Cambridge Systematics turns 45
Transit and transportation planning and development consultant Cambridge Systematics is celebrating 45 years as an industry consultant.
Commuter Regional
CTA celebrates 70th anniversary
The Chicago Transit Authority celebrated its 70th anniversary Oct. 1, the date when in 1947 the public agency started as owner and operator of what is the current Chicago Transit Authority bus and ‘L’ train service.
Puerto Rico gets FTA relief funding
In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, which caused the worst devastation Puerto Rico has seen in 80 years, the Federal Transit Administration awarded $8.4 million in critical grant funding to support public transit systems on the island.
USDOT streamlining environmental review for multimodal projects
The U.S. Department of Transportation plans to streamline the environmental review process for multimodal projects, to speed development while removing bureaucratic obstacles.
Commentary
I have this recurring nightmare …
The Federal Railroad Administration’s new Hours of Service (HOS) app is now available via the iPhone App Store:
Siemens and Alstom announce “merger of equals”
It’s official: Siemens AG and Alstom SA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding “granting exclusivity to combine mobility businesses in a merger of equals.” The combination is largely viewed as a move to remain competitive in a global market in which Chinese rolling stock manufacturers have gained considerable market share. Based on how the merged company, “Siemens Alstom,” will be structured and named, Siemens is the lead company, with 6 of 11 board members.
Amtrak CUS Great Hall work under way
Amtrak’s $22 million project to restore and improve historic Chicago Union Station’s Great Hall is under way. The year-long project will result in a public space painted in its original colors, and made brighter by a restored and protected skylight with improved lighting.
CSX, industry promote Rail Safety Week
Jacksonville-based CSX this week is partnering with Operation Lifesaver and the rail industry on Rail Safety Week Sept. 25-30, to raise public awareness about how to be safe around railroad tracks.
Siemens+Alstom+Bombardier?
Germany’s Siemens AG and France’s Alstom SA are discussing a merger to create a European rail transportation manufacturing conglomerate to counter growing competition from China, according to a report in the Sept. 23, 2017 Wall Street Journal. Meanwhile, Siemens continues to engage in talks with Canada’s Bombardier, Inc. about merging their railway businesses.
Commentary
Timing is everything
Isn’t it, though? Six weeks ago, the Federal Railroad Administration announced it is withdrawing its ANPRM (Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking) regarding testing and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea for safety-sensitive personnel, and then the National Transportation Safety Board opens its dockets on the two bumping post collisions at Hoboken Terminal on NJ Transit and Atlantic Avenue on the Long Island Rail Road.