MTS rolled out several security measures to help grow ridership, including:

• “Better Coverage: Increasing the number of Code Compliance Inspectors by 60% to add more visibility and coverage to the system.
• “Fare Compliance: Getting better fare compliance from riders by implementing a stricter fare enforcement policy.
• “Faster Response: Consolidated the 24/7 security hotline into a single number for texting and calling, and improved technology behind the scenes so incoming calls can be managed more efficiently.
• “Better Visibility: Increased security ‘train teams’ on Trolley lines from 5-6 teams per shift to 8-10 teams per shift, which led to more frequent interactions between officers and riders, along with an increase in calls and text messages to MTS.
• “More Patrols on Buses: Doubled the Bus Enforcement security team to help extend security presence beyond major transit centers and Trolley lines.
• “Expanding Coverage: Added security outposts at busy transit centers like San Ysidro, 12th & Imperial and El Cajon so officers spend more time on the system and less time traveling to/from headquarters.”

The agency’s 2024 security initiative followed a 2022 customer survey that showed riders wanted a stronger security presence on the transit system, San Diego MTS reported. In response, the MTS Board approved a $4.2 million increase to the security budget in 2023.

“On the 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey, conducted after the security initiatives were in place, 71% of bus riders and 63% of Trolley riders reported feeling safe on board—well above the national averages of 42% for both modes,” San Diego MTS said. “Riders were also five times more likely to say their satisfaction has improved compared to a year ago.”

Beyond staffing, San Diego MTS is also continuing to expand lighting infrastructure. Three lighting projects are under way along the Orange Line Trolley between Lemon Grove and Barrio Logan; at an underpass near Beyer Blvd Trolley Stations; and a new solar lighting project at bus stops.

Recognizing its efforts to maintain a safe and secure transit system, San Diego MTS earned the Gold Standard Award from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration, one of only two transit agencies nationwide to receive this distinction for 2024 and awarded in summer 2025, according to the agency.

“Taking a comprehensive look at passenger safety over the past several years has been our top priority, and these results show the impact of our ongoing efforts to make MTS a secure and welcoming transit system for all riders,” said Monica Montgomery Steppe, San Diego MTS Board Chair Pro Tem and San Diego County Supervisor, District 4. “We’re committed to building on this progress by working closely with MTS staff and the community to ensure all riders feel secure and supported on our buses and Trolleys.”

“We’ve been intentional with our improvements on a lot of fronts, and the results are beginning to show,” added MTS Chief Executive Officer Sharon Cooney. “We have been listening to our riders for a few years now through customer feedback, surveys and research that the top priority for riders is feeling safe while using the system. Ridership grew 7% last year and a big factor in that can be attributed to this reduction in crime.”

Further Reading:

• San Diego MTS Ridership Surges in FY25
• San Diego MTS Earns ‘Perfect Score’ in Federal Triennial Review
• San Diego MTS Board Greenlights FY26 Budget

VRE (Courtesy of VRE)

On Oct. 6, VRE reached a milestone of 100 million total riders since operations began in 1992. The nation’s 13th largest commuter rail service connects Central and Northern Virginia with the District of Columbia. Its two lines, Manassas and Fredericksburg, serve 19 stations, including two—L’Enfant and Union Station—in D.C.

To commemorate the occasion, VRE said it will celebrate with riders on board trains following the conclusion of the federal government shutdown. Event details will be shared on VRE’s social media channels.

Like many transit agencies across the country, VRE said that it faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, but has since experienced a strong ridership rebound. In recent months, ridership growth has accelerated, with more than 100,000 more passengers traveling in July 2025 compared with the same month the previous year, it reported.

“This [Oct. 6] is a proud day for VRE,” said VRE Acting CEO Dallas Richards. “Reaching 100 million riders is a powerful reminder of how vital regional rail has become for daily life, mobility, and sustainability across our service area. We are humbled by the confidence placed in us, and we recommit to delivering safe, reliable, and rider-focused service into the future.”

“We have reached the 100 million riders milestone at the start of a new chapter for VRE,” said VRE Operations Board Chair and City of Alexandria Vice Mayor Sarah Bagley. “Our region is changing, and so are the ways people travel. VRE has and will continue to grow with our communities while delivering the safe, sustainable, and high-quality service riders deserve and have come to expect from VRE.”

While Oct. 6 marks an important chapter in VRE’s history, the organization said it remains focused on the future. “Alongside the Commonwealth of Virginia’s monumental investments in rail infrastructure through Transforming Rail in Virginia, planned capacity enhancements, additional rolling stock, and continued station modernization projects will allow VRE to serve a growing population with greater reliability and convenience,” the commuter railroad said. “The recently adopted System Plan 2050 outlines a long-term vision for the future of commuter rail in the region, including increased service frequency, longer operating hours, and strategic investments to accommodate future population and employment growth.”

Amtrak / MoDOT (Courtesy of MoDOT)

KCTV5 on Oct. 7 reported that the Missouri Department of Transportation will fund and add a “third daily service to the Missouri River Runner … between St. Louis and Kansas City to accommodate increased travel demand during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”

It will begin next April and run through June 2026, according to the media outlet, which noted that MoDOT expects it to handle heavy demand during the international soccer tournament.

The post Transit Briefs: DART, HART, Caltrain, San Diego MTS, VRE, Amtrak appeared first on Railway Age.

Former Norfolk Southern Senior Vice President of Operations Planning and Support John M. Samuels Jr. died August 22, 2025, in Jupiter, Fla., He was 82

Samuels grew up in Yardley, Pa. After graduating from Pennsbury High School in 1961, he attended General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) through its engineering co-op program, alternating between academic studies and hands-on experience at GM’s Trenton plant. He continued his education at Pennsylvania State University, earning an M.S. and Ph.D. in industrial and manufacturing engineering. In 1968, he married Leslie (Lil) Charlene Ruth.

Samuels’ distinguished career in railroad engineering spanned decades. Beginning as a tenured professor of engineering at Penn State, he transitioned in 1978 to Conrail, where he served as Vice President of Operating Assets and played a pivotal role in turning the government-owned freight railroad into a publicly traded, profitable company. In 1998, just prior to Norfolk Southern and CSX’s 58%/42% split acquisition of Conrail—and after considering offers from both railroads—he joined NS, rising to Senior Vice President of Operations Planning and Support. His groundbreaking work in railroad safety, technology, and PTC earned him numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the National Academy of Engineering and an honorary doctorate from Kettering University

In 2006, Samuels and his wife retired to Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., where he continued consulting through his business, Revenue Variable Engineering LLC. Lil died in 2020. Samuels is survived by his son John Michael Samuels III and daughter-in-law Dawn, his companion Davideen Werner, sisters Florence Leipholtz and Winifred Lynn, and numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces.

In 2021, the U.S. Congress directed the Secretary of Transportation to enter into an agreement with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine – Transportation Research Board (TRB) “to conduct a study on the operation of freight trains that are longer than 7,500 feet.” Sponsored by the Federal Railroad Administration, the TRB convened a 12-member committee “with experience in freight and passenger railroad operations, state rail transportation, national rail safety oversight, and freight and passenger rail research” that met 16 times to examine impacts of long trains. A December 2024 Rail Group On Air podcast featured Samuels and five other committee members.

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Through this potential transaction, Rail Vision and Quantum Transportation “aim to combine quantum-AI based IP protected, innovation with Rail Vision’s advanced vision and safety technologies, creating potential synergies that will enhance Rail Vision’s existing and future product lines, drive innovation, and deliver long-term value for stakeholders,” the companies said.

Under the terms of the term sheet, upon the closing of the acquisition, Rail Vision says it will issue ordinary shares representing approximately 4.99% of its share capital to select Quantum Transportation shareholders (the “Exchanging Shareholders”) in exchange for their full holdings in Quantum Transportation, “securing majority control post-closing.” Additionally, upon the closing of the acquisition, Rail Vision will extend a convertible loan of up to $700,000 to Quantum Transportation at an 8% annual interest rate, “disbursed in tranches to support ongoing operations and development.” The loan, including principal and interest, shall be repayable in one payment within the 24-month term and may be converted, at Rail Vision’s sole discretion, into Quantum Transportation’s most senior class of shares.

Quantum Transportation’s patented machine learning-based universal decoder, the company says, “represents a breakthrough in quantum error correction, addressing the inherent noise in qubits that limits scalable quantum computing.” This technology, developed by leading computer science experts and protected as patented intellectual property (IP), “is code-agnostic, noise-aware, and scalable.” This, Quantum Transportation adds, “enables it to adapt seamlessly across various hardware platforms and code sizes. It empowers quantum hardware companies and labs, particularly small- to medium-sized entities, to research and select optimal error correction schemes without in-house teams. By utilizing this IP for transportation applications, including railway, Rail Vision aims to unlock new capabilities in anomaly detection, predictive maintenance, and autonomous rail operations, capitalizing on the growing quantum computing market projected to drive exponential advancements in transportation.”

The transaction is conditioned on signing definitive agreements and key milestones and is expected to close within the next 60 days, subject to satisfaction of all conditions, including regulatory approvals.

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Norfolk Southern is once again making history more accessible. Thanks to a $500,000 contribution from NS, the Atlanta History Center and the Georgia Historical Society have completed a landmark archival exchange—preserving Georgia’s rich heritage and making it easier to explore.

Why it matters: This unprecedented collaboration reunites collections that have long been separated, ensuring Georgia’s history is protected and available to researchers, students, and the public for generations to come.

The Central of Georgia archives arrive at the Atlanta History Center. Photo courtesy of the Atlanta History Center. What’s Included in the Exchange:

• Atlanta History Center acquired the Central of Georgia Railway Collection from the Georgia Historical Society—nearly three football fields of records. These will now sit alongside the Southern Railway archives, forming one of the most comprehensive railroad history collections in the U.S. Both railroads are predecessors of Norfolk Southern.
• Georgia Historical Society received 12 major manuscript and photographic collections from the Atlanta History Center, including parts of the Atlanta Olympic Games photo archive and files from the Georgia Film Commission.
• This initiative continues Norfolk Southern’s longstanding partnership with the Atlanta History Center. In 2021, we donated the complete collection of Southern Railway archives, dating back to 1828. With the addition of the Central of Georgia Railway records, that story is now more complete, offering a deeper look at how rail transformed the Southeast.

What They’re Saying:

“By reuniting collections that have been scattered for decades, we’re opening new doors for researchers, students, and history lovers everywhere.” — Sheffield Hale, President and CEO of Atlanta History Center

“This agreement demonstrates two nonprofits working together for the greater good. Norfolk Southern is playing a vital role in that.” — Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society

“The story of railroads underscores how rail transportation spurred Georgia’s development by connecting cities, fueling commerce, and shaping communities throughout the Southeast. Supporting this unprecedented exchange not only honors our heritage, but it also reinforces Norfolk Southern’s commitment to connecting people, places and history.” — Kristin Wong, Director NS Foundation & Community Impact

For more information, visit the Georgia Historical Society website.

The post Preserving the Past, Powering the Future: NS Helps Reunite Georgia’s Railroad History appeared first on Railway Age.

Alstom on Oct. 8 announced that Martin Sion has been chosen by the company’s Board of Directors, following the recommendation of the Nominations and Remuneration Committee, as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective April 1, 2026. He will succeed Henri Poupart-Lafarge, who announced in May his decision not to seek a further term, having served as CEO since February 2016.

“The Board has conducted an extensive search process over the last few months, and we believe that Martin Sion has the necessary experience to lead Alstom. We look forward to welcoming him in April 2026. Until then, Henri Poupart-Lafarge will continue in his role, thus ensuring a smooth transition,” said Philippe Petitcolin, Chairman of Alstom’s Board of Directors.

At the same meeting, the Board of Directors also decided, on the recommendation of the Nominations and Remuneration Committee, on the elements of Sion’s remuneration for his duties. These elements are available to download below.

After graduating from the École Centrale de Paris and a spell at Sandia National Laboratories in the U.S., Sion joined Société Européenne de Propulsion (SEP) in 1990, where he held various engineering positions. In 2005, he became head of the Technical Department of Snecma’s Space Engines Division. He was subsequently appointed head of the Improvement Strategy Department at Snecma (now Safran Aircraft Engines) and, in 2009, head of the “Build-up and Equipment” Industrial Excellence Centre. From 2010 to 2013, he headed the company’s Space Engines division. He then joined Aircelle (now Safran Nacelles) in 2013 as CEO, and in 2015, he was appointed Chairman of Safran Electronics & Defense. Sion has been a member of ArianeGroup’s Board of Directors since 2020 and became the company’s CEO in 2023.

20251008_Gouvernance_Documentation_Remuneration_Martin_Sion_CEO_ENDownload

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They received the Maritime Industry Salute Award, which annually honors individuals and organizations that make “significant contributions to the welfare of seafarers visiting the San Pedro Bay ports.” This year’s award, presented aboard the USS IOWA, highlighted PHL’s ongoing support for the mission of the International Seafarers Center, which is described as providing “essential services and a home-away-from-home for mariners from around the world.”

Since 1998, Anacostia Rail Holdings subsidiary PHL has served as the neutral S&T (switching and terminal) operator for the on-dock rail network serving the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach; it connects the port terminals to the national rail network, through Class I railroads BNSF and Union Pacific (UP).

OpenRailwayMap.org overview of PHL system.

“Every day, a complex dance of global commerce unfolds in the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach,” the International Seafarers Center of the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles reported in a notice about the award. “At the heart of this vital operation is an often-unseen giant. As the ‘freight rail lifeline for Southern California,’ PHL is a critical North American link in the worldwide supply chain. The railroad is an environmental leader, whose operations keep more than two million trucks off our highways each year , and it is a pioneer in clean air technology with its fleet of low-emission locomotives. This year, we are thrilled to honor this incredible company and its distinguished President, Otis Cliatt II. A decorated U.S. Army combat veteran awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Desert Storm, Otis brings over two decades of railroad industry experience and focused dedication to his role. Under his leadership, PHL was recently the recipient of the Bob Kleist Leadership Award from the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce—a well-deserved recognition of their excellence. Beyond his impressive professional achievements, we have personally experienced Otis’s incredible kindness and generous spirit, especially in his support of our Chairman of the Board, Guy Fox. It is our distinct honor to celebrate him and the indispensable work of his team at Pacific Harbor Line.”

“Mr. Otis Cliatt and Pacific Harbor Line were selected for this honor because of their unwavering commitment to supporting the maritime community, from ensuring the safety and well-being of seafarers, to fostering strong connections with local workers and residents,” Guy Fox said.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the International Seafarers Center at the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles,” Cliatt II said. “This award is a testament to the entire PHL team’s commitment to operational excellence and, most importantly, to supporting the seafarers who are the lifeblood of global trade.”

In related news, PHL recently earned an award for “exceptional leadership in the development and promotion of global trade in Southern California” from the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.

Further Reading:

• PHL Advances Zero-Emission Operations, Receives ASLRRA Safety Awards
• PHL Hosts Tour for STB’s Primus
• PHL Hosts Supply Chain Event

The post PHL, Cliatt II Earn 2025 Maritime Industry Salute Award appeared first on Railway Age.

According to the company, Sabin will also serve as a member of its Board of Directors. Sabin previously served as COO at ENFRA, an energy infrastructure company with more than 2,600 employees. Sabin brings to RailWorks more than 40 years of leadership experience in the industrial, energy, and infrastructure sectors where he focused on “strategic innovation and enhanced operational execution,” RailWorks reported. Before ENFRA, Sabin worked as Executive Vice President for Global Operations at Chicago Bridge & Iron and was part of the Executive Leadership team.

“I’m honored to join RailWorks at such a pivotal moment for the industry. . . With the strong foundation already in place, we have a tremendous opportunity to expand our reach, strengthen customer partnerships, and deliver lasting value for our employees, stakeholders, and the communities we serve,” Sabin said.

RailWorks is a Bernhard Capital Partners portfolio company that focuses on construction and maintenance of rail infrastructure across the U.S. and Canada; its brands include L.K. Comstock, PNR RailWorks, and NARSTCO. The company is said to partner with freight, passenger, and transit operators “to ensure long-term performance and growth across North America’s rail network.”

RailWorks Board Chair Brian Ferraioli said: “We’re pleased to welcome Jim as our new CEO, ushering in an important new phase of growth for the company . . . With a proven record for scaling businesses and driving operational excellence, Jim is the right leader to accelerate our strategic priorities. We thank outgoing CEO Kevin Riddett for his contributions and are confident RailWorks will continue to strengthen its position as the leading partner in rail infrastructure, driving value for stakeholders and capitalizing on opportunities ahead in this market.”

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The milestone reflects decades of employee expertise and Norfolk Southern’s commitment to building a cleaner, more reliable fleet. By giving locomotives new life, Juniata’s workforce is keeping costs down, cutting emissions, and ensuring the railroad is ready for the future. Rail technology leader Wabtec is also playing a large role by converting locomotives at its plant in Erie, Pennsylvania, as part of NS’ program.

Why it matters

• Fuel savings: Modernized locomotives are up to 25% more fuel efficient.
• Reliability gains: The upgrades improve reliability by 40% and increase haulage capacity by 55%.
• Sustainability impact: Conversions are a key step toward our goal of reducing emissions intensity by 42% by 2034.

Key details

• Each conversion extends a locomotive’s life by at least 20 years, at half the cost of buying new.
• The program integrates smart sensors and energy management software, reducing idle time and maximizing fuel economy.
• The milestone underpins NS as the leader of the most modernized freight rail fleet in North America.

Spotlight: Juniata Locomotive Shop Aerial view of Juniata Locomotive Shop and Rose Yard.

Home to the largest locomotive repair facility in North America, Juniata has been at the center of many of our most important milestones for more than a century. Generations of craft employees have kept the nation’s freight moving, combining deep expertise with modern innovation. The Juniata Locomotive Shop modernized many of the DC locomotives, turning legacy machines into smarter, greener power for the future.

Our railroaders’ work at Juniata includes:

• Stripping down a DC locomotive to begin the conversion to AC outside the shop.
• Installing an operator cab, auxiliary cab, engine, alternator, and blowers inside the Juniata Shop.
• Using cranes to “fly” the locomotive inside the shop.
• Removing and adding new components.
• Testing the new unit, as well as priming and painting.

From prep and strip to ready to roll, the entire process takes about nine weeks.

Click the LinkedIn URL here to view the conversion process done at the Juniata Shop.

What we’re saying

“This milestone is about more than locomotives; it illustrates how sustainability and business drivers go hand-in-hand. By modernizing our fleet, we’re cutting fuel costs, boosting reliability and meeting our climate goals — all at the same time. This is a powerful example of how investing in sustainability is also an investment in long-term performance.” — Josh Raglin, Chief Sustainability Officer, Norfolk Southern

“Behind every modernized locomotive is a team of railroaders whose skill makes these achievements possible. Thanks to their work, Norfolk Southern operates the most modernized fleet in North America – proof that our railroaders are powering the future of freight. This partnership with Wabtec truly accelerates the future of transportation.” — Ryan Stege, Senior Director Locomotive Operations & Maintenance, Norfolk Southern

Photos below show the 1,000th converted unit

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