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Sound Transit opened the world’s first floating light rail bridge across Lake Washington on March 28, connecting the agency’s two lines into a unified system for the first time ever.

For years, Seattle’s light rail system had been divided by the lake, with Line 1 connecting Lynnwood and Federal Way, and Line 2 connecting Bellevue and downtown Redmond. With the opening of the new bridge alongside Interstate 90, Line 2 now extends to downtown Seattle and Lynnwood. The extension of Line 2 along the same route as Line 1 between downtown Seattle and Lynnwood also doubles frequency at 14 stations in the busiest part of the system (one train every four minutes during peak hours).

The floating bridge was constructed in 1989. The part used by the rail line was once reversible express lanes for the adjacent highway. The first trains ran over the bridge in September 2025. Along with the bridge, Sound Transit also opened two new stations at Judkins Park and Mercer Island. 

—Justin Franz 

The post Sound Transit Opens Floating Bridge appeared first on Railfan & Railroad Magazine.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• For NJT, A ‘Rapid Action Plan’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clever Devices’ offerings include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• For NJT, A ‘Rapid Action Plan’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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