AAR: Railroads set safety record in 2012
The Federal Railroad Administration safety reports for 2012 are now complete, and the Association of American Railroads said Monday they show it was the safest year in the industry’s recorded history.
Short Lines
Panama Canal Railway applies North American railroad lessons
The Panama Canal Railway Company (PCRC), jointly owned by Kansas City Southern and Mi-Jack Products, Inc., taps into the experience of North American railroaders to bring success to its business.
Vermont rail speeds to increase, state says
The Vermont Agency of Transportation says speed limits will be raised on New England Central trackage from 59 mph to 79 mph beginning March 11, improving conditions for both freight rail movement and Amtrak’s Vermonter.
Caltrans unveils draft State Rail Plan
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) released the draft California State Rail Plan (CSRP) and plans to hold a series of five open houses and a webinar to gather public input before a final plan is issued this summer.
FRA notes rail safety improvement
The Federal Railroad Administration’s preliminary accident/incident report for the first 11 months of 2012 shows continued safety improvement in nearly every category.
Vermont governor seeks more Amtrak service
Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin has advanced a fiscal year 2014 state budget with funding for restored passenger rail service between Rutland and Burlington, running north-south on the Green Mountain State’s western flank.
LaHood to step down in February
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, says he will leave the Obama administration in February, ending months of speculation over the possibility of continuing in his role during the administration’s second term.
Commentary
Obama’s rail vision requires voice of the people
One clause in a single sentence in President Obama’s second inaugural speech has potential for meaningful consequences: “Together, we determined that a modern economy requires railroads and highways to speed travel and commerce.”
Nominations sought for Railway Age 2013 Shortline/Regional Railroad of the Year
Railway Age is now accepting entries for its annual Short Line/Regional Railroad of the Year competition. Short lines and regionals—and there are more than 500 of them—are invited to submit entries describing outstanding achievement in one or a combination of areas.
CN, Indiana Rail Road plan intermodal venture
CN and the Indiana Rail Road Co. on Wednesday announced plans to construct an intermodal terminal in Indianapolis, designed to offer Indiana importers and exporters an all-rail option for containerized products moving to and from Asia.