Hot News! Edited by Carl G. Perelman UPDATED NOVEMBER 20, 2009: MILWAUKEE ROAD STEAM LOCOMOTIVE 261 TO RETURN TO NATIONAL RAILROAD MUSEUM: Steve Sandberg, COO of the Friends of the 261 has informed the National Railroad Museum that his organization has decided to discontinue operating former Milwaukee Road steam locomotive #261, according to Michael E. Telzrow, executive director of the National Railroad Museum, located in Green Bay, Wisconsin. . Per the terms of the current agreement, The Friends of the 261 are now responsible for returning the locomotive to the Museum. “The Museum wishes to see #261 continue its excursion operations,” stated Telzrow. “The locomotive is a living piece of America’s railroad heritage and offers a unique perspective on a bygone era. For these reasons, the Museum is exploring options which involve continued operation and eventual exhibit at the National Railroad Museum.” The former Milwaukee Road locomotive is the first piece of railroad equipment acquired by the Museum, arriving at the facility on March 10, 1958. In railroad service, #261 had a brief career as a freight and passenger locomotive from 1944 to 1954. The Milwaukee Road assigned the locomotive to Chicago. From here it worked as far west as Kansas City and Omaha and north to Minneapolis-St. Paul. Having been built under World War II technology restrictions, #261 is a conglomeration of designs that existed at the time. The Friends of the 261 have operated the locomotive for the past 18 years under a lease agreement with the National Railroad Museum. The 261 has appeared at rail events in the Midwest and eastern states. The locomotive has also led numerous excursions in Minnesota and Wisconsin. (Friends of the National Railway Museum - posted 11/20) AMTRAK TO BEGIN MAJOR BRIDGE PROJECT IN NEW YORK: Amtrak is making major investments in the New York area to bring its bridges, tracks and other infrastructure up to a state of good repair, increase track speeds and improve operations, including a soon to start $10 million project to rehabilitate the Pelham Bay Bridge located along the Northeast Corridor. “Amtrak is committed to maintaining and improving our infrastructure in New York to ensure the safety of passengers and support efficient train operations,” said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph Boardman, noting a specific focus on the heavily traveled Northeast Corridor between New York and Boston and on the Empire Line between New York and Albany. Boardman said Amtrak has spent hundreds of millions of dollars in New York in recent years on numerous infrastructure projects that are often worked on without much fanfare and are hidden in plain sight, but nonetheless result in a safer and improved railroad for passengers. The most recent major investment by Amtrak is the $10 million rehabilitation of the more than 100-year old Pelham Bay Bridge in the Bronx. Scheduled to begin by the end of November 2009, the project is designed to strengthen and repair the piers, piles, abutments and foundations that support the tracks, the transmission lines, and the catenary wires above the tracks that feed electricity directly to the trains. The improvements, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), will make the Pelham Bay Bridge more reliable and reduce maintenance on the structure that carries 43 passenger trains and two freight trains each weekday, and opens about 10 times per day to marine traffic. The work is to be completed by October 2010. An ongoing major project is the $72 million effort to upgrade the catenary wires on the Amtrak Hell Gate Line, the 20-mile stretch of tracks from New Rochelle to New York Penn Station. The project began in 2006, is designed to modernize and replace electrical equipment that dates as far back as 1914 and will provide more reliability, fewer power disruptions and faster repairs to keep trains on the move. It is funded by the Amtrak general capital program. In October 2009 Amtrak completed a $6 million rock stabilization project near the George Washington Bridge located along the Empire Line to prevent rocks from falling on the tracks resulting in the increase of track speed from 15 mph to 50 mph. The slopes were stabilized by removing 407 tons of loose rock and vegetation, applying fiberglass-reinforced concrete, attaching more than 1,000 bolts, and installing nearly 90,000 square feet of wire mesh retaining walls. The project was funded by Amtrak’s general capital program. Additionally, in October 2008, the joint Amtrak-Metro North Railroad $110 million Shell-At-Grade Interlocking project in New Rochelle was completed. Amtrak provided $99 million from its general capital program for the project begun in 2004 to increase capacity and improve reliability by removing and repositioning track switches, making new track alignments, installing new rails and crossties, and improving the catenary wires and the communications and signal systems. As a result, track speed increased from 15 mph to 45 mph, the number of tracks with platform access at the New Rochelle station increased from two to three and the North Avenue Bridge that crosses the tracks near the New Rochelle station was rebuilt. Amtrak is undertaking many other projects to maintain and improve its New York area infrastructure, including spending $7.5 million from its FY 2010 general capital program to repair six additional bridges on the Empire Line and $5 million from ARRA funds for painting and maintenance of the Bronx Kill Bridge on the Northeast Corridor. (Amtrak - posted 11/20) MBTA'S BLUE LINE NOW FEATURES SIX CAR TRAINS: All trains on the Blue Line rapid transit line from Boston to Revere have been upgraded from four to six cars, enabling the "T" to carry more passengers. The transition began and was completed this fall. "With little fanfare, the Blue Line made the transition to all six-car trains at all hours of the day and night," said Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority spokesman Joseph Pesaturo. "The last of the old, unreliable cars were removed from service and now customers are served only by the new fleet of 94 cars." The transition to all six-car trains came just as the modernization and accessibility project at Maverick Station was completed, he said. According to Pesaturo, all of the old four-car trains have been replaced with the new six-car trains, which increases rider capacity by 50 percent. In September, the last month for which the MBTA has complete data, the Blue Line's on-time performance rate was 95 percent - its highest in 18 months. "Today, 12 six-car trains operate 4-to-5 minutes apart in the peak commuting periods and 7-to-8 minutes apart during off-peak periods," he said. Federal, state and Lynn officials have been working on a plan that would extend the Blue Line from its present terminus at Wonderland Station in Revere to the central train station on Market Street in downtown Lynn. Several studies have been completed but the project was most recently fouled when Revere officials allowed residents to occupy an apartment building constructed along the right-of-way for the track extension. The plan must be revised so that the tracks can follow a path across part of Rumney Marsh, would could require additional environmental impact studies (MBTA - posted 11/19) NJ TRANSIT JOINS FRA "CLOSE CALL" PILOT PROGRAM: The U.S. Department of Transportation announced today that New Jersey Transit (NJ TRANSIT) has started its participation in the Close Call Project, a safety pilot program designed to give rail employees the ability to voluntarily and anonymously report “close call” incidents that could have resulted in an accident but did not. “We are excited that New Jersey Transit is taking part in this valuable safety program that has already proven to reduce injuries and save lives,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “We hope that others will follow suit and strengthen our efforts.” NJ TRANSIT is the third railroad – and the first passenger railroad – to join the program along with the Canadian Pacific Railway and Union Pacific Railroad. In this program, employees can report “close call” incidents without fear of sanction or penalty from the railroad or the federal government. The cumulative results of close call reports are being analyzed to determine areas of potential risk and to develop solutions to prevent and minimize their occurrence in the future. Preliminary analysis from the Union Pacific close call reporting project at its rail yard in North Platte, NE already shows a significant reduction in human factor-related incidents. “The Close Call project is critical to our efforts to reduce on-the-job incidents and injuries,” said Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Administrator Joseph Szabo. FRA currently requires railroads to routinely report a wide range of accidents and incidents. “Close calls” are not required to be routinely reported but are potentially very serious. In order to participate, NJ TRANSIT, the United Transportation Union, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, and the American Train Dispatchers Association each ratified an agreement with the FRA to allow employees to make confidential reports of close calls. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics is assisting FRA on this ground-breaking research effort using its unique authority to protect the confidentiality of the data. (USDOT - posted 11/19) NEW STUDY SHOWS FREIGHT RAIL FUEL EFFICIENCY UP MORE THAN 20 PERCENT SINCE 1999: The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today released a study showing vast improvements in freight rail fuel efficiency over the last two decades, approximately 22 percent between 1990 and 2006. “While all types of transportation are vital to the distribution of goods across the country, this study shows that utilizing America’s freight rail system can lead to significant fuel savings,” said FRA Administrator Joseph Szabo. “The environmental benefits of these positive changes over the last two decades are enormous. We look forward to working with the freight rail industry to make sure these gains continue.” Several factors point to the reasons for rail’s fuel efficiency, including the improvement in diesel-electric locomotives, the increased use of double stack trains, track and signal improvements, and longer trains. (USDOT - posted 11/19) MTA RELEASES FINAL PROPOSED 2010 BUDGET, 2010-2013 FINANCIAL PLAN: The Metropolitan Transportation Authority today released its Final Proposed 2010 Budget and November Financial Plan for 2010-2013. The approximately $11 billion 2010 Final Proposed Budget is balanced with no fare increase or reductions to scheduled service, with the help of rescue legislation enacted in Albany in May. The MTA acknowledged significant potential risks to the budget, however, setting aside an $85 million reserve and pledging an overhaul of operations to improve efficiency and address the current fiscal reality. "From a narrow context, we see increased stability and are grateful that we can present a balanced budget without impacting our customers," said Jay H. Walder, MTA Chairman and CEO. "But the MTA remains in a very fragile position with a number of risks on the horizon. This fiscal reality demands that we permanently overhaul the way the MTA does business. The bottom line is that there is no more money for us in Albany, and we will learn to do more with the funding we have." Walder announced that he will re-launch and chair a Board working group that will look at ways the MTA can fundamentally change its business model to operate more cost effectively, improve performance and provide better value to taxpayers and customers. The MTA's budget process begins with the presentation of a preliminary budget and financial plan in July, followed by a revised plan in November. The MTA is required to pass a balanced budget by the end of the calendar year, and a final plan will be considered by the MTA Board at its December 16 meeting. The November Financial Plan reflects several changes from projections made in the agency's preliminary budget in July: real estate tax revenues fell even further than projected, while ridership did not decline as much as expected. In addition, actions taken over the summer to reduce costs led to lower than expected overall spending. As a result, the MTA was able to establish an $85 million reserve in light of potential risks, including the outcome of the arbitration process with TWU Local 100 and proposed State cuts. The full budget and a PowerPoint summary are available online at www.mta.info. (MTA - posted 11/18) SEPTA ANNOUNCES STIMULUS CONSTRUCTION TO BEGIN ON ELWYN STATION EXPANSION PROJECT: On Monday morning, SEPTA General Manager Joseph Casey joined Pennsylvania State Senator Dominic Pileggi, State Representative Thomas Killion, along with local government and community leaders to announce the start of a SEPTA Regional Rail parking expansion project in Delaware County. In an effort to address rider demand, SEPTA in partnership with the Elwyn Institute, will expand the parking facilities for commuters who use Elwyn (R3) Regional Rail Station. "Expanding parking at Elwyn Station will not only help safely accommodate our park-and-ride customers, it will also alleviate parking congestion along Elwyn Road in the area ," Casey remarked, adding that further parking relief at the station will be seen as SEPTA moves towards extending service to Wawa. The current parking lot has a capacity of 233 vehicles. Space for approximately 90 additional vehicles will be available in the lot adjacent to the station increasing the number of parking spaces to over 300. This includes spaces that will provide more convenient access for disabled riders in compliance with American Disability Act (ADA) guidelines. The project is being made possible by federal funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). "I'd like to congratulate the SEPTA Board and staff on the wise use of these federal dollars", said Senator Pileggi. "When the dollars came forward, they applied it right here at Elwyn Station. This is a win-win for everyone, we'll have improved safety and increased ridership". The project, which consists of concrete work, grading, signage, electrical, and paving, will create approximately 30 jobs for area workers from Ambler, Media, Chester, Philadelphia, and Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. The nearly $900,000 ARRA project is expected to be complete in the summer of 2010 and is one of several federally funded SEPTA projects slated for completion in Delaware County. For additional information on ARRA funded projects, visit www.septa.org/business/stimulus/projects. For service information, contact the SEPTA Customer Service at (215) 580-7800 or access the SEPTA web site at www.septa.org. (SEPTA - posted 11/18) METRO-NORTH LOCOMOTIVES SOLD TO SCRAP FIRM: Metro-North Railroad have just marked FL9 2008 (1960 Built Former NH 2033) and F10s 410 (1947 Built Former MBTA 1109, GM&O F3 804a) and 411 (1947 Former MBTA 1113, GM&O F3 809a) for Frontier Industrial Corporation (FICX) scrapping company. The current list of units that are sitting in Croton Harmon, NY not marked at this time is FL9 2012, F10 413, GP8 543 and GP9 750. Railroad Museums and Excursion Railroads should contact Frontier Industrial Corporation (FICX) right away as these locomotives were recently put in storage in running condition prior to being sold to FICX. (Dan Gallo, Jr. - posted 11/17) MBTA'S FITCHBURG RAIL LINE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced the hiring of a diverse group of 15 employees with funds from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA). The new jobs support the $9 million Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line project funded through the ARRA stimulus program and part of Governor Deval Patrick’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan. The Massachusetts Congressional delegation worked with colleagues in Washington, D.C. to allocate a total of $319 million in recovery funds for transit projects at the Regional Transit Authorities and the MBTA. The 15 Track Laborer jobs involve work related to construction of track and right of way as part of the larger Fitchburg project to modernize the existing commuter rail line along the 50-mile corridor from Fitchburg to Boston. MBCR operates and maintains the commuter rail network under contract with the MBTA. The project not only creates new jobs but will benefit commuters through increased capacity and faster travel times on the Fitchburg line. The MBTA has applied for additional stimulus funds to complete double tracking of the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line, allowing 80 mph travel speeds, up to 12% better on-time performance and reduced operating and maintenance costs. The Fitchburg line is the longest in the MBTA system in distance and travel time, serving a region with limited commuter options. (MBTA - posted 11/16) CSX CELEBRATES PROJECT TO IMPROVE PHILLY RAIL CLEARANCES: Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and CSX Chairman, President and CEO Michael J. Ward joined together today to celebrate the construction of an improved rail route that generates hundreds of jobs. The completed project will create an improved double-stack rail corridor to expand Philadelphia's freight transportation options and position the region for future growth. The event was held at an active rail construction site in Philadelphia where workers are increasing clearances at 16 overhead bridges. By improving clearances, this project will allow a faster, more efficient rail connection with the Midwest, and will create over 1,200 direct and indirect jobs. "This project is good news for Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania," said Governor Rendell. "I am proud to support this environmentally friendly, cost-effective double-stack improvement project that will provide long-term economic benefits for Pennsylvania and the nation." "The City of Philadelphia is pleased that this project will provide economic and environmental benefits to the residents of Philadelphia for years to come," said Mayor Nutter. The project is funded by a $10 million contribution from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, over $12 million from CSX, and an additional $10 million shared equally by two federal sources. "I especially want to thank the many CSX employees and their union affiliates who are working on this project and helping us address the regional and national transportation needs," said Michael Ward. (CSX Corporation - posted 11/16) NEW BROCKVILLE, ONTARIO STATION ANNOUNCED: At a ceremony in Brockville, Ontario, Leeds-Grenville Member of Parliament Gordon Brown, Acting Mayor Stewart Williams and Mr. Pierre Santoni, VIA Rail's National Sales Director, announced VIA's plans for a new station with improved and expanded facilities. "Investment in a new VIA station for Brockville will not only create new jobs and stimulate the economy, but also allow VIA to provide better service to its local customers," said MP Brown. "By investing in rail services and facilities such as those here in Brockville, our government is stimulating economic activity and job creation, contributing to environmental sustainability and improving Canada's passenger rail system for years to come." VIA's Mr. Santoni added, "The investments here in Brockville and across our coast-to-coast route network will create a top-notch passenger rail service. A rail service that is safe, sustainable, and designed for Canadians in the 21st century. VIA is delighted that the citizens of Brockville are going to be a part of this new era in rail travel." VIA's new Brockville station will be a fully-accessible and aesthetically-pleasing structure adjacent to the existing building. VIA is currently studying options for the design of the new station, with the final design to be selected early next year. VIA estimates that it will invest as much as $7 million for the new station and related improvements from recent capital funding for VIA announced by the Government of Canada. Of the project's total cost, $3 million will come from the Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan. The existing Brockville station, opened in 1872, is no longer large enough to accommodate all customers at peak travel periods. Furthermore, VIA's previously-announced, $300 million Kingston Subdivision Project will add sections of new main line tracks and will include rearranging the track layout in some locations to increase safety, train frequency and service reliability. In Brockville, this involves adding one new main line track and a second platform, as well as building a new track crossover and reconfiguring the track layout. This cannot be done while still making use of the existing station. "This rail service is as relevant today as it was decades ago, when the Grand Trunk's first train steamed into town," said Acting Mayor Williams. "We are now committed to preserving and expanding passenger train service for future generations." VIA's Brockville Station Project is linked with other work now or soon to be underway throughout the Quebec-Windsor Corridor, which generates almost 90% of VIA's ridership and 75% of its revenue. In combination, these projects will allow for increases in safety, frequencies and on-time performance, as well as reductions in travel time. Major upgrading work is also underway on key elements of VIA's locomotive and rolling stock fleets for corridor, transcontinental and remote service. Other infrastructure projects are aimed at improving service quality and cost efficiency at other points across VIA's coast-to-coast route network. These upgrades are part of an unprecedented $923 million capital investment in passenger rail modernization and expansion by the Government of Canada that is stimulating job creation, skills development and private sector activity across the country. (VIA Rail Canada - posted 11/12) RAILMARK SELLS MICHIGAN RAILROAD: Railmark Holdings, Inc. announced today that it sold its Michigan Air-Line Railway Co. to Nebraska-based Browner Turnout Co. The Oakland County Michigan railroad serves the communities of West Bloomfield, Commerce Township, Walled Lake and Wixom and is the home of the iconic Star Clipper Dinner Train®, the first dinner train in North America, now in its 25th season. Browner Turnout Co. becomes the fifth owner of the rail line in 123 years. The price and terms of the sale are not being disclosed by the Company, however, Railmark is using the transaction to eliminate its long-term debt, redeem a majority of its Preferred Stock, and provide working capital for upcoming acquisitions. Railmark will be relocating its corporate headquarters sometime in 1st quarter 2010. The Company’s Rail Entertainment USA Inc., Railmark Track Works Inc. and Rail Freight Solutions Inc. subsidiaries will retain active operating locations and employees in Michigan. Railmark will be providing certain transitional services to the railroad’s new owner after the sale. This transaction does not affect the Star Clipper Dinner Train’s remaining 2009 schedule. The transaction increases Railmark’s financial and management capacity, allowing the Company to focus more on its domestic track construction and maintenance business, its international railroad projects and the launch of its new ECORail Products Inc. line of environmentally safe products for the railroad and utility industries. (Railmark - posted 11/12) AAR REPORTS RAIL TRAFFIC DOWN, INCREMENTAL IMPROVEMENT IN INTERMODAL TRFFIC: The Association of American Railroads today reported that freight rail traffic remains down for the week ended Nov. 7, 2009. U.S. railroads reported originating 274,846 carloads for the week, down 12.2 percent compared with the same week in 2008 and down 19.6 percent from the same week in 2007. In order to offer a complete picture of the progress in rail traffic, AAR will now be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over comparisons for both 2008 and 2007. In the West, carloads were down 12.5 percent compared with the same week last year, and 19.6 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 11.9 percent compared with 2008, and 19.6 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Intermodal traffic showed incremental improvement from Week 43, totaling 206,890 trailers and containers, down 9.5 percent from a year ago and 15.2 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week in 2008, container volume fell 3.4 percent and trailer volume dropped 32.3 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 8.1 percent and trailer volume dropped 39.8 percent. While 15 of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down compared with the same week last year, increases were seen in grain (10 percent), nonmetallic minerals (2.8 percent), grain mill products (2.4 percent) and waste and scrap metal (1.6 percent). Declines in commodity groups ranged from 1.5 percent for farm products excluding grain to 34.2 percent for lumber and wood products. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending Nov. 7, 2009 was estimated at 31 billion ton-miles, down 11.5 percent compared with the same week last year and 14.7 percent from 2007. For the first 44 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 11,757,465 carloads, down 17.8 percent from 2008 and 18.3 percent from 2007; 8,380,530 trailers or containers, down 16.1 percent from 2008 and 18.6 percent from 2007, and total volume of an estimated 1.26 trillion ton-miles, down 16.8 percent from 2008 and 17 percent from 2007. Canadian railroads reported volume of 71,619 cars for the week, down 3.6 percent from last year, and 42,987 trailers or containers, down 10 percent from 2008. For the first 44 weeks of 2009, Canadian railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,728,332 carloads, down 20.7 percent from last year, and 1,806,746 trailers or containers, down 15.7 percent. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 11,418 cars, down 10.1 percent from the same week last year, and 6,643 trailers or containers, down 2.5 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 44 weeks of 2009 was reported as 505,855 carloads, down 11.9 percent from last year; and 238,168 trailers or containers, down 16.9 percent. Combined North American rail volume for the first 44 weeks of 2009 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 14,991,652 carloads, down 18.1 percent from last year, and 10,425,444 trailers and containers, down 16 percent from last year. (AAR - posted 11/12) NORFOLK SOUTHERN NAMED A TOP GREEN COMPANY: Norfolk Southern Corporation's sustainability initiatives have earned the company recognition as one of 25 green supply chain partners named by Inbound Logistics magazine. The magazine said its inaugural G25 list was created "to celebrate companies that are on the cutting edge of green; and we want to provide shippers with examples of how service providers are making the sustainability leap, and justification for why they are a cut above." Norfolk Southern was singled out for its "Green Machine," a carbon footprint analyzer that allows businesses to estimate the emissions savings of choosing rail transportation. The magazine also noted NS' investments to upgrade its locomotive fleet, making it the rail industry leader in achieving federal locomotive emissions standards. "Inbound Logistics is pleased to recognize Norfolk Southern as a Green Supply Chain Partner (G25) for 2009," said Keith Biondo, the magazine's publisher. "The recognition is in part for Norfolk Southern's sustainable supply chain vision, but most importantly for providing practical real-world services and solutions helping leading logistics practitioners achieve their sustainability goals." (NS, Randy Kotuby - posted 11/11) VETERANS DAY OBSERVED IN GRAND CENTRAL NOVEMBER 11, AT 11 A.M.: A traditional and reverential ceremony will be observed in the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal this Veterans Day, November 11 at 11 a.m. Employees of MTA Metro-North Railroad who have served in the American armed services present the American flag, the Pledge of Allegiance, the playing of taps, and the laying of a wreath. Accompanying this will be the sound of bagpipes echoing through the 22,000 square foot, landmarked main concourse. Remarks by MTA Metro-North Railroad's President Howard Permut will be delivered—honoring the railroad's loyal veterans, and remembering those who have faithfully served and are no longer with us. The bustling crowds of the thousands of ever-present passers-by, comes to a halt as respect and deference is paid to those who have served this country. Grand Central Terminal itself is a grand veteran—serving two World Wars, providing troop transportation for millions, and war material movements of massive armaments (in fact it handled 80% of such movements in the northeast). The East Balcony provided a USO center for rest and refreshment areas for troops on the move. There were special ticket windows to buy War Bonds and a dedicated area of the terminal—now known as the "kissing room"—for home-bound troops to meet their loved ones. Hollywood honored Grand Central's war effort with such films as the Academy Award winning "Since You Went Away," "I'll be Seeing You," and "Without Reservations (MTA - posted 11/10) CANADIAN PACIFIC SALUTES FALLEN SOLDIERS: On November 11th, network-wide, all Canadian Pacific and Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad trains will safely halt at 11AM local time, observe two minutes of respect in silence and then sound a long train whistle in tribute. A Remembrance Day and Veterans Day service will also be held at CP's headquarters in Calgary. "On this day, Canadian Pacific will recognize the contributions our employees made in times of war. On land, at sea and in the air, at home and abroad, the company, its people, its resources, its ingenuity and expertise were needed," said Fred Green, Canadian Pacific President and CEO. "These brave men and women are a legacy and an inspiration, as are those 44 CP employees who are today listed military reservists." Canadian Pacific has been touched by the tragic impacts of World War I and World War II. Over 33 thousand CP employees served in the last century's two world wars. Sadly, 1,774 employees died in battle. In the two World Wars combined, 24 of 74 CP ships were lost to enemy action. In the air, CP pioneered the transatlantic delivery of bombers to Britain. At home, Canadian Pacific's efforts included transporting troops, supplies and equipment in addition to making its shops available for the output of Valentine tanks, engines for frigates and landing craft, naval vessel power equipment components, naval guns, anti-submarine devices and fire-control equipment. The tradition of service continues today, with 44 Canadian and American employees currently listed as reservists. In Canada, CP moves Canadian Forces' equipment and is one of Canada's most supportive employers of primary Reserve Force personnel. In the United States, CP is a proud partner of the US Army PaYS program, which recruits soldiers interested in obtaining a quality civilian job following service to their country. These brave men and women will be recognized at CP's Remembrance and Veteran's Day ceremony. Canadian Pacific executives, employees, Police Service officers, pensioners, members of the Canadian Forces Calgary Highlanders Calgary 41st Brigade Group, and the Navy League Cadet Corps will recognize their service at a special ceremony at CP's Calgary Head Office, next to the Steam Locomotive. (CP, Randy Kotuby - posted 11/10) MTA APPOINTS NEW TRANSIT PRESIDENT: Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chairman and CEO Jay H. Walder today announced the appointment of Thomas F. Prendergast as President of MTA New York City Transit (NYCT). Prendergast joins NYCT from Vancouver, where he is the CEO of the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority, known as TransLink. A world-renowned transit expert, Prendergast is no stranger to the MTA, previously serving as President of MTA Long Island Rail Road and Senior Vice President of Subways at NYCT. Prendergast will assume his new role on December 1. He replaces Howard H. Roberts, who resigned yesterday. "Tom is a leader who brings an extraordinary variety of experiences from around the world to a system that he already knows extremely well," said Walder. "Tom's work running one of the most technologically sophisticated systems in Vancouver will be invaluable as we take the MTA to the next level in performance and customer service." Prendergast, 57, brings more than 30 years of transportation experience to NYCT. He began his career at the Chicago Transit Authority and worked at the Federal Transit Administration before joining NYCT in 1982. He rose through the ranks, eventually running the subway system from 1990 to 1994. He then served as President of MTA Long Island Rail Road from 1994 to 2000. He joined TransLink in July 2008 after working in the private sector for eight years. During his time in the private sector, Prendergast worked in the engineering and construction management consultation sector and was directly involved in the delivery of transportation infrastructure and construction projects. "It is a tremendous honor to return home to lead the outstanding men and women who run one of the world's great transit systems," said Prendergast. "I look forward to working with Jay Walder to implement the customer service improvements that New Yorkers deserve. Running New York City Transit is one of the great challenges and honors in the profession, and I will bring all of my energy and passion to the job." Prendergast holds a B.S. in Socio-Technological Systems Engineering from the University of Illinois and is a graduate of the Harvard Program for State and Local Government Executives. (MTA - posted 11/09) GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND VIA RAIL ANNOUNCE NEW STATION FOR OSHAWA: At a ceremony in Oshawa, Ontario, Colin Carrie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa; Oshawa Mayor John Gray, and Mr. Pierre Santoni, VIA Rail's National Sales Director, announced VIA's plans for a new station with improved and expanded facilities. VIA estimates that it will invest as much as $7 million for the new station and related improvements from recent capital funding for VIA announced by the Government of Canada. Of the project's total cost, $3 million will come from the government's Economic Action Plan. "Investment in a new VIA station for Oshawa will not only create new jobs and stimulate the economy but also allow VIA to provide better service to its local customers," said MP Carrie. "By investing in rail services and facilities such as those here in Oshawa, our government is stimulating economic activity and job creation, contributing to environmental sustainability and improving Canada's passenger rail system for years to come." VIA's Pierre Santoni added, "The investments here in Oshawa and across our coast-to-coast route network will create a top-notch passenger rail service. A rail service that is safe, fast and sustainable. A rail service that is designed for Canadians in the 21st century. We are delighted that the citizens of Oshawa are going to be a part of this new era in rail travel." VIA's new Oshawa station will be fully-accessible and adjacent to the existing building. VIA is currently studying options for the design of the new station, with the final design to be selected early next year. The new Oshawa station will replace a structure originally built by the Canadian National Railway in the 1960s and expanded by VIA in the 1990s. VIA's previously-announced, $300 million Kingston Subdivision Project will add sections of new main line track and will include rearranging the track layout in some locations to increase safety, train frequency and service reliability. In Oshawa, this involves adding one new main line track and a second platform, as well as reconfiguring the track layout. This cannot be done while still making use of the existing station. "Oshawa's connection with and affection for the railways goes back to 1856, when the Grand Trunk's first train steamed into town," said Mayor Gray. "It brought with it so many opportunities for this city to grow and prosper. I'm convinced these VIA projects can and will do the same today." VIA's Oshawa Station Project is linked with other work now or soon to be underway throughout the Quebec-Windsor Corridor, which generates almost 90% of VIA's ridership and 75% of its revenue. In combination, these projects will allow for increases in VIA train safety, frequencies, on-time performance, as well as reductions in travel time. Major upgrading work is also underway on key elements of VIA's locomotive and rolling stock fleets for corridor, transcontinental and remote service. Other infrastructure projects are aimed at improving service quality and cost efficiency at other points across VIA's coast-to-coast route network. These upgrades are part of an unprecedented $923 million capital investment in passenger rail modernization and expansion by the Government of Canada that is stimulating job creation, skills development and private sector activity across the country. (VIA Rail Canada - posted 11/09) J.B. HUNT TRANSPORT SERVICES, INC. ANNOUNCES EASTERN RAIL DEAL J. B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., announced today that it has reached an agreement with Norfolk Southern Corp. (NSC) to develop a new intermodal transportation contract to provide both parties a platform to accelerate the conversion of traditional truck traffic to cost effective, environmentally friendly intermodal transportation with service that is competitive with truckload moves. This multi-year agreement will further establish the parties as the leading providers of transcontinental and local intermodal service in the eastern half of the United States. “Given the enormous confidence we have in the Norfolk Southern’s ability to provide the best intermodal service in the Eastern half of the U.S. and the obvious commitment NSC has made by the significant investments in their corridor development, we are delighted to have the opportunity to elevate our joint services into the future” said Kirk Thompson, CEO of JBHT. “This new agreement will provide unparalleled intermodal service and value for U.S. shippers. The conversion of highway freight to the more efficient, cost effective, safer and more environmentally friendly services that we jointly provide, will not only benefit shippers and the general public, but JBHT and NSC shareholders alike.” “Our new services with J. B. Hunt will provide shared incentives to grow volume and revenues by converting substantial volumes of freight from highway to rail”, said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. “We look forward to working with the J.B. Hunt team to offer new, high-speed, reliable, premium services to domestic intermodal customers over our entire network, including our new Crescent Corridor route, from New England, northern New Jersey and Pennsylvania south to Memphis and New Orleans. This strengthened relationship between NSC and JBHT will offer significant benefits to shippers, communities, states and the country by reducing highway congestion, fuel consumption and emissions.(JB Hunt - posted 11/06) CANADIAN NATIONAL'S GREEN WOOD PELLET TRAFFIC: CN - North America's largest mover of forest products - is on track to haul more than 800,000 tons of wood pellets (http://www.cn.ca/woodpellets) this year and sees more opportunities in the future for this "green" source of heating energy. "Since 2005, we have experienced a 16 per cent compounded annual growth in our wood pellet traffic, and we see growing potential for this business in domestic and international markets," said James Foote, executive vice-president, Sales and Marketing. "Wood pellets are a renewable resource, right in our backyard," Foote added. "Our network has direct access to wood pellet production areas and reaches key consumption markets in eastern Canada and the northeastern U.S., as well as key export terminals on the Pacific, Atlantic and Gulf coasts." Major power plants and residential consumers in North America, Europe and Asia are turning to wood pellets as an alternative to fuel oil, gas or electricity to heat homes. In addition, wood pellets are being used increasingly in industrial applications such as district heating plants, greenhouses, and cement and aluminum production facilities. Wood pellets, made from waste wood such as wood shavings and sawdust, are carbon neutral and do not contribute to global warming because they emit the lowest greenhouses gases of any fuel burned. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has endorsed wood pellet heat as one of the cleanest burning, most renewable energy sources on the planet. Global wood pellet production in 2008 was almost 11 million tons, and some analysts believe worldwide production could double by 2014. North American consumption is expected to exceed 3.3 million tons in 2010. Ontario Power Generation (OPG) -- one of North America's largest producers of electricity -- is studying conversion of some coal-fired generating units to agricultural and forest-based biomass. OPG is targetting 2012 for the first conversion - the Atikokan station in northwestern Ontario. CN serves the plant. Canada's 29 wood pellet plants have a combined production capacity of approximately 2.2 million tons. Most producers are located in British Columbia, with some in Alberta and a few in Quebec. Facilities are also opening on CN lines in Wisconsin and Mississippi this year, and the first major Ontario producers are expected to start production in 2010. CN's network reach and solid service are critical factors in the growth of a number of wood pellet producers: Granules LG, located in Saint-Felicien in Quebec's Lac Saint-Jean region, is building a rail connection into its plant, which will allow direct rail loading instead of trucking to a nearby reload facility. Direct access to CN will lower the producer's transportation costs and improve its competitiveness in the market. Pinnacle Pellet Inc. operates five plants in British Columbia, all located on CN's network. CN's network reach enables this producer to ship product for export via the ports of Prince Rupert and Vancouver, and to reach domestic markets across Canada, the U.S. Midwest and northeast. Wood pellets are one of CN's expanding sustainable energy business segments, which include biodiesel, ethanol and wind turbine components. CN, as a railway, can help play a key role in addressing climate change challenge. Rail emits six times less greenhouse gases (GHG) than heavy trucks. Plus, CN can move one tonne of freight 197 kilometres on just one litre of fuel. Using less fuel means fewer GHG emissions. Rail also relieves traffic congestion, improves mobility in urban areas, and can ease pressure to renew road infrastructure by taking goods off highways. (CN, Randy Kotuby - posted 11/06) NORFOLK SOUTHERN'S HOLIDAY OPERATION SCHEDULE: In observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, Norfolk Southern will curtail (non-intermodal) freight operations beginning 7:00 A.M. on Thursday, November 26, 2009 and resume full operations at 7:00 A.M. on Friday, November 27. Interline gateways will remain open for traffic delivered from connecting carriers and passenger trains will continue to operate through the Holiday.(NS - posted 11/06) AMTRAK CHAIRMAN APPOINTS NEW INSPECTOR GENERAL: After a three month comprehensive national search, Amtrak Chairman Thomas Carper today announced his appointment of Theodore (Ted) Alves as Amtrak’s new Inspector General. Mr. Alves recently retired from 35 years of federal service, including serving as the Deputy Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) from 2006 to 2009 where he was responsible for supervising audits and investigations of federal transportation agencies. His start date is still being determined. “Ted Alves is highly respected in the inspector general community and will provide the leadership, integrity, independence and objectivity required for the position,” Carper said. From 2001 to 2006, Mr. Alves held three progressively responsible executive positions at the U.S. DOT, culminating in the position of Principal Assistant IG for Audits and Evaluations. He also has extensive audit experience at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Government Accountability Office, where he spent 22 years. In addition, he is a 2009 recipient of a Presidential Rank Award presented for his exceptional service to the American people and in recognition of his “sustained extraordinary achievement.” Carper appointed Mr. Alves after naming a Selection Committee chaired by Amtrak board member Nancy A. Naples and comprised of Amtrak board vice chairman Donna McLean and two prominent former inspectors general, Ken Mead from the U.S. DOT and Gaston Gianni from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The Selection Committee sought and received input from the Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE), and the chairman engaged a leading executive search firm to assist with the process. Nearly 200 applicants were considered for the position. (Amtrak - posted 11/05) AAR REPORTS RAIL TRAFFIC IS DOWN: The Association of American Railroads today said that freight rail traffic remains down for the week ended Oct. 31, 2009. U.S. railroads reported originating 275,439 carloads for the week, down 13.7 percent compared with the same week in 2008 and down 18.2 percent from 2007. In order to offer a complete picture of the progress in rail traffic, AAR will be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over comparisons for both 2008 and 2007 going forward. In the West, carloads were down 14.3 percent compared with the same week last year, and 18.3 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 12.9 percent compared with 2008, and 18.0 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Intermodal traffic totaled 203,860 trailers and containers, down 11.1 percent from a year ago and 15.5 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week in 2008, container volume fell 5.4 percent and trailer volume dropped 32.3 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 8.9 percent and trailer volume dropped 38.6 percent. While 15 of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down compared with the same week last year, increases were seen in grain mill products (9.9 percent), chemicals (3.6 percent), and waste and scrap metal (.7 percent and nonmetallic minerals (.3 percent). Declines in commodity groups ranged from 2.2 percent for the all other carloads category to 55.6 percent for metallic ores. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending Oct. 31, 2009 was estimated at 31 billion ton-miles, down 12.7 percent compared with the same week last year and 13.2 percent from 2007. For the first 43 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 11,482,619 carloads, down 17.9 percent from 2008 and 18.3 percent from 2007; 8,173,640 trailers or containers, down 16.2 percent from 2008 and 18.6 percent from 2007, and total volume of an estimated 1.23 trillion ton-miles, down 17 percent from 2008 and 17.1 percent from 2007. Canadian railroads reported volume of 71,023 cars for the week, down 8.7 percent from last year, and 42,869 trailers or containers, down 12.2 percent from 2008. For the first 43 weeks of 2009, Canadian railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,656,713 carloads, down 21.1 percent from last year, and 1,763,759 trailers or containers, down 15.8 percent. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 12,952 cars, down 17.2 percent from the same week last year, and 7,087 trailers or containers, down .5 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 43 weeks of 2009 was reported as 494,437 carloads, down 11.9 percent from last year; and 231,525 trailers or containers, down 17.2 percent. Combined North American rail volume for the first 43 weeks of 2009 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 14,633,769 carloads, down 18.3 percent from last year, and 10,168,924 trailers and containers, down 16.2 percent from last year. (AAR - posted 11/05) INVISTA AND CSX TRANSPORTATION DEDICATE NEW RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE: INVISTA, a global manufacturer of chemical intermediates, polymers and fibers, and CSX Transportation, Inc. (CSXT) celebrated the expansion of rail tracks and other infrastructure in a ceremony today at INVISTA's Spartanburg plant. The capital investment will result in increased efficiency and improved customer service. CSXT and INVISTA worked together to complete the rail expansion project that will facilitate more efficient delivery and pick up of rail cars. With this recently completed project, INVISTA gained the capacity needed to switch its own rail cars at its facility, creating greater switching flexibility and control within the plant. CSXT now has the ability to serve the plant without interruption from passing trains on the CSXT main line. Both CSXT and INVISTA expect improved customer service from the completed project. Work began last year to significantly rework and expand the track layout at the INVISTA manufacturing facility where CSXT delivers and picks up rail cars. The new layout eliminates interference with passing trains, expands holding tracks for INVISTA rail cars, and allows INVISTA to benefit from a new facility for the direct transfer of products from rail cars to trucks. CSXT re-aligned its main line to provide the space needed for the storage and switching tracks. In all, nearly 26,000 feet of new track was built. "This is an innovation that will increase flexibility of the site and make logistics processes even more efficient," said Phil Rine, director of logistics sourcing for INVISTA's Polymer & Resins business, at a dedication ceremony today attended by executives of both companies. "INVISTA and CSXT worked together to identify and implement the right solution, and completed the project on time, under budget, and without any safety incidents." "While the industries in which we operate have experienced economic challenges, this investment and partnership with CSX will enhance our ability to compete," said Juan Flores, INVISTA Spartanburg site manager. "I am extremely proud of both the INVISTA and CSX project teams and want to offer my sincere gratitude and congratulations." (CSXT - posted 11/04) BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY INC. TO ACQUIRE BURLINGTON NORTHERN SANTA FE CORPORATION (BNSF) FOR $100 PER SHARE IN CASH AND STOCK: The boards of directors of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation today announced a definitive agreement for Berkshire Hathaway to acquire for $100 per share in cash and stock the remaining 77.4 percent of outstanding BNI shares not currently owned to increase its holdings to 100 percent. Based on the number of outstanding BNI shares (including shares currently owned by Berkshire) on Nov. 2, 2009, the transaction is valued at approximately $44 billion, including $10 billion of outstanding BNSF debt, making it the largest acquisition in Berkshire Hathaway history. “Our country’s future prosperity depends on its having an efficient and well-maintained rail system,” said Warren E. Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway chairman and chief executive officer. “Conversely, America must grow and prosper for railroads to do well. Berkshire’s $34 billion investment in BNSF is a huge bet on that company, CEO Matt Rose and his team, and the railroad industry. “Most important of all, however, it’s an all-in wager on the economic future of the United States,” said Mr. Buffett. “I love these bets.” “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to become a part of the Berkshire Hathaway family,” said Matthew K. Rose, Burlington Northern Santa Fe chairman, president and chief executive officer. “We admire Warren’s leadership philosophy supporting long-term investment that will allow BNSF to focus on future needs of our railroad, our customers and the U.S. transportation infrastructure. This transaction offers compelling value to our shareholders and is in the best interests of all of our constituents including our customers and employees.” (BNSF - posted 11/03) VIA RAIL CANADA ANNOUNCES MAYOR'S GREEN EXPRESS: In association with the Ontario Parks Association, Communities in Bloom and Landscape Ontario, VIA Rail Canada is proud to host the Mayors' Green Express on Monday, January 11, 2010. Two trains - one originating in Ottawa and one originating in Windsor - will transport area mayors and other elected officials to Toronto for a green conference which is intended to celebrate, educate and advocate for Ontario's parks and green spaces. "We are delighted to be partnering with VIA Rail in bringing together municipal leaders from across the Province to our Green Forum," said Denis Flanagan, Chair, Communities in Bloom Ontario and Public Relations Director for Landscape Ontario. "We know that the networking and sharing of ideas on the enhancement and protection of green spaces results in a positive impact and benefits communities in their social, economic and environmental goals for future generations." The mayors' journey by train will set the tone for the Green Eggs, Green Communities and Green Parks Congress. "Toronto is recognized throughout the world as a leading city when it comes to fighting climate change and taking steps to reduce green house gas emissions," said Toronto Mayor David Miller. "I'm pleased that VIA Rail Canada is providing my colleagues from across the province with an opportunity to get to Toronto on environmentally friendly mass transit. It not only sets the right tone for the Congress, it's a fun way to travel." Widely recognized as one of the most responsible modes of public transportation in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, VIA is committed to continuously improving its environmental performance. Since 1990, VIA has cut fuel consumption by 25% per passenger-kilometre, and GHG emissions by 15%. VIA has also begun a series of modifications and improvements to its equipment and operations in order to further reduce its ecological footprint. "For several years now, VIA has worked closely with Communities in Bloom to showcase their efforts particularly throughout the spring and summer seasons. We are proud to be working with them once again to welcome mayors and elected officials from across Ontario on board the train," said Pierre Santoni, VIA's Senior Director of National Sales. "Our mandate is to provide an environmentally responsible transportation option; one that has the potential to play an increasingly important role as we work to create an even greener future for our children and grandchildren". (VIA Rail Canada - posted 11/03) NORFOLK SOUTHERN ANNOUNCES INVESTMENT IN THE PHILADELPHIA NAVY YARD INTERMODAL FACILITY: Norfolk Southern and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are investing $11 million in the railroad’s Philadelphia Navy Yard intermodal facility to expand track and parking capacity. The expansion is part of Norfolk Southern’s multi-state Crescent Corridor initiative to establish a high-speed intermodal freight rail route between the Gulf Coast and the Northeast. The proposed investment – $6 million from Norfolk Southern and $5 million from Pennsylvania – will create the capacity to handle more than 72,000 containers and trailers annually. Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-2010. “Because of its strategic location to Southeastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey, and Delaware, expansion of the Philadelphia Navy Yard intermodal facility is critical to the success of our Crescent Corridor,” said Wick Moorman, Norfolk Southern’s chief executive officer. “We commend Gov. Ed Rendell for his efforts to provide state funding for our intermodal terminal initiatives in the commonwealth. We want to thank Sens. Robert Casey and Arlen Specter for their support of a public-private partnership with the U.S. Dept. of Transportation so that Pennsylvania will benefit from the economic development opportunities and job growth potential of integrated logistics hubs. We also want to express our gratitude to the members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation who support the Crescent Corridor, including Reps. Bob Brady, Charlie Dent, Chakah Fattah, Jim Gerlach, Tim Holden, Patrick Murphy, Todd Platts, Allyson Schwartz, and Bill Shuster. Finally, we express our appreciation to Mayor Michael Nutter and the region’s economic development agencies and authorities for their efforts to improve freight transportation infrastructure in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley.” “Rail freight is an important component of any transportation infrastructure discussion,” Governor Edward G. Rendell said. “The Philadelphia Navy Yard intermodal facility will serve Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, creating good jobs, generating revenue locally, and helping reduce highway congestion. Pennsylvania has invested heavily in rail freight because it is a smart, environmentally friendly, cost-effective infrastructure investment. I will continue to advocate for rail freight investments at the state and national level.” "Philadelphia has been a rail transportation hub for the Mid-Atlantic region for more than 100 years," said Mayor Michael Nutter. "With this $11 million investment, Norfolk Southern's intermodal terminal at the Navy Yard will benefit shippers and consumers in the city and lead to further economic development opportunities in the Philadelphia area." Norfolk Southern’s Crescent Corridor initiative is a multistate network of infrastructure improvements and facilities intended to enhance Norfolk Southern’s 2,500-mile rail network that supports the supply chain from the Gulf Coast and Memphis to Harrisburg, Philadelphia, and the New York metropolitan area and enable it to handle more freight traffic faster and more reliably. The railroad is in the process of implementing corridor projects, including straightening curves, adding passing tracks, improving signal systems, and building new terminals. Altogether, nearly $2.5 billion in Crescent Corridor projects have been identified, and based on the public benefits of relief from highway congestion, NS plans to implement the Crescent Corridor initiative through a series of public-private partnerships. At completion, the Crescent Corridor is projected to divert more than 1 million truckloads of freight from the highways to the rails annually, saving the U.S. more than 170 million gallons of fuel per year. When the Crescent Corridor is fully operational, annual benefits to Pennsylvania are expected to include nearly 700,000 long-haul trucks diverted to rail, almost 10 million gallons of fuel saved, carbon dioxide reduction of 110,000 tons, more than $44 million in traffic congestion savings, and avoidance of an estimated $8.5 million in accident costs. Over the next 10 years 26,000 jobs in Pennsylvania are expected to be created or enhanced by the Crescent Corridor. Norfolk Southern is constructing a new $95 million intermodal facility in Franklin County, Pa., and has $52 million in improvements planned for its existing Harrisburg intermodal terminal, along with $27 million in track and signal upgrades in Berks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, and Northampton counties. Rail intermodal traffic uses one-third of the fuel required by long-haul trucks and greatly reduces highway congestion, greenhouse gas emissions, and highway maintenance costs. The Crescent Corridor will help the environment and reduce a large burden on state budgets. (Norfolk Southern Corporation - posted 11/02) SEPTA EMPLOYEES CONTINUE TO NEGOTIATE A NEW CONTRACT: SEPTA and the Transport Workers Union Local 234 have agreed to continue contract negotiations with no threat of a work stoppage. After the intervention of Governor Rendell, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and Congressman Bob Brady, both negotiating teams met in the Governor's office and have agreed to continue negotiations until a tentative contract agreement is reached. All special SEPTA service scheduled for the Philadelphia Sports Complex in the days ahead will operate as scheduled. (SEPTA - posted 10/31) VIA RAIL CANADA TO BOOST FAMED TRANSCONTINENTAL TRAIN'S ACCESSIBILITY AND APPEAL: VIA Rail Canada today announced a $19.5 million program for the reconfiguration of 12 of the stylish stainless steel passenger cars used on its western transcontinental train, the Canadian, to increase its accessibility and market appeal. The work is being funded from the $407 million allocated for passenger rail improvements under the Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan. "It gives me great pleasure to announce the complete redesign and rebuilding of these cars," said VIA President and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Cote. The contract for the rebuilding of VIA's eight Chateau sleeping cars and four Park sleeper-dome-lounge cars has been awarded to Avalon Rail, Inc., of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Avalon Rail specializes in remanufacturing passenger rolling stock of all types. The company will use various Canadian engineering, design and supply firms for a portion of the project. The cars will be delivered in 2011. Mr. Cote added, "Avalon Rail was selected for this demanding work through a competitive bidding process based on numerous factors. These included price, craftsmanship, a detailed knowledge of the equipment to be rebuilt and on-time completion of previous projects." "We are honoured to undertake this work for VIA," said June Garland, president of Avalon Rail. "The Canadian is a living legend, offering thousands of travellers from around the world the ultimate in safe, stylish and sustainable rail travel every year for more than a half-century. I can think of no better showcase for the skills of Avalon's dedicated craftspeople." The work involved in the modernization and major upgrading of this classic rolling stock is extensive. The eight Chateau sleeping cars will be reconfigured with an all-new arrangement of six upscale cabins designed to accommodate up to three passengers each. Each sleeping cabin will be completely self-contained and will include an en-suite washroom plus a separate shower. The new cabins will also feature wood paneling, sofa seating, a widescreen television and controls to enable passengers to raise or lower the beds whenever they desire. This elegant new design has been selected to enable VIA's Canadian to attract the growing clientele for more upscale travel experiences. This program will also substantially increase the train's accessibility for travellers with special needs. The four existing Park car bedrooms will be replaced by two large upscale cabins. One will be identical to those in the rebuilt Chateau sleeping cars. The other will be an extra-large, fully-accessible cabin. It will provide separate, fully-accessible washroom and shower facilities. Each Park car will also feature an onboard wheelchair lift. (VIA Rail Canada - posted 10/30) PHILLIES VS YANKEES MEANS IT’S AN AMTRAK SERIES: Amtrak put their Northeast Corridor passengers into the spirit of the upcoming Amtrak Series today by polling passengers on board two trains running between New York and Philadelphia about their baseball team preferences. The fans polled aboard Amtrak Acela Express trains #2165 and #2170 chose the New York Yankees over the Philadelphia Phillies by a 1.7-to-one margin. Participating passengers were given their team’s official Championship Series t-shirt for voicing their preference. Three hundred thirty-four (334) passengers received Yankee tee-shirts, and 197 passengers favored the Phillies tee-shirts. For all baseball fans, a World Series involving two east coast powerhouses means that Amtrak is the best way for fans to travel to the games. Few American icons have a history as closely linked as that of baseball and train travel. From the beginning of “the national pastime,” baseball players have traveled by train. When the Phillies and Yankees met in 1950, the teams traveled by train, and for this year’s World Series, appropriately dubbed the Amtrak Series, the most convenient and comfortable way for fans and players to travel is on board Amtrak. Amtrak offers three services between New York and Philadelphia – Acela Express, Northeast Regional, and Keystone. There are 15 Acela Express frequencies in each direction, 21 Northeast Regional frequencies in each direction, and 10 Keystone frequencies in each direction every weekday, making it convenient for Phillies and Yankee fans to travel to see their teams. Reservations can be made online at Amtrak.com or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL. Amtrak Guest (Amtrak - posted 10/29) AMTRAK AIMS TO CONTINUE GROWTH WITH NEW STRATEGIC GUIDANCE AND FIVE YEAR PLAN: With the release of new Strategic Guidance and the FY 2010-2014 Five Year Financial Plan, Amtrak aims to continue the solid ridership growth seen in recent years and position itself to maximize this historic moment in federal and state support for more passenger rail service, including for the development of high-speed rail corridors. “Amtrak is moving into the future with clear goals and specific initiatives to secure and expand our leadership position in the increasingly competitive passenger rail industry,” said Thomas Carper, chairman of the Amtrak board of directors. Carper said the new Strategic Guidance sets the foundation for the FY 2010-2014 Five Year Financial Plan, and together they encompass the strategy for continuing Amtrak’s ridership growth that has increased steadily from 21.6 million in FY 2002 to 27.2 million in FY 2009, with an all-time record high of 28.7 million in FY 2008. “We must think big, be innovative and pursue opportunities and decisions that make good business sense because the competition is real,” said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph H. Boardman, stressing that he believes the national railroad’s experience and depth of expert knowledge are assets that make Amtrak the right choice to operate new or expanded service. The Strategic Guidance outlines the opportunities and challenges facing Amtrak in the new passenger rail environment where states have the primary role in developing new or expanded intercity and high-speed rail service. It establishes six broad goals to be safer, greener and healthier and to improve financial performance, customer service, and meet national needs. Plus, it creates key performance indicators to measure progress. The FY 2010-2014 Five Year Financial Plan for the first time provides substantially detailed financial projections for Amtrak’s revenue, operating costs, capital programs and debt (Amtrak - posted 10/29) AAR REPORTS RAILROADS CONTINUE TO POST WEAK CARLOAD, INTERMODAL NUMBERS: The Association of American Railroads today reported that rail traffic remains down year over year for the week ended Oct. 24, 2009. U.S railroads reported originating 276,357 carloads, down 14.8 percent compared with the same week in 2008 and 17.3 percent from 2007. It was around this time last year notable declines in rail carloads and rail intermodal traffic showed the first significant signs of the nation’s economic downturn. Therefore, the AAR will be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over comparisons for both 2008 and 2007 going forward. In the West, carloads were down 14.8 percent compared with the same week last year, and 15.8 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 14.8 compared with 2008, and 19.4 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Intermodal traffic totaled 207,401 trailers or containers, down 10.1 percent from a year ago and 14.5 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week last year, container volume fell 3.6 percent and trailer volume dropped 34.7 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 7.4 percent and trailer volume dropped 40.1 percent. While 17 of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from the same week last year, grain mill products were up 9.6 percent and grain was up 6.2 percent compared with the same week in 2008. Declines in commodity groups ranged from 1.9 percent for chemicals to 66.1 percent for metallic ores. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending October 24, 2009 was estimated at 31.1 billion ton-miles, down 13.4 percent compared with the same week last year and 11.1 percent from 2007. For the first 42 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 11,207,180 carloads, down 18 percent from 2008 and 18.3 percent from 2007; 7,969,780 trailers or containers, down 16.4 percent from 2008 and 18.3 percent from 2007, and total volume of an estimated 1.2 trillion ton-miles, down 17.1 percent from 2008 and 15 percent from 2007. Canadian railroads reported volume of 71,097 cars for the week, down 9.9 percent from last year, and 44,849 trailers or containers, down 13 percent from 2008. For the first 42 weeks of 2009, Canadian railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,585,690 carloads, down 21.4 percent from last year, and 1,720,890 trailers or containers, down 15.9 percent. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 12,447 cars, down 2 percent from the same week last year, and 7,412 trailers or containers, down 6.5 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 42 weeks of 2009 was reported as 481,056 carloads, down 12.6 percent from last year; and 225,008 trailers or containers, down 17.5 percent. Combined North American rail volume for the first 42 weeks of 2009 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 14,273,926 carloads, down 18.4 percent from last year, and 9,915,678 trailers and containers, down 16.3 percent from last year. (AAR - posted 10/29) VIA RAIL PLANS TO IMPROVE AND CONSTRUCT NEW TRAIN STATIONS: Canada's national passenger rail service is spending more than $40 million over the next two years for new railway stations around Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa and Windsor, Ont. as well as significant upgrades to existing stations in Vancouver, Saskatoon and other cities across the country, Canwest News Service has learned. Some of the details were revealed in a Via Rail employee newsletter released this month that provided a breakdown of new investments announced as part of the Harper government's stimulus plan. They include more than 140 projects at 62 locations to repair, upgrade or build stations for the Crown corporation around Canada. In some cases, multi-million dollar projects are already underway to rebuild platforms, repair roofs or upgrade heating systems in such locations as Vancouver, Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Halifax. Other cities such as Montreal, Windsor, Oshawa, near Toronto, and Smiths Falls, near Ottawa, are slated to have a brand new station in their region. (VIA Rail Canada - posted 10/28) NORFOLK SOUTHERN REPORTS THIRD QUARTER EARNINGS: For the third quarter of 2009, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC - News) reported net income of $303 million, or $0.81 per diluted share, compared with $520 million, or $1.37 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2008. "While our third-quarter results reflect the continuing weak economy, they also show Norfolk Southern's resilience and the strength of our franchise," said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. "By controlling costs and maintaining service levels, we are managing through this economic downturn and will emerge an even stronger company." Third-quarter railway operating revenues were $2.1 billion, down 29 percent, compared with the third quarter of 2008, primarily the result of a 20 percent reduction in traffic volume and lower fuel-related revenues. General merchandise revenues were $1.1 billion, 24 percent lower compared with the same period last year. Coal revenues declined 35 percent to $571 million compared with third-quarter 2008 results. Intermodal revenues decreased 31 percent to $389 million compared with the third quarter of last year. Railway operating expenses for the quarter were $1.5 billion, a decrease of 25 percent over the same period of 2008. The railway operating ratio was 72.8 percent, compared with 69.1 percent during third-quarter 2008. (NS - posted 10/27) NORFOLK SOUTHERN AND UP COMMENCE THE GULF COAST FLYER: Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern today introduced Gulf Coast Flyer, a rail service for the safe transport of chemicals between the Union Pacific-served southern Texas and Louisiana regions and Norfolk Southern destinations across the northeastern and southeastern United States. Gulf Coast Flyer is designed to build on improved routing and enhanced operations coordination between the two railroads, leaders in serving the chemical marketplace. This product promotes expedited service for customers between the Gulf Coast region and major markets across the Northeast and Southeast. Eastbound and westbound shipments between the two railroads connect at the Salem, Ill., and New Orleans, La., gateways. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern made a combined investment of $740 million in terminals, main lines, bridges and sidings along Gulf Coast Flyer lanes from 2006-08 to strengthen service and enhance safety and reliability. As a result, transit times for shipments moving in major joint lanes improved by more than 20 percent for shippers. At the same time, the consistency of service improved by 10 percent. “The investment in these lanes combined with increased coordination between our two railroads directly benefits our customers,” said Diane Duren, vice president and general manager of Chemicals for Union Pacific. “Transit times in these lanes are faster, which lowers inventory carrying costs for customers. It also allows them to turn their private equipment faster, getting better utilization from their assets. Service reliability also is improved, providing our customers with greater supply chain efficiencies.” In addition to the focus on improved service and coordination, the two railroads have worked to continue their focus on safety. An important part of that effort has been through ongoing training efforts with TRANSCAER (Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response), the voluntary national outreach effort to help communities prepare for and respond to a possible hazardous material transportation incident. Working with TRANSCAER, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have helped train more than 5,000 responders in communities along Gulf Coast Flyer lanes since 2006. “As we work together to offer a faster, more reliable product for customers, safety remains a primary focus for both of our teams,” said Joe Osborne, vice president - Chemicals for Norfolk Southern. “With Gulf Coast Flyer service, we offer the safety and environmental advantages of shipping by rail, along with the expedited transit and reliable service advantages customers require in these critical markets.” (NS - posted 10/27) CSXT AND UP HAVE INTRODUCED RAILCHEM CONNECT: Union Pacific Railroad and CSX Transportation (CSXT) are proud to announce the launch of RailChem Connect, a coordinated rail service for expedited transport of chemicals between the Texas Gulf Coast region and the Southeast. The new RailChem Connect service is the result of increased coordination and re-designed interline service by the two railroads for their chemicals market customers. The service allows shipments to bypass smaller rail yards for expedited transit between major hubs. These changes, along with increased operations coordination between the railroads, increase reliability of east- and west-bound service between Union Pacific-served chemical markets such as Houston, southern Texas and Louisiana, and CSXT-served consumption markets in the southeastern states. RailChem Connect offers more consistent transit times, faster equipment turns and a shorter route than previously available for chemical shipments in this corridor. "Our teams are coordinating efforts to focus on an improved service product for chemicals customers by reducing transit times and tightening the variability in our delivery, significantly improving reliability for customers," said Diane Duren, vice president and general manager of Chemicals for Union Pacific. The two railroads have reduced the transit time between major markets by 25 percent in the last three years while improving consistency by 23 percent. The improvements provide more reliable service, enabling chemicals customers to optimize their fleets of privately owned rail cars. Over the same three-year period, the railroads have made a significant combined investment in RailChem Connect lanes for new capacity and upgrading tracks and facilities. "In addition to the inherent safety and environmental advantages that rail offers shippers, RailChem Connect creates advantages for Union Pacific and CSXT customers that allow them to derive even more value from rail," said Dean Piacente, CSXT vice president-Chemicals & Fertilizer. "The increased coordination between our railroads results in improved transit and consistency, which translates into enhanced supply chain efficiency, a more balanced cycle for private rail equipment and bottom-line cost savings for our customers." (CSXT, Randy Kotuby - posted 10/27) AMTRAK REACHES UNDERSTANDING WITH METROLINK TO OPERATE LOS ANGELES AREA COMMUTER TRAINS: Amtrak and the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) are moving forward today with a Memorandum of Understanding for Amtrak to provide the train and engine crews needed to operate Metrolink commuter trains on all seven of its lines in the Los Angeles area beginning July 1, 2010. “Amtrak and its employees appreciate the confidence and trust Metrolink has placed in us to provide their passengers the highest standards of safety, efficiency and reliability,” said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph H. Boardman, adding the commuter rail system on average operates 149 trains and carries 43,000 riders every weekday. Boardman noted that among the reasons why SCRRA decided to enter into this MOU with Amtrak is because of the railroad’s unique qualifications and experience in intercity and commuter passenger rail operations, its present operation of intercity trains over four of the seven lines that comprise Metrolink service, its prior experience as the original operator of Metrolink trains from 1992 to 2005, and how its multiple safety programs will complement and enhance the safety efforts being undertaken by SCRRA. The MOU calls for a Final Agreement to be reached by December 31, 2009 and an initial four year contract with the potential for two additional three-year extensions. Within the next two weeks a Transition Team will hold its first meeting and SCRRA will issue a limited Notice to Proceed permitting Amtrak to begin the work required to complete mobilization and assume operations. Amtrak will work closely with SCRRA, Metrolink, and the current operator and its employees over the coming weeks and months to ensure a smooth transition. (Amtrak - posted 10/27) POLICE SECURITY CHECKPOINTS AT MARC STATIONS: Focused on enhancing security at MARC commuter rail stations along the Penn, Camden and Brunswick Lines, the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) police in partnership with security and canine teams from the Maryland Transportation Authority and the Transit Security Administration will begin random security screenings at stations beginning October 30, 2009. Screenings can potentially involve the check of luggage, packages, or other carry-on items customers may have in their possession. While every effort will be made to conduct the security checks in a timely fashion, customers should be prepared that extra time may be required to board their train. “The MTA continually engages in methods of ensuring customer safety and system preservation,” said Lt. Colonel John E. Gavrilis, Acting Chief of Police. “These exercises underscore our commitment to the safety and security of our customers and systems. If you hear, see or smell something suspicious, call 1-800-492-TIPS (8477). ” The MTA police thank customers for their patience and cooperation as the agency works to enhance security throughout the MARC system (Maryland MTA - posted 10/26) CANADIAN PACIFIC'S SUPPORT OF THE VANCOUVER 2010 OLYMPICS: Canadian Pacific today launched its Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games employee activation in Canada's Tournament Capital. CP is the Official Rail Freight Services Provider to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. "Canadian Pacific employees are uniquely qualified to move the Olympic Spirit," said Fred Green, Canadian Pacific President and CEO. "The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games provide us an international platform to showcase our abilities as North America's safest, and most reliable railroad." Almost 5,000 employees from across North America have signed their names to a specially designed 53-foot intermodal container, the CP Spirit Train Wall of Fame. Unveiled at today's event, the container will tour CP facilities across western Canada before moving to Vancouver in February 2010. The design showcases CP sponsored sports teams and incorporates the names of employees into notable terrain and architectural structures across the railway's network, including the Rocky Mountains and Lethbridge's High Level Bridge. A virtual version of the CP Spirit Train Wall of Fame, with a searchable name function, can be seen online at www.cpr.ca. Employees who signed their name to the CP Spirit Train Wall of Fame were automatically entered in an internal contest to win an all expenses-paid trip to the 2010 Winter Games for four. Tennile Haug, a clerk at Canadian Pacific's Crew Management Center, was announced today as the winner. "Thank you CP! I can't wait to share this Olympic experience in my own country with my friends and family," said Ms. Haug. Another 47 Canadian Pacific employees will also experience the 2010 Winter Games as volunteers. These employees were chosen through a rigorous internal selection process in which they detailed their involvement in the areas of community, sport and sustainability; the three pillars of the Olympic Movement. CP will pay expenses for those employees during their 2010 Winter Games experience. "I'll be working at the Richmond Olympic Oval during Games time with the full support of my company," said CP project manager Dan McGavock. "What a wonderful way for CP to recognize the volunteering we do in our communities year round." Hundreds of Canadian Pacific employees in Metro Vancouver and at CP's Network Management Centre will ensure freight trains and additional West Coast Express commuter trains run safely and reliably during the 2010 Winter Games. The Canadian Pacific Police Service is also supporting the Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit. Canadian Pacific employees have been working for months to coordinate and move construction and staging material needed for February. Tents, scaffolding, fencing, paint, scoreboards, ticket kiosks, hockey nets and bleachers are on their way to Vancouver from across North America and around the world. CP ensures these unique shipments arrive safely and reliably. Visible across Canada, 20 Canadian Pacific locomotives sporting the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games Emblem continuously represent CP's commitment to Canada's Games. They are part of a fleet of more than 200 fuel efficient GE Evolution Series locomotives, which are among the industry's most efficient and environmentally conscious, meeting stringent U.S. EPA Tier II emission standards. Canadian Pacific has supported Canadian Olympians since 1924, when Canada's gold medal winning hockey team returned from France on a Canadian Pacific steamship. CP was also an official supporter of the Montreal 1976 Olympic Summer Games and the Calgary 1988 Olympic Winter Games (CP, Randy Kotuby - posted 10/23) PORT AUTHORITY AWARDS NEW PATH SIGNAL SYSTEM CONTRACTS: Fulfilling a commitment to the PATH rail system’s long-term growth, the Port Authority’s Board of Commissioners today authorized more than $340 million worth of contracts to help replace antiquated mechanical train controls on the 101-year-old system with state-of-the-art, computerized signals. The overall signal project is expected to cost $580 million and is a major part of the Port Authority’s $3.3 billion plan to modernize the entire PATH system, an initiative that also includes a new 340-car train fleet and 10-car platforms on the Newark to World Trade Center line. PATH trains transported nearly 75 million riders in 2008 and the new signals, in tandem with other improvements, are designed to add up to 20-percent capacity to meet the system’s future peak-time demands, in addition to increasing safety and reliability while reducing ongoing maintenance costs. Today’s largest contract, worth $321 million, was awarded to the Siemen’s Team for the design, manufacture and installation of the new signal technology, as well as the removal of the old system. Siemen’s Team is a consortium of Siemens Transportation Systems, Safetran Systems Corp. and D/A Builders, LLC. A $21 million professional management contract also was awarded to Booz, Allen, Hamilton Inc. to help oversee the signal project. Additionally, a $2 million contract was awarded to The Rail Safety Consulting, LLC, which will provide an independent assessment and certification of safety standards for the project. PATH’s current signal technology is a century old and still uses key equipment put into service between the early 1900s and the 1940s. Relying on obsolete components has made it difficult to obtain spare parts, resulting in rising numbers of repairs, costs and service delays. Conversely, the new system, called Automatic Train Control (ATC), uses technology in newly designed transit systems as well as replacement of signals in older systems, like New York City Transit subways and the London Underground. ATC coordinates train movements via a computer-controlled radio network. Following a Los Angeles Metrolink fatal accident in 2008, the Federal Railroad Administration proposed legislation to make FRA-regulated rail lines install “Positive Train Control” technology to prevent train collisions, avoid derailments caused by excessive speeds and protect rail workers in track right-of-ways. The ATC system being adopted and installed by the Port Authority meets the requirements of the FRA’s pending legislation. Signals will be replaced throughout the PATH line’s 43 track miles and 13 stations, while the new communications equipment also will be installed inside 130 of the new PATH railcars that have an operating engineer’s cab. The project is slated to start later this year with design and field assessments made next year. Installation of equipment is expected to be ongoing by 2011, with testing of the new signals in 2013. Old signals will be removed as the new system becomes operational, with the project slated to be finished in 2017, though ongoing logistics coordination must be managed carefully to ensure that date is met given all of the other upgrades going on concurrently inside the PATH tunnels. "Our region's economic future is tied to building modern, efficient mass transit systems and today's action helps us meet that vital need," said Anthony Coscia, the Port Authority's chairman. "Replacing PATH's century-old signal system with state-of-the-art technology will result in more capacity and greater reliability, enhance passenger safety and help reduce our carbon footprint." Christopher O. Ward, the Port Authority’s executive director, said, “The Port Authority’s action today will reduce PATH delays, increase the number of trains that can be run at any given time and improve overall safety and cost efficiency as we bring a century-old system up to 21st Century standards.’’ “The new, state-of-the-art signal system will mean a better ride for commuters by allowing trains to travel closer together, saving time and increasing capacity by 20%,” said Susan Bass Levin, the agency’s deputy executive director. “That extra capacity will mean fewer people in automobiles, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions.” (Port Authority NY/NY, Alex Mayes - posted 10/23) AAR REPORTS WEEKLY RAIL TRAFFIC DOWN YEAR OVER YEAR: The Association of American Railroads today reported that rail traffic remains down year over year for the week ended Oct. 17, 2009. U.S railroads reported originating 275,545 carloads, down 15.4 percent compared with the same week in 2008. Regionally, carloads were down 14.2 percent in the West and 17 percent in the East. It was the same week last year that notable declines in rail carloads (2.4 percent) and rail intermodal (2.8 percent) traffic showed the first significant signs of the nation’s economic downturn. Therefore, year over comparisons for weekly rail traffic may appear to improve going forward. Intermodal traffic totaled 206,139 trailers or containers, down 12.6 percent from a year ago. In the year-over-year comparison container volume fell 6.7 percent and trailer volume dropped 35.2 percent. Eighteen of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from the same week last year. However, grain mill products were up 7.3 percent. Declines in commodity groups ranged from 2.7 percent for petroleum products to 74.7 percent for metallic ores. For the first 41 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 10,930,879 carloads, down 18.1 percent from 2008; 7,762,379 trailers or containers, down 16.5 percent, and total volume of an estimated 1.17 trillion ton-miles, down 17.1 percent. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending October 17 was estimated at 31 billion ton-miles, off 13.9 percent from the same week last year. Canadian railroads reported volume of 69,146 cars for the week, down 10.4 percent from last year, and 41,835 trailers or containers, down 11.3 percent. For the first 41 weeks of 2009, Canadian railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,514,593 carloads, down 21.7 percent from last year, and 1,676,041 trailers or containers, down 16 percent. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 12,293 cars, down 9.5 percent from the same week last year, and 7,027 trailers or containers, down 11.3 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 41 weeks of 2009 was reported as 468,609 carloads, down 12.9 percent from last year; and 217,596 trailers or containers, down 17.8 percent. Combined North American rail volume for the first 41 weeks of 2009 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 13,914,081 carloads, down 18.6 percent from last year, and 9,656,016 trailers and containers, down 16.5 percent from last year. (AAR- posted 10/22) CANADIAN NATIONAL ORDERS GE AND EMD LOCOMOTIVES: CN announced today orders for 70 new high-horsepower locomotives from GE Transportation, a unit of General Electric Co. (GE), and Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc. (EMD). CN will acquire 35 ES44DC locomotives from GE starting in the fourth quarter of 2010, and 35 SD70M-2s from EMD beginning in January 2011. The GE locomotives produce 4,400 horsepower and the EMDs 4,350 horsepower. The new units are part of CN’s multi-year locomotive-renewal program aimed at continuously increasing fuel efficiency, improving service reliability for its customers, and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions. The new locomotives are 15-20 per cent more fuel-efficient than the ones they will replace and will comply fully with the latest regulatory requirements for reduced locomotive exhaust emissions. In addition, the new GE and EMD locomotives will be equipped with distributed power (DP) capability. DP enables remote control of a locomotive or locomotives throughout a train from the lead control locomotive. DP provides faster, smoother train starts, improved braking and lower pulling forces at the head-end of a train. This enables CN to run fewer and more efficient trains and to take advantage of the productivity gains from its extended siding program. With more optimum matching of motive power to train weight, DP locomotives also allow CN to reduce fuel consumption and reduce emissions. (CN - posted 10/21) NORTHEAST CORRIDOR TRACKS RE-ENERGIZED: Amtrak is using $25 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to replace transformers and other electrical equipment — some of which date to before World War II — at 40 substations that deliver the power needed to propel passenger trains on the electrified tracks between New York and Washington, D.C. "Amtrak is re-energizing the Northeast Corridor tracks to make certain there is a reliable and uninterrupted flow of electricity to keep trains and passengers on the move," said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph Boardman, noting that this week a transformer in operation since 1934 is being replaced at the railroad's substation in Landover, Md. Boardman explained substations essentially take 138,000 volt electricity from the overhead transmission lines, lower it to 12,000 volts and then send it to the catenary wires located above the tracks to power the trains. He said in 2002 Amtrak embarked on a long-term program to upgrade and modernize 82 outdated substations along the Northeast Corridor. The need for the improvements was dramatically highlighted during a significant power failure and service disruption in May 2006 between New York and Washington, D.C. that left thousands of passengers stranded on trains. The ARRA funding is accelerating Amtrak's substation modernization program and is supporting projects located in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. For example, the work being done at the Landover substation this week was not slated to occur until 2013. Specifically, transformers in service for as long as 75 years are being removed and replaced with modern models that are more efficient, have less environmental impact, require reduced maintenance and provide increased reliability and redundancy. In addition, enhanced technology designed to self-monitor key substation operations is being installed to identify and alert technicians to potential issues before major problems arise. The electrical and installation work is being performed by Amtrak employees. Amtrak also received additional ARRA funding that is helping to reduce the backlog of infrastructure projects required to bring the Northeast Corridor closer to a state of good repair, such as the replacement and rehabilitation of several bridges, the installation of thousands of new railroad ties, and enhancing stations for better access by disabled persons. All ARRA-funded projects are to be completed by February 2011. (Amtrak - posted 10/20) CLAUDE MONGEAU APPOINTED A CN DIRECTOR: CN announced today that its Board of Directors has appointed Claude Mongeau as a director of the Company, effectively immediately. Mongeau, executive vice-president of CN, will succeed E. Hunter Harrison as CN president and chief executive officer on Jan. 1, 2010. Mongeau’s appointment increases the size of CN’s board to 12, of whom 10 are outside directors. Mongeau is also a director of SNC-Lavalin Group Inc. Separately, CN announced that its Board has approved a fourth-quarter 2009 dividend on the Company’s common shares outstanding. A quarterly dividend of 25.25 cents (C$0.2525) per common share will be paid on Dec. 31, 2009, to shareholders of record at the close of business on Dec. 10, 2009. (Canadian National - posted 10/20) PENNSAUKEN TRANSIT CENTER CONSTRUCTION BEGINS: NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Richard Sarles joined U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, Congressman Rob Andrews and other officials today to break ground on a project that will offer convenience and new travel options to South Jersey rail customers by directly linking the River Line with the Atlantic City Rail Line (ACRL). The $40 million Pennsauken Transit Center, accelerated with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding, will create or sustain hundreds of jobs and will for the first time provide thousands of customers with direct transfers and access to all stations on both lines. “New Jersey is building toward renewed economic strength and improved transit connections in southern New Jersey,” said Governor Jon S. Corzine. “When our nation’s economy was teetering, we intervened with an economic stimulus package that is creating jobs and putting paychecks into the hands of hard-working New Jersey residents.” “This groundbreaking is just one more example of how the Recovery Act is creating jobs and expanding mass transportation across the state,” stated Sen. Frank R. Lautenberg. “The Pennsauken Transit Center will help connect New Jersey’s railways and make our transportation network more efficient.” “This center is another example of what the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is doing to rebuild our infrastructure, stimulate the economy, create jobs and lay the foundation for long-term economic security," said U.S. Senator Robert Menendez. “It truly connects the dots – an intermodal system that will connect the 34,000 people of Pennsauken to NJ TRANSIT’s River LINE light rail service. That’s smart growth that will make our communities more livable and our transportation systems more efficient.” “The construction of the new Pennsauken Rail Center is another great example of how South Jersey is continuing to benefit from the Stimulus bill’s near $365 million investment in our region,” said Congressman Robert Andrews. “While our economic recovery will not occur overnight, the President’s plan to overhaul our country's transportation system has begun to set the course for economic prosperity by creating hundreds of local jobs while promoting cleaner, more efficient travel throughout our neighborhoods.” The transit center will be built in two phases along Derousse Avenue where the ACRL crosses above River Line tracks. “Thanks to Governor Corzine and our congressional delegation, New Jersey has the funding to create well-paying jobs at a critical point in our state’s path to economic recovery,” said Transportation Commissioner Stephen Dilts. “The jobs created here will help New Jersey working men and women support their families while building a lasting asset that will benefit South Jersey residents and visitors for decades to come.” Upon project completion at the end of 2012, Atlantic City Rail Line customers will have direct access to the River Line, with connections in Camden to PATCO rail and NJ TRANSIT bus service to Philadelphia, and in Trenton to NJ TRANSIT Northeast Corridor service to New York. River Line customers will have direct access to Atlantic City, Philadelphia and all intermediate ACRL stations. “The Pennsauken Transit Center will be a terrific asset for our residents and employers because it will promote greater use of environmentally friendly public transportation for leisure and work-related travel,” said Pennsauken Mayor Bill Orth. “This new transit center epitomizes our focus on expanding the reach of our transportation network through intermodal transit hubs,” Sarles said. “We are connecting light rail service that operates between Camden and Trenton with commuter rail service that carries customers between Atlantic City and Philadelphia, producing convenient access to all stations to customers of both lines.” Today’s ground breaking represents the start of the first phase of the project, a $2.1 million contract awarded to Northeast Remsco Coast, Inc., of Farmingdale NJ, with ARORA and Associates, PC, of Lawrenceville, NJ providing design services under the contract. Phase I covers River Line elements of the project, including construction of a 200-foot platform with 60-foot canopy for customers boarding light rail trains. The contract also includes installation of infrastructure and conduit for communications, security and ticket vending machines, grading, drainage, lighting and public art. In Phase II, two 300-foot-long, high-level platforms will be built on either side of the ACRL tracks. Stairs and two elevators will be constructed to provide access to customers with disabilities. The second phase also includes construction of a 280-space parking lot, installation of passenger communications, ticket vending machines as well as resurfacing, curbing and lighting improvements to Derousse Avenue. The transit center will be operational upon completion of Phase II, which will be built under a construction contract awarded in early 2011. (NJ Transit - posted 10/19) CAPE MAY SEASHORE LINES RETURNS TO NAMESAKE CITY: Amtrak’s new Fall/Winter System Timetable, effective October 26, will be available in stations this week with a number of positive schedule changes and additions for passengers across the country including the start of new service and more trains on some existing routes. "The new timetable reflects our successful effort to improve Amtrak services, expand travel options for our customers and encourage new passengers to ride our trains," said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph Boardman. Routes in the East: As part of a new state partnership, in October Amtrak Virginia expanded Northeast Regional service between Lynchburg, Va., and Washington, D.C. The new service originates in Lynchburg and allows passengers to travel to destinations along the Northeast Corridor as far north as Boston and never have to change trains. The times for this new frequency can be found in the timetable next to the schedule for the Crescent which follows the same route as it travels between New York and New Orleans. Also, the new Virginia state partnership is supporting a fifth roundtrip on the Northeast Regional between Richmond, Va., and Washington, D.C. that is scheduled to begin in December 2009. And, through a partnership with the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Amtrak will offer an additional roundtrip on the Piedmont between Raleigh and Charlotte, N.C. in early 2010. The exact start date and schedule for these services still need to be finalized. Schedules for the Maple Leaf and Empire Service and the Keystone Service return to the pages of the new timetable after an absence from the previous edition and have been adjusted to reflect now completed track work. Schedules for the Acela Express and Northeast Regional trains are not included due to anticipated and frequent schedule changes to accommodate ongoing track improvement projects in Connecticut and New Jersey. However, periodically updated wallet card schedules for Acela Express and Northeast Regional trains will be available in stations and at Amtrak.com under the "Routes" tab. Routes in the West: In the Pacific Northwest, Amtrak Cascades is now operating a second daily roundtrip to Vancouver, B.C., which is an extension of the existing service between Portland, Ore., and Bellingham, Wash. This pilot project is currently slated to run through the end of March 2010, after the conclusion of the Olympic Winter Games and the Paralympic Games being held in Vancouver, B.C. Also, in September Amtrak added a new daily stop in Leavenworth, Wash., as part of the Empire Builder route providing service to the community's new Icicle Station. As the result of improved on-time performance, the schedule for both the west- and eastbound Sunset Limited have been reduced by about one hour and the southbound Texas Eagle schedule has been shortened by 30 minutes. And, schedules on the California Zephyr have been reduced by one hour following the completion of track work performed by the host railroad. The new Fall/Winter timetable can be found at most Amtrak stations across the country and will be posted online beginning on October 26. (Amtrak- posted 10/16) CAPE MAY SEASHORE LINES RETURNS TO NAMESAKE CITY: The Cape May Seashore Lines has returned to Cape May. On October 12 it inaugurated a wine train, from Cape May to the Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery in Middle Township . . The two-car train, featuring a 1940's vintage cafe car and a dining car, left Cape May shortly after noon and stopped in Middle Township off Seashore Road, across the street from Hawk Haven Winery about 12:25 p.m. The tracks are located near the grape vines. It marked the return of trains to Cape May after a several year absence> (Alex Mayes - posted 10/15) AAR REPORTS RAIL TRAFFIC REMAINS DOWN YEAR OVER YEAR: The Association of American Railroads today reported that for the week ending Oct. 10, 2009, rail traffic remains down – originating 273,429 carloads, down 17.2 percent compared with the same week in 2008. Regionally, carloads were down 15.4 percent in the West and 19.7 percent in the East. Intermodal traffic, while down 11 percent from the same week last year, showed slight signs of improvement this week. U.S. railroads reported originating 208,941 trailers or containers for 2009 – the highest weekly intermodal volume for 2009. In the year over year comparison, however, container volume fell 4.6 percent and trailer volume dropped 34.9 percent. Seventeen of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from the same week last year. However, nonmetallic minerals were up 6 percent and grain mill products were up 1.4 percent. Declines in commodity groups ranged from 3.1 percent for grain to 70.4 percent for metallic ores. For the first 40 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 10,655,334 carloads, down 18.1 percent from 2008; 7,556,240 trailers or containers, down 16.6 percent, and total volume of an estimated 1.14 trillion ton-miles, down 17.2 percent. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending October 10 was estimated at 30.8 billion ton-miles, off 16.1 percent from the same week last year. Canadian railroads reported volume of 67,651 cars for the week, down 13.6 percent from last year, and 45,392 trailers or containers, down 9.5 percent. For the first 40 weeks of 2009, Canadian railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,445,447 carloads, down 22 percent from last year, and 1,634,206 trailers or containers, down 16.1 percent. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 11,683 cars, down 4.8 percent from the same week last year, and 7,043 trailers or containers, down 10.8 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 40 weeks of 2009 was reported as 456,316 carloads, down 13.4 percent from last year; and 210,569 trailers or containers, down 18 percent. Combined North American rail volume for the first 40 weeks of 2009 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 13,557,097 carloads, down 18.7 percent from last year, and 9,401,015 trailers and containers, down 16.6 percent from last year (AAR- posted 10/15) NJ TRANSIT SETS DATE FOR GROUND BREAKING OF PENNSAUKEN TRANSIT CENTER: NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Richard Sarles set an immediate ground breaking date for the Pennsauken Transit Center following his announcement at today’s board meeting that the intermodal facility, which will provide the first direct link between the River Line and the Atlantic City Rail Line, has been cleared for construction by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Officials will mark the construction start for the $40 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act-funded project on Monday, October 19, just days after the environmental review process concluded with a FONSI (Finding Of No Significant Impact) issued by the FTA. “Governor Corzine’s directive last year to kick into high gear the development and review of transportation projects is paying impressive dividends now,” said Transportation Commissioner Stephen Dilts. “This project is being accelerated into construction now, creating or sustaining hundreds of jobs, as a result of the governor’s aggressive response to the economic crisis.” “We are pleased to announce that we are able to break ground this Monday on the intermodal Pennsauken Transit Center that will give South Jersey rail customers the first-ever direct link between the River Line and the Atlantic City Rail Line (ACRL),” said Sarles. The new transit center will be built along Derousse Avenue in Pennsauken where the ACRL tracks cross above the River Line. Customers will be able to transfer from one line to the other at the facility, which will also be served by NJ TRANSIT buses. Elevators will provide accessibility for customers with disabilities. The transit center will be built in two phases, with the contract for the second phase expected to be awarded in early 2011. The transit center is scheduled for completion and operation at the end of 2012. (NJ Transit - posted 10/14) NJ TRANSIT APPROVES WORK TO RESTORE MORRISTOWN STATION: The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today approved work to restore the interior and exterior of the historic Morristown Station on the Morris & Essex Lines—a project that will preserve the building as both a transit facility and community landmark. “The improvements to Morristown Station will restore and preserve one of New Jersey’s historic assets, while ensuring the useful life of the station for residents and riders,” said Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chairman Stephen Dilts. The Board authorized a $2.5 million contract with John O’Hara Company of East Orange, to restore the interior and exterior of the main station building and surrounding areas. The restoration project complements transit-oriented development recently completed next to the train station. The Highlands at Morristown Station, completed under the state’s Transit Village program, marked its grand opening in September 2009. “The restoration of Morristown Station demonstrates our commitment to maintaining safe and comfortable transit facilities for our customers that make it easy for them to choose NJ TRANSIT as their preferred travel mode,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Richard Sarles. The project will also include restoration of exterior windows and door frames of the outbound shelter building, concrete platform and pedestrian tunnel repairs, painting of steel canopies, installation of historic-style light fixtures and an upgrade to the drainage system. Listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places, Morristown Station was constructed in 1914 and serves approximately 2,200 customers on a typical weekday. In 2003, NJ TRANSIT performed accessibility improvements at Morristown Station that included construction of mini-high level platforms with canopies and lighting, elevators, and upgrades to the main station building restrooms to make them ADA-accessible. In addition, NJ TRANSIT restored the roof systems on both the main station building and the outbound shelter building in 2006. Construction for the new restoration work is expected to begin by the end of this year, with completion anticipated in spring 2011. (NJ Transit - posted 10/14) RAILAMERICA'S IPO: Fortress Investment Group LLC (NYSE: FIG) announced today RailAmerica, Inc.'s initial public offering of 10,500,000 primary shares of common stock, as well as the offering of 11,500,000 secondary shares of common stock of RailAmerica, Inc. by RR Acquisition Holding LLC, an entity wholly-owned by certain private equity funds managed by an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC. The shares were priced at $15 per share. Fortress funds acquired the company in February 2007 and will continue to own approximately 55.8% of RailAmerica after the closing of the offering. In connection with the offering, RailAmerica, Inc. granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 1,575,000 additional shares of common stock, and RR Acquisition Holding LLC granted the underwriters the option to purchase up to 1,725,000 additional shares of common stock, to cover over-allotments, if any. The shares will begin trading on October 13, 2009 on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "RA." The offering is expected to close on October 16, 2009. J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated are acting as representatives for the underwriters of this offering. (RailAmerica via Randy Kotuby - posted 10/13) AMTRAK POSTS SECOND BEST RIDERSHIP IN HISTORY: Amtrak carried nearly 27.2 million passengers in Fiscal Year 2009, marking the second highest ridership total since the National Railroad Passenger Corporation started operations in 1971. The 27,167,014 total passengers for the 12 months ending September 30, 2009, fell short of the all-time record of 28.7 million for Fiscal Year 2008, but exceeded the Fiscal Year 2007 total by 5.1 percent. Total ticket revenue for the Fiscal Year 2009 reached $1.6 billion. "In a difficult year for the economy ? particularly in the travel industry ? Amtrak ridership has remained strong albeit with some regional variation," said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph H. Boardman. "In particular, reduced business travel along the Northeast Corridor prevented us from reaching the ridership we achieved last year." In addition, Amtrak on-time performance system-wide topped 80 percent in FY 2009, a significant improvement that leads to ridership gains by bolstering passenger confidence. Amtrak on-time performance in FY 2008 was 71 percent. Boardman said the FY 2009 Amtrak ridership figures are consistent with the annual growth seen since FY 2002 with a spike in passengers during FY 2008 due in part from that summer's record-high gasoline prices. He added, Amtrak is restoring and rehabilitating locomotives and passenger rail cars to be in a position to increase capacity and accommodate growth when the economy improves. Ridership Highlights: While ridership in the Northeast Corridor on Acela Express and Northeast Regional services did not keep pace with last year, several short-distance routes did achieve new highs, including the Chicago-St. Louis corridor (up 6 percent), the Harrisburg-Philadelphia-New York Keystone Service (up 2.7 percent), the Raleigh-Charlotte Piedmont (up 3.8 percent) and the Washington-St. Albans Vermonter (up 1.9 percent). Elsewhere on the Amtrak national network, the Los Angeles-Seattle Coast Starlight ridership was up 22.3 percent from the previous fiscal year, recovering from a 15-week service disruption in 2008 that closed a portion of the route in northern California. Other long distance trains that posted gains in FY 2009 versus FY 2008 include the Los Angeles-New Orleans Sunset Limited route (up 9.8 percent), the San Antonio-Chicago Texas Eagle (up 3.6 percent) and the New York-Miami Silver Meteor (up 3.4 percent) and Silver Star (up 1.1 percent). While other segments posted declines, the 15 long distance trains as a group experienced an increase (up 0.7 percent), highlighting their role in many cases as essential public transportation and reflecting improved on-time performance in most instances. (Amtrak - posted 10/13) NORFOLK SOUTHERN'S RAILCAR EVENT: Norfolk Southern customers now can receive text messages notifying them of the status of shipments with Railcar Event Alerts. Using a simple application on the company’s e-commerce site, accessNS, customers can set up alerts to advise them of a variety of events for as many as three railcars, containers, trailers, or chassis at a time. Once an alert is set up, Railcar Event Alerts checks the status of the equipment every hour and sends a text message to the customer’s cell phone if the status has changed. Information available through Railcar Event Alerts includes: Changes in ETA or ETI Bad order notification When a shipment is received from another rail carrier When a shipment is placed for a shipper’s customer When a car in the shop has been repaired and is moving again For customers needing assistance with e-commerce applications, Norfolk Southern has added live online chat support. This is in addition to the toll-free help line and email support the accessNS team has provided all along. By clicking the “Live Support” link, available in the top left corner of the accessNS title bar or as a button on the accessNS sign-on screen, customers can open a chat session with support personnel in real time. This new feature allows the accessNS support team to help more customers in less time. (Norfolk Southern Corporation - posted 10/12) FRA ANNOUNCES APPROXIMATELY $5 MILLION FOR THE RAILROAD REHABILITATION AND REPAIR GRANT PROGRAM: The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued a Notice of Funding Availability to state departments of transportation for approximately $5,000,000 in grant funding for railroad rehabilitation and repair. Eligible projects are Class II and Class III railroad infrastructures damaged by natural disasters in counties where the President declared a major disaster between January 1, 2008 and October 6, 2009. FRA may award one or more grants which can be used for rights-of-way, bridges, signals, and other infrastructures which are part of the general railroad transportation system. (USDOT - posted 10/12) CSX TREES FOR TRACKS BUILDS ON MOMENTUM OF BALTIMORE COMMUNITY: CSX employees, joined by representatives from TreeBaltimore, Parks & People Foundation and the Westport Community, will spend Saturday, October 10, from 8:30 am to 12 noon, planting large Redbud, Maple and Sycamore trees throughout the Westport Neighborhood of Baltimore. The railroad-sponsored program will focus on Annapolis, Maisel and Cedley streets in the 45-acre Westport neighborhood that is being redeveloped from an industrial area to a mixed-used community. An estimated 37 percent of the area’s families live below the poverty line, but area leaders hope the environmental restoration and community revitalization goals will make the neighborhood a national model for urban restoration. The CSX event is part of the railroad’s “Trees for Tracks” program that promises to plant 21,000 trees, or one tree for each mile of CSX track, in partnership with local organizations over the next five years. Other partners include City Year, the national youth service initiative, and Alliance for Community Trees, a national organization dedicated to helping cities restore their forest canopy, a third of which has been destroyed in recent decades. According to Tori Kaplan, Director of Corporate Citizenship for CSX, “Planting trees improves air quality, offsets carbon emissions, creates noise buffers, improves wildlife habitats and adds beauty to our communities. We appreciate the opportunity to bring Trees for Tracks to a Baltimore city neighborhood that has received national attention for reinventing itself in ways that improve the quality of life and benefit the environment.” During its twenty-five years of working in Baltimore City, Parks & People has found environmental restoration can be a critical early step in the revitalization of communities in need. Says Guy Hager, Senior Director for the Parks & People Foundation, “In communities with trees, people socialize more with their neighbors, have a stronger sense of community and pride in their neighborhood, and feel safer than people in communities without trees. We are excited to be part of this larger effort that CSX is undertaking, to bring trees back to our city.” “Alliance for Community Trees is thrilled to partner with CSX on this and other Trees for Tracks initiatives, to make communities cleaner, greener, and healthier. CSX is an outstanding hands-on partner -- we could not be happier with the results of the program,” adds Alice Ewen Walker, Alliance for Community Trees Executive Director. Additional CSX “Trees for Tracks” planting days will take place over the next several months in Atlanta, Miami and other cities. For additional information or to sign up as a volunteer, please visit http://www.keeponliving.org/green/trees-for-tracks/. (CSX - posted 10/09) LAST WEEKEND TO RIDE GO TRAIN TO NIAGARA FALLS - SERVICES ENDS OCTOBER 12: Visitors to Niagara Falls will be able to take in the changing fall colours by GO Train for one last weekend as GO Transit wraps up its seasonal weekend and holiday service to the Niagara Region on Thanksgiving weekend. So far, more than 40,000 travelers have taken the GO Train from Toronto to Niagara Falls or from the Niagara Region to Toronto since the seasonal excursion service launched on June 27. "Weekend GO rail service is a great boost for Niagara region's travel and hospitality industry. It brings more tourist dollars to the area and increases employment. Building better public transit benefits our economy, our communities and our environment," said Minister of Transportation Jim Bradley. GO Trains will operate in both directions four times daily in each direction Saturday, October 10 to Monday October 12. "GO Transit was pleasantly surprised with the large number of customers who chose to use the GO Train this summer when travelling between Toronto and Niagara," said Gary McNeil, Managing Director of GO Transit and Executive Vice President of Metrolinx. "We look forward to continuing service for the Niagara Region with our daily bus service." The two-hour trip runs between Union Station in downtown Toronto, Port Credit GO Station, Oakville GO Station, Burlington GO Station, St. Catharines VIA Rail station, and Niagara Falls VIA Rail station. An adult single ride fare from Union Station to Niagara Falls costs $15.90. GO's service to the Niagara Region offers visitors another alternative to driving to this popular destination area. To make it convenient for weekend and holiday outings, families and groups travelling to or from Niagara Falls have the option of staying overnight on a Group Pass. Visit the Niagara Falls page at gotransit.com for more information, including fare and schedule information and details about connections to local transit and attractions. GO also recently began year-round weekday and weekend bus service to Niagara Falls on September 5. GO also encourages people to take this bus service between Niagara Falls VIA Rail station and Burlington GO Station with stops in Stoney Creek, Grimsby, and St. Catharines. Bus fares are the same as the train fares and a full schedule is available at gotransit.com. For specific train and bus schedule information, the public can call 416.869.3200, 1.888.GO ON GO (438.6646), or 1.800.387.3652 TTY, or check the Schedules section at gotransit.com. (GO Transit - posted 10/08) AAR REPORTS RAIL TRAFFIC CONTINUES TO REFLECT DOWN ECONOMY: The Association of American Railroads today reported that for the week ended Oct. 3, 2009, rail traffic continues to reflect the down economy – originating 277,734 carloads, down 17.2 percent compared with the same week in 2008. All of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from the same week last year, with declines ranging from 2.7 percent for chemicals to 53.2 percent for metallic ores. Intermodal traffic of 206,293 trailers or containers on U.S. railroads was down 15.7 percent from the same week last year. Container volume fell 10 percent and trailer volume dropped 37 percent. Regionally, carloads were down 16.4 percent in the West and 18.3 percent in the East. For the first 39 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 10,381,905 carloads, down 18.1 percent from 2008; 7,347,299 trailers or containers, down 16.8 percent, and total volume of an estimated 1.11 trillion ton-miles, down 17.3 percent. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending October 3 was estimated at 29.7 billion ton-miles, off 16.6 percent from the same week last year. Canadian railroads reported volume of 73,377 cars for the week, down 7.3 percent from last year, and 43,724 trailers or containers, down 15.6 percent. For the first 39 weeks of 2009, Canadian railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,377,796 carloads, down 22.2 percent from last year, and 1,588,814 trailers or containers, down 16.2 percent. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 12,597 cars, down 0.9 percent from the same week last year, and 7,593 trailers or containers, down 3.4 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 39 weeks of 2009 was reported as 444,633 carloads, down 13.6 percent from last year; and 203,526 trailers or containers, down 18.2 percent. Combined North American rail volume for the first 39 weeks of 2009 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 13,204,334 carloads, down 18.8 percent from last year, and 9,139,639 trailers and containers, down 16.7 percent from last year. (AAR - posted 10/08) MIDDAY BUSING PLANNED FOR METRO NORTH'S PORT JERVIS LINE TO ALLOW FOR CONTINUED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS: Buses will substitute for several midday Port Jervis Line trains operating between Harriman and Port Jervis stations from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning October 12 and continuing through November 20. This will allow for the replacement of 9,700 ties, replacement of "stick" rail with three miles of continuous welded rail (CWR) from Harriman to Central Valley and 1.2 miles of CWR from Hudson Junction and Campbell Hall for a smoother ride. In addition, the deck timbers of the Ramapo River Bridge will be replaced and the track configuration west of Harriman Station will be changed to improve the signal system. This track outage also will allow for inspections of the Moodna and Woodbury viaducts and new rail installation on the Woodbury Viaduct. These improvements are valued at about $5 million. Four eastbound trains, #58, 62, 64, 66, and three westbound trains, # 43, 45 and 49, will be affected. Buses will operate on train times. (MTA - posted 10/07) FOUR RAILROADS NAMED TO NEWSWEEK'S GREENEST COMPANY LIST: Four U.S. Class I freight railroads have been named to Newsweek Magazine's “Greenest Companies” list for transportation and aerospace companies. The magazine ranked BNSF Railway Co. No. 6, CSX Corp. No. 7, Norfolk Southern Corp. No. 11 and Union Pacific Railroad No. 20. Newsweek highlighted the railroads' initiatives to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, such as by employing new locomotive technologies, electric cranes, and natural gas-powered locomotives and trucks, and efforts to phase-out older locomotives. (AAR - posted 10/06) JAY H. WALDER ASSUMES LEADERS OF MTA: Jay H. Walder began work today as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) by meeting with employees at the Corona Subway Maintenance Shop and the Casey Stengel Bus Depot in Queens, before greeting customers at the Main Street Station on the #7 line. He stressed the need for the MTA to deliver on its commitments, show taxpayers good value and improve engagement with the communities it serves. "I am proud of the MTA's progress over the past 20 years, but we need to do more. Our customers have raised their expectations and we cannot be satisfied with the status quo," Walder said. "In partnership with the MTA's hard-working men and women, I know we can meet those expectations. It will not be easy, but I come to the job with my eyes open and my sleeves rolled up." Walder said his first priority was to work intensively with the organization to get up to speed on the MTA's operations and better understand its challenges. He committed to quickly identifying priorities and producing a plan of action. "By the end of my first 100 days at the MTA, we will produce an action plan for moving forward with concrete goals and timelines," he said. "We will make the objectives clear and the communities we serve should hold us accountable for achieving real results." Born and raised in the Rockaways in Queens, Walder worked at the MTA from 1983-1995, rising to Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer. In 2001, Walder joined Transport for London, where he served as the Managing Director for Finance and Development until 2006. He is credited with the introduction of the system's extremely popular "Oyster card" and with drafting the transportation plan for London's successful bid for the 2012 Summer Olympics. "New Yorkers should be able to expect the same type of customer experience riders enjoy in London, with accurate arrival information and modern fare technology," Walder said. Walder was nominated by Governor David A. Paterson on July 14 and confirmed by the New York State Senate on September 10. His term expires on June 30, 2015. Walder attended Harpur College at the State University of New York at Binghamton, and received a master's degree in Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. (MTA - posted 10/05) CANADIAN PACIFIC ANNOUNCES 2009 U.S. HOLIDAY CAMPAIGN: Canadian Pacific's brightly decorated Holiday Train returns to the rails in late November, raising food, money and awareness for food pantries across North America. Last year, the Holiday Train helped raise more than $500,000 and 250,000 lbs of food and there is greater need this year. Canadian Pacific is proud to support communities where we operate, raising more than $4 million in funds and two million pounds of food in the Holiday Train's first decade," said CP President and CEO Fred Green. "Each year, the Holiday Train's message gets stronger and the impact on our employees and in communities becomes more meaningful." At each stop, Canadian Pacific provides a brightly decorated train, a box car converted into a stage, great musical talent and a corporate contribution to the local food pantry. The community, in turn, rallies together at this free event - donating food and funds, all of which stays in their community. Noting that food shelf visits have grown by 40% this year in Minnesota, Second Harvest Heartland spokesperson, Joan Wadkins, praised the Holiday Train hunger relief outreach, adding that "half of those visits are from families with children, and many of them are first time users of the food shelf." "The Holiday Train is a great treat for families, and a great partner in reminding us that some of our neighbors -- particularly now -- are actually missing meals." said Wadkins. Last year, the St. Paul stop generated more than $10,000 in donations, and more than $90,000 in grocery products delivered to hungry families. A diverse array of musicians will headline the US Holiday Train stage this year. Join Prescott and Adam Puddington with their blend of country, rock and blues for the American tour. Blues-rocker Shaun Verreault lends his virtuosic vocals and guitar to the tour from November 28 – December 6. Genre defying Wisconsin singer/songwriter and guitar wizard Willy Porter rounds out the tour December 7 to 18. "Across North America, wherever there are people who are in need of food, there are communities dedicated to feeding that need" said Verreault. "The Holiday Train helps communities help each other, not just during the holiday season, but year round and I'm honored to help supply the soundtrack to such an inspiring program." Over 40 American cities, towns and villages will experience the Holiday Train spirit, starting in Scranton, PA on November 28 and concluding in Carpio, ND on December 17. For the first time, the US Holiday Train will visit South Dakota communities where the Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad Corporation, a CP subsidiary, operates. Complete schedule details, downloads, pictures and video for the 2009 Holiday Train can be found on www.cpr.ca. (CP - posted 10/02) AAR REPORTS RAIL TRAFFIC REMAINS DOWN: The Association of American Railroads today reported 271,659 carloads for the week ending Sept. 26, 2009, down 17.1 percent compared with the same week in 2008. The traffic numbers were affected by severe flooding in Tennessee and Georgia which halted freight shipments in those areas from Sept. 21-23. Flooding also impacted the western freight carriers who operate through Atlanta. At this time, freight rail operations have returned to normal. Regionally, carloadings were down 15.5 percent in the West and 19.3 percent in the East. Intermodal traffic of 205,627 trailers or containers on U.S. railroads was down 16.5 percent from the same week last year. Container volume fell 11 percent and trailer volume dropped 37.2 percent. All of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from last year with declines ranging from 6 percent for chemicals to 38.5 percent for metals and products. For the first 38 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 10,104,171 carloads, down 18.2 percent from 2008; 7,141,006 trailers or containers, down 16.8 percent, and total volume of an estimated 1.08 trillion ton-miles, down 17.3 percent. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending September 26 was estimated at 28.8 billion ton-miles, off 17.2 percent from the same week last year. Canadian railroads reported volume of 69,342 cars for the week, down 15.1 percent from last year, and 44,838 trailers or containers, down 13.8 percent. For the first 38 weeks of 2009, Canadian railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,304,419 carloads, down 22.6 percent from last year, and 1,545,090 trailers or containers, down 16.3 percent. Mexican railroads reported originated volume of 11,782 cars, down 8.9 percent from the same week last year, and 6,636 trailers or containers, down 13.9 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 38 weeks of 2009 was reported as 432,036 carloads, down 14 percent from last year; and 195,933 trailers or containers, down 18.9 percent. Combined North American rail volume for the first 38 weeks of 2009 on 13 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 12,840,626 carloads, down 18.9 percent from last year, and 8,882,029 trailers and containers, down 16.8 percent from last year. (AAR - posted 10/02) CANADIAN PACIFIC ANNOUNCES 2009 HOLIDAY TRAIN: Canadian Pacific's brightly decorated Holiday Train returns to the rails in late November, raising food, money and awareness for food banks across North America. Last year, the Holiday Train helped raise more than $500,000 and 250,000 lbs of food and there is greater need this year. "Canadian Pacific is proud to support communities where we operate, raising more than $4 million in funds and two million pounds of food in the Holiday Train's first decade," said CP President and CEO Fred Green. "Each year, the Holiday Train's message gets stronger and the impact on our employees and in communities becomes more meaningful." At each stop, Canadian Pacific provides a brightly decorated train, a box car converted into a stage, great musical talent and a corporate contribution to the local food bank. The community, in turn, rallies together at this free event - donating food and funds, all of which stays in their community. "Each month, thousands of Canadians are faced with making the very real choice between paying rent or buying food," said Katharine Schmidt, Executive Director of Food Banks Canada. "Canadian Pacific has become an important partner in supporting these families in need." Food Banks Canada and its members, affiliate members and respective agencies serve approximately 85 percent of food bank clients in Canada and recently confirmed that 20% more Canadians are enlisting the help of food banks compared to a year ago. The headlining musical talents on the Canadian Holiday Train this year are alternative rock band The Odds and blues-rocker Shaun Verreault. The Odds bring their energy and full voiced harmonies to the Holiday Train stage for the first time. With international hits such as "Someone Who's Cool" and "Love is the Subject", this power pop quartet will be sure to entertain. "Across North America, wherever there are people who are in need of food, there are communities dedicated to feeding that need" said Verreault. "The Holiday Train helps communities help each other, not just during the holiday season, but year round and I'm honored to help supply the soundtrack to such an inspiring program." Over 70 Canadian cities, towns and villages will experience the Holiday Train spirit, starting in Montreal on Saturday, November 28 and concluding in Port Moody on Friday, December 18. In the U.S, a second Holiday Train will visit more than 40 communities including for the first time communities in South Dakota along CP's Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad subsidiary. Complete schedule details, downloads, pictures and video for the 2009 Holiday Train can be found on www.cpr.ca (Canadian Pacific (AAR - posted 10/01) BLET, UTU JOINTLY OPPOSE AMTRAK FIREARMS AMENDMENT: The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the United Transportation Union have joined forces to oppose a Senate amendment that would allow Amtrak passengers to carry firearms in their checked luggage. Citing safety, operational, and financial concerns, the Presidents of the BLET and UTU yesterday wrote a joint letter to key members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees to voice their strong opposition to the Wicker Amendment. The Wicker Amendment to the Senate 2010 Transportation-House & Urban Development Appropriations Bill would allow Amtrak to transport firearms in passengers' checked luggage. "We strongly believe that this provision would seriously jeopardize the safety of our membership, of other crew members on Amtrak trains, and of the intercity rail traveling public," wrote BLET National President Ed Rodzwicz and UTU International President Mike Futhey. From a safety and security standpoint, the weapons would be too easily accessible to terrorists or others passengers. "When firearms are transported in checked baggage on aircraft none of the passengers have access to those firearms because they are stored in a segregated cargo hold," they wrote. "In stark contrast, anyone riding an Amtrak train need only overpower the on-board crew to have access to the baggage car and any weapons being transported therein. This poses an unacceptable risk, in our opinion." Not only does the amendment significantly diminish safety, it is also wasteful of federal subsidies necessary for Amtrak to fulfill its statutory mandate. The amendment does not provide funding to train Amtrak personnel on handling the baggage with checked firearms. Additionally, adding extra procedures during check-in and baggage handling to accommodate the amendment could adversely affect on-time performance. Even if Amtrak was given additional operating funds to accommodate the transportation of firearms, the unions argue that the money would be better spent elsewhere along the Amtrak system. "We would oppose the transportation of firearms on Amtrak trains because such additions of resources could better serve the public by increased investment in Amtrak's infrastructure and rolling stock," the union presidents wrote. "Traditional investments in Amtrak have easily documentable returns such as improved safety and increased ridership. Conversely, it is difficult to measure the return on investment to transport weapons, given the added costs involved with safely and securely transporting firearms." The unions are currently supporting a similar Amtrak appropriations measure in the House, which lacks the provision that forces Amtrak to change its current policy of prohibiting firearms on passenger trains. (BLET - posted 9/30) NJ TRANSIT ANNOUNCES START OF MONTCLAIR WEEKEND SERVICE: NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Richard Sarles joined Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo and the mayors of Montclair, Glen Ridge and Bloomfield today to announce the start of weekend rail service on a portion of the Montclair-Boonton Line from Bay Street Station in Montclair to Newark and Hoboken Terminal. “New Jersey has long been recognized as a national leader for providing safe, reliable public transit options,” said Governor Jon S. Corzine. “This new weekend rail service is one more building block in an expansive transportation infrastructure that will take cars off the road, increase travel access to shopping, recreation and entertainment venues and create economic opportunities for our citizens.” “The people of Montclair, Glen Ridge and Bloomfield and other communities have waited a long time for weekend service,” said Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-8), who has served on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “Not only will this additional rail service encourage the people who live in these towns to use mass transit while they have their weekend fun, but it will also allow more people access to the shopping areas, recreational facilities and restaurants that these great communities have to offer.” Starting Sunday, November 8, NJ TRANSIT will begin weekend trains with a demonstration rail service by extending existing train shuttles west to Bay Street Station in Montclair, that today operate only between Hoboken Terminal and Newark Broad Street on weekends. Trains will operate approximately every two hours to and from Hoboken with stops at Bay Street, Glen Ridge, Bloomfield, Watsessing Avenue and Newark Broad Street stations, and will give customers the opportunity to connect at Newark Broad Street to Midtown Direct service to New York or to points west on the Morris & Essex Lines. “NJ TRANSIT is able to extend existing trains west at virtually no cost, and without impacting existing train schedules or putting more strain on limited capacity at the Hudson River tunnels – which are under construction on weekends,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Richard Sarles. “Initiating weekend train service on the Montclair-Boonton Line at the Bay Street Station is another example of how NJ TRANSIT has been responsive to our residents' concerns,” said Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo. “This service enhances access to Montclair and Essex County for business and leisure travel and provides travelers the chance to use less energy and help protect the environment by using mass transportation.” “I am thrilled that Montclair residents will be able to take a safe, convenient and eco-friendly train into New York and Newark,” said Montclair Mayor Jerry Fried. “They will be able to leave their cars at home or at the Bay Street station, where the parking will be free through 2009. This is a great step forward, laying the groundwork for complete service that will link Montclair State University to the rest of the City and points east.” “With two train stations, robust bus service and a community shuttle, public transportation is a vital part of the Township,” said Bloomfield Mayor Raymond McCarthy. “We look forward to welcoming weekend rail service in the near future.” “As far as the extension of weekend train service to Glen Ridge and Montclair goes, I am very excited with this new development,” said Glen Ridge Mayor Peter A. Hughes. “Limited weekend service will be a benefit to the residents of Glen Ridge who wish to travel to New York City on weekends and holidays. Trains are a great way to travel. They are safe and operate at low cost to riders and to the environment.” (NJ Transit - posted 9/30) NORFOLK SOUTHERN THEFUTURENEEDSUS.COM FOCUSES ON THE BENEFITS OF PARTNERSHIPS AND RAIL CORRIDORS: Norfolk Southern has launched a new Web site focusing on the benefits of its corridor and public-private partnership projects. The Web site, TheFutureNeedsUs.com, describes projects to increase rail freight transportation capacity and improve mobility and the environment. Information is provided for projects in Alabama, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, where governors Riley, Barbour, Rendell, Bredesen, Kaine, and Manchin are leaders in supporting transportation solutions. The site outlines how upgrading the Crescent Corridor – the existing 2,500-mile rail route from the Southeast to the Northeast – will support a stronger economy, less highway congestion, cleaner air, and fuel savings. The Crescent Corridor will be among the largest additions of new freight transportation capacity since the Interstate Highway System. That means creating or benefiting some 47,000 green jobs and producing these estimated annual benefits: · $326 million in tax revenues to states and communities · 1.3 million long-haul trucks diverted from interstates · $146 million in accident avoidance savings · 1.9 million tons in CO2 reduction · $575 million in congestion savings · $92 million in highway maintenance savings · 169 million gallons in fuel savings Crescent Corridor components include new intermodal facilities at Memphis, Birmingham, and Franklin County, Pa., and the expansion of terminals in Harrisburg and Philadelphia. Other projects include straightening curves; adding passing tracks, double tracks, and signals; and running more efficient trains. TheFutureNeedsUs.com provides detailed information about other Norfolk Southern corridor projects, as well. This includes the Heartland Corridor to open a new gateway for double-stacked container traffic from the East Coast to the Midwest; the MidAmerica Corridor to create shorter and faster routes for merchandise moving between the Midwest and Southeast; and the Pan Am Southern Corridor to create an improved rail route between Albany, N.Y., and the greater Boston area. The site includes photos, videos, maps, fact sheets, links, contacts, and a convenient form for contacting Norfolk Southern. Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products. (Norfolk Southern Corporation, Randy Kotuby - posted 9/29) NORFOLK SOUTHERN UNVEILS EXPERIMENTAL ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE: With U.S. Dept. of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Congressman Bill Shuster in attendance, Norfolk Southern today unveiled the latest in alternative energy locomotive technology at its Juniata Locomotive Shop in Altoona, Pa. NS 999 is a prototype 1,500-horsepower switching locomotive that relies solely on rechargeable batteries for power. “At Norfolk Southern we strongly subscribe to the view that sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint are solid business objectives that also provide enormous benefits to the communities we serve,” said CEO Wick Moorman. “By utilizing regenerated kinetic energy of the train and with no diesel exhaust emissions, NS 999 achieves those goals. This prototype locomotive was developed by Norfolk Southern, with the help of an incredibly creative partnership, including the U.S. Dept. of Energy, the Federal Railroad Administration, and The Pennsylvania State University, for which we are grateful. We must also recognize Congressman Bill Shuster, as without his active interest and participation in this project NS 999 would still be merely a concept.” “Today, the transportation sector currently accounts for just under a third of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, more than half of nitrogen oxide emissions, and almost three-quarters of our petroleum consumption. We need to change that,” said Secretary LaHood. “By working together to develop alternative energy sources and innovative technologies like this electric locomotive, we will make transportation more sustainable and energy-efficient.” “Historically, Pennsylvania has had a tremendous history in railroading, and it remains my belief that our state can still have a bright future in rail if we take advantage of dynamic partnerships between the private and public sectors like the one that produced this locomotive,” said Congressman Bill Shuster, the Ranking Republican on the Railroads Subcommittee. “What Norfolk Southern and Penn State are doing with Congress and Secretary LaHood’s support is truly significant and will help usher in a new generation of green locomotives fueled by American ingenuity. Let’s not forget about the great work done by the Juniata Locomotive Shop employees who did a superior job producing this engine. I am proud to have worked to secure funding for this project, and I look forward to seeing it working the rail lines soon.” Congressman Shuster secured $1.3 million in federal funding for the NS 999 project. NS 999 is an entirely electric locomotive that uses a lead-acid energy storage system comprised of 1,080 12-volt batteries to operate in railroad switching applications without the use of a diesel engine and with zero exhaust emissions. The plug-in locomotive also can regenerate dynamic braking energy through a system provided by Brookville Equipment Company. The recovered dynamic braking energy continually replenishes the energy storage system, and uses this recovered energy for tractive effort in rail operations. The batteries are carefully monitored and controlled through an elaborate battery management system to assure safety and maximum battery life, and when fully charged NS 999 is able to operate three shifts before recharging is required. (Norfolk Southern Corporation - posted 9/28) NEW WEBSITE FOR AMTRAK TRAVELERS IN VIRGINIA - AMTRAKVIRGINIA.COM: A new website is now available for Virginia's rail travelers, AmtrakVirginia.com, with information on all Amtrak service in Virginia including the new Northeast Regional service that provides expanded transportation choices for travelers. Beginning this fall, new roundtrip Northeast Regional service will be offered from Lynchburg and Richmond to major destinations in the Northeast Corridor, including Philadelphia, New York, Boston and more. The Lynchburg service starts on October 1, 2009 and the Richmond service begins in December 2009. Tickets are now available for the Lynchburg service and may be booked at Amtrak.com. Passengers who book now through December 16 may take advantage of a fare promotion which offers up to 25 percent off the lowest published coach fare on Northeast Regional service between Lynchburg, Washington, D.C., New York and Boston. Sample one-way fares include $66 between Lynchburg and New York and $71 between Lynchburg and Boston. See amtrakvirginia.com/hotdeals.aspx for details. Reservations are required for travel and must be made at least 14 days in advance of travel. Some restrictions apply. Tickets can be purchased at Amtrak.com or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL. In celebration of the new Lynchburg service, a whistle stop tour is scheduled for September 30, 2009. Go to AmtrakVirginia.com for more on the whistle stop tour, and the latest information on all Virginia routes, special deals and tourist destinations. (Amtrak - posted 9/25) [ Home Page I Subscribe! I Photo Gallery I Interlocking I Railpace Store I Magazine Info I Contributions I Contact Us ] Questions regarding this page can be directed to the Webmaster, Paul Tupaczewski, at paultup@optonline.net. Copyright 2000-2007, 2009 Railpace Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved.