Post by les on Jan 3, 2023 11:42:23 GMT
May 23, 2023
Bologna Red Line construction begins
"On 7 March 2019, the mayor of Bologna officially announced plans to build a new citywide tramway network. As of June 2022, the tender for the executive design and construction of tramway line 1 (red line) has been awarded: the whole line is expected to be operational by 2026"
SMART plans spending surge for rail, path projects
"The $110 million that SMART plans to spend in the 2023-2024 fiscal year is a significant increase from the $77 million projected in this fiscal year. Most of the increase would be allotted for $41.6 million of rail and path construction projects beginning this year"
Work in progress to upgrade BNSF’s old Sandpoint bridge
"SANDPOINT, Idaho — With BNSF Railway and Montana Rail Link trains now using the new 4,873-foot long Lake Pend Oreille bridge opened in late November 2022 outside Sandpoint, Idaho, the adjacent bridge opened by Northern Pacific in 1904 is undergoing reconstruction."
May 17, 2023
Deutsche Bahn Invests €2bn in 73 New ICE Trains
"Deutsche Bahn (DB) has announced a 2 billion EUR investment in 73 new ICE trains from Talgo and Siemens Mobility. This is one of the largest procurement projects in the company's history, and includes 56 ICE L trains from Talgo and 17 ICE 3neo trains from Siemens Mobility"
May 16, 2023
Russian Railways orders domestically-developed EMUs
"Russian Railways has awarded Sinara Transport Machines a contract to supply 22 five-car electric multiple-units to the ES104 Vostok design, which has been developed as the basis for a family of trains using domestically-produced components"
May 15, 2023
News photos: ‘Poseidon’ helps CN fight Alberta fires
"Poseidon has roamed the rails not only protecting CN infrastructure but aiding local fire-fighting efforts where needed. It joins vehicles deployed by other western North American railroads in dealing what has become a spring-through-fall wildfire season."
May 9, 2023
Keolis wins operation and maintenance contract in the Netherlands
"Running between Amersfoort and Ede-Wageningen, the 13-year contract will start in December 2023, generating €150 million in revenue over its duration"
May 8, 2023
BNSF Rebuilds One Bridge, Begins Another in the Northwest
"The completion in November 2022 of the adjacent 4,873-foot long Bridge 3.9B allowed BNSF to divert all traffic off of the older bridge and resume its renovations that began more than a decade ago. During 2008-09, new piers and deck spans were installed at both ends of the 1904 bridge"
May 4, 2023
Mozambique's Machipanda line will be ready within six months
"CFM chairman guarantees 318km line rehabilitation project will be completed by October. Chairman of the board of directors of CFM, Mr Agostinho Langa Júnior, meeting track teams working on the Machipanda main line rehabilitation project"
April rail traffic remains below 2022 levels
" U.S. freight rail traffic in April was down 6% from the same month in 2022, a slight improvement over the previous month, according to statistics from the Association of American Railroads. The figures for the month included a 1.8% increase in carload traffic and a 12.7% decline in intermodal volume"
Siemens presentation offers opportunity to compare hydrogen, battery-powered trains
"A recent presentation by Siemens offered the opportunity to compare the company's new hydrogen and battery trains for Europe, and provided a look at a new road-transport-based mobile hydrogen filling station. The equipment was presented at the Siemens-owned test center in northwestern Germany"
Rail regulation bill advances in Pennsylvania legislature
"The bill includes provisions limiting train lengths to 8,500 feet; prohibiting delay of an emergency vehicle at a blocked grade crossing for more than five minutes; and requiring two-person crews"
May 1, 2023
MBTA inspection finds 283 track defects need repairs to lift slow zones
"The MBTA completed a systemwide track inspection, a preliminary step needed to begin lifting the plethora of speed restrictions that plague each subway line. This inspection and validation process determined that there are 283 track defects across the transit system that require some type of repair"
California enacts first-in-the-nation crackdown on pollution from trains
"California enacts first-in-the-nation crackdown on pollution from trains. State regulators unanimously voted Thursday requiring train companies that operate in the state to swap out their dirtiest locomotives to the cleanest diesel models and eventually to zero-emission models"
April 28, 2023
Construction underway at MxV Rail's PuebloPlex
"MxV Rail yesterday announced the second construction phase of its PuebloPlex in Pueblo, Colorado, is underway. The 2023 construction plan calls for implementation of the facility for accelerated service testing (FAST) loop, the curving performance track and the suspension resonance track"
April 25, 2023
Why TECHNO-CRETE® Is the Practical Choice of Foundation Material
"With fewer tonnes of material to deal with on site, TECHNO-CRETE® reduces manual handling and results in less back damage and muscle fatigue amongst operatives. With fewer health and safety issues on site, injury claims are therefore decreased"
April 24, 2023
Ukraine reopens rebuilt Irpin River rail bridges
"The western bridge was temporarily repaired, with services resuming on May 8 2022. UZ has now completed a major overhaul of both bridges, removing damaged sections and rebuilding one crossing to allow operation to resume on both bridges"
April 21, 2023
Getlink announces all-time high revenue of €506.9m
"An all-time high revenue of €506.9m for the first quarter of 2023 was announced by Getlink. Environmental responsibility will also increase the use of rail as a popular mode of transport. Credit: Pixabay. Getlink, formerly Groupe Eurotunnel, has announced revenue of €506.9m for Q1 2023"
April 20, 2023
Funds allotted for purchase of Texarkana Union Station
"For the first time since in more than 20 years, the Union Station in downtown Texarkana may have a chance at a new life. The Arkansas-side Board of Directors agreed Monday in a 4-2 vote to green-light a $200,000 contribution to help the city of Texarkana, Texas, buy the vintage train station."
April 19, 2023
Berlin tram network ups the voltage
"Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe has completed conversion of the traction power supply on its entire 196 route-km tram network from 600 V DC to 750 V DC"
ERA approves Vossloh’s DE 18 Stage V locomotive for use in Italy
"The DE 18 Stage V locomotive will help Italian operators drastically reduce their environmental impact. The European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) has approved Vossloh Rolling Stock's DE 18 Stage V mixed-traffic locomotive for use on the Italian railway network"
April 18, 2023
WMATA board OKs $4.8 billion budget for FY2024
"Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's board late last week approved a $4.8 billion combined capital and operating budget for fiscal-year 2024"
April 14, 2023
SNCF committed to NExTEO roll out
"Despite speculation to the contrary, SNCF Réseau and its contractors are continuing to roll out the NExTEO communications-based train control system which will manage the extended RER Line E in Paris, as project manager Jérôme Lefebvre explains to Jérémie Anne"
April 13, 2023
RZD orders 42 electric trains
"By the end of this year, TMH will deliver Russian Railways a fleet of 220 coaches comprising 90 EP2D typpe and 130 EP3D model railcars. The 16 EP2D train fleet will consist of several versions including one 10-car train, two 8-car, six 6-car and seven 4-car versions"
Angolan railway expansion project approved
'ANGOLA: The government has approved funding for the construction of a 260 km railway to serve the inland provinces of Moxico and Lunda Sul. The Ministry of Transport has been authorised to award a US$1'
Greenbrier Express sets inaugural run, start of regular operations
"The inaugural run of Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad's Greenbrier Express operation is set for Saturday, May 13, the railroad has announced. The initial run on the recently reopened, 15-mile Cass-to-Durbin remnant of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad's Greenbrier Subdivision quickly sold out"
April 12, 2023
British effort seeks to build new 0-4-4 tank engine
"G5 Locomotive Co. Ltd. Enter the Class G5 Locomotive Co., which is seeking support for its effort to build an 0-4-4 tank locomotive that it says will be economical to run and maintain with a high route availability, low axle weight and ability to take tight corners."
At least five hurt in Houston collision between light rail train, ambulance
" At least five people were injured Tuesday night when a METRORail train and Houston Fire Department ambulance collided in downtown Houston, according to media reports."
April 11, 2023
Patriot Rail to serve Rocky Mountain Rail Park
"The agreement calls for Patriot Rail to provide operational and rail-related services within Rocky Mountain Rail Park, located next to the Colorado Air and Space Port in Adams County along Denver's Interstate 70 growth corridor, RMI officials said in a press release."
April 10, 2023
Two Norfolk Southern crew members injured in Alabama derailment
"Two crew members were injured Saturday night when a locomotive and 11 cars of a Norfolk Southern train derailed Saturday night, AL.com reports. Also on Saturday, an NS train was involved in a minor derailment in Pittsburgh"
Minnesota legislature appears ready to fund Twin Cities-Duluth passenger train
"The transportation bill in the state Senate currently provides $50 million for the train — short of what is needed to unlock full federal funding — while the House version calls for $194 million, which would make almost $1 billion in total funds available"
April 6, 2023
U.S. rail traffic slump continues in March
"U.S. rail traffic was down 7.6% in March compared to the same month in 2022, according to statistics from the Association of American Railroads, extending and deepening the downward trend so far in 2023. Traffic for the week ending April 1 was down by 7.4%, the AAR reported"
April 5, 2023
First passenger train returns to Athens - Thessaloniki main line
"HELLENIC Train reintroduced the first passenger service on the Athens - Thessaloniki main line on April 3, with just one round trip running per day instead of the normal seven trains each way. A round trip was also reintroduced between Athens and Kalambaka in central Greece"
Ohio PUCO seeks applicants for hazmat training grants
"The grant application period closes May 31, PUCO officials said in a press release. hazmat planning and survey studies. In 2022, PUCO authorized $800,000 in grants to 16 local governments and educational institutions. Meanwhile, PUCO recently approved safety upgrades at a grade crossing in Hamilton County"
Lawmakers, environmentalists call on feds to block bonds for Uinta Basin rail project
"Three federal lawmakers from Colorado and more than 150 environmental groups have asked U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to block up to $2 billion in tax-exempt bonds that would finance an 88-mile railway in Utah"
April 3, 2023
DB bounces back from pandemic
"Deutsche Bahn group has reported a positive year in 2022, closing with an adjusted EBIT of just over €1∙25bn compared with an operating loss of €1∙55bn in 2021"
March 30, 2023
U.S. rail volume tumbled 7.5% in Week 12
"U.S. rail volumes fell 7.5% to 469,958 carloads and intermodal units for the week ending March 25 compared to the same period a year ago, according to Association of American Railroads data"
Ensco wins Gabon track measuring contract
"TRANSGABONAIS Operating Company (Setrag) has awarded a one-year contract to Ensco, United States, to conduct track geometry measurement on the 648km railway linking the port of Owendo in Libreville and Franceville"
Four rail stations in project's airport segment expected to be done by year's end
"During a virtual business and community meeting Tuesday afternoon, the contractor provided a presentation that showed construction of the four stations — Makalapa, Lelepaua, Ahua and Kahauiki — is expected to be finished before the end of the year"
March 29, 2023
Jewers Doors at Middle East Rail 2023
"Jewers Doors is excited to announce that they will be attending Middle East Rail from 15-16 May 2023. The show will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and will feature over 400 speakers, 3000 exhibitors and 600 VIPs from across the industry"
March 28, 2023
Orange County railroad project to buy into San Luis Rey River habitat restoration
"Orange County railroad project to buy into San Luis Rey River habitat restoration. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has asked the Orange County Transportation Authority to purchase credit for half an acre in the San Luis Rey Mitigation Bank, an area of the river's floodplain being restored to its natural condition."
Judge rules BNSF oil trains violated tribal agreement
"BNSF Railway Company "willfully, consciously and knowingly" trespassed when it violated its easement agreement with the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community by shipping crude oil across reservation land for more than eight years, a Washington federal judge ruled Monday"
March 17, 2023
Alstom wins €250m contract for Innovia monorail system in US
"The contract has a duration of seven years, with an option for a further one year. Scope of the contract includes the operations and maintenance of the vehicle fleet. Credit: Alstom"
March 16, 2023
Talgo sees growth opportunities despite fall in profits
"Spanish rolling stock manufacturer Talgo says it foresees an increase in revenue in 2023, driven by its ongoing projects and the good performance of the rail sector. It is working on several opportunities with a total value of €7"
Seminole commissioners back study to expand SunRail, Brightline
"Seminole commissioners back study to expand SunRail, Brightline. The Sunshine Corridor proposal would have SunRail sharing about 12 miles of those tracks from the airport, to the Orange County Convention Center and then to the South International Drive tourist area, before Brightline continues on to Tampa by 2030"
SWR installing defibrillators at all stations
"South Western Railway (SWR) is set to install publicly accessible automated external defibrillators at all 154 of the staffed stations on its network. The train operator, with stations across the South West of England, is investing over half a million pounds in the project."
March 15, 2023
Rail retailers call for ticketing reforms
"We are calling for fares and ticketing reform to put passengers at its heart and ensure that the ticketing system encourages more people to travel by train by making the process of buying a ticket simpler, fairer and more affordable. Independent retailers have a very important role to play in this process"
Wivenhoe rail station now features a community herb gardens thanks to partnership
"A new herb garden has been installed at Wivenhoe rail station in Essex thanks to a community rail partnership project and the station adopters. Wooden planters filled with a variety of herbs have been installed in the station's garden at the entrance to the station"
March 14, 2023
Alstom Produces Its 1000th Tram in Vienna
"Alstom has celebrated the completion of its 1000th tram manufactured in Vienna, Austria. Since 1990, Alstom Austria, which acquired Bombardier Transport in 2021, has manufactured 1,000 trams in Vienna for customers across the globe."
MTA Rolls Out First R211 Subway Cars in New York
"The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has commenced the rollout of its new R211 subway cars on New York's A line. These vehicles are part of the agency's 535-car order for the R211 model, which includes 440 standard cars, 15 Staten Island Railway five-car trains and 20 open gangway cars."
March 13, 2023
US DOT gets over $1bn allocation for rail safety upgrades
"This funding will expand the US Federal Railroad Administration's core safety efforts besides improving crucial rail infrastructure. The funding will help prevent railroad trespassing and highway-rail grade crossing collisions."
March 9, 2023
Three rail unions sue BNSF over locomotive outsourcing work
"A group of unions announced on March 7 that they have filed suit against BNSF Railway over outsourcing of locomotive inspections, maintenance, and repairs, claiming the railroad is cutting its mechanical workforce to boost profits and failing to act in good faith under its existing labor agreements."
Poland: Airport scheme catalyses high speed network plan
"Government plans to build a central airport and make it the hub of a revamped passenger network for Poland will require the construction of 1981 km of new lines, almost half of which will be dedicated high speed corridors."
March 2, 2023
Tunnel breakthrough is milestone for Lisbon Circular Line
"New line connecting Estrela and Santos expected to open in 2024. Officials and workers celebrate the tunnel breakthrough between the future Estrela and Santos stations on the Lisbon Metro's Circular Line project."
New research suggests electrification possible for 95% of UK freight trains
"The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) has released its electrification strategy research, which highlights an opportunity to electrify 95% of rail freight operations in the UK by the mid-2040s. The detailed map suggests that only 800 miles of additional electrification is needed to enable this."
Inland Rail approvals in NSW
"TWO Inland Rail projects approved by the New South Wales government have now been referred to the federal government. The Australian Rail Track Corporation said the NSW government approved the Narromine to Narrabri project and the North Star to the New South Wales/Queensland Border project."
NGE wins HSR construction contract in Egypt
"Works cover construction of 330 km of double track and over 100 turnouts between the cities of Ain Al Sokhna and Borg El Arab. NGE will be responsible for the construction of 330km of highspeed line in Egypt."
Systra wins signalling contract for Naples network
"Systra SWS and Systra Sotecni have been awarded a contract, as part of a consortium commissioned by Alstom, to renew the signalling systems on Naples rail network."
March 1, 2023
Alstom Delivers First Metropolis Train for São Paulo Lines 8 and 9
"Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, delivered the first 8900 series train to ViaMobilidade, the concessionaire that manages lines 8-Diamante and 9-Esmeralda of São Paulo, thus marking the beginning of a new journey in urban mobility in the greater São Paulo area."
Feb 28, 2023
Governor Hobbs Plans Major Investments to Build a Resilient, Innovative and Prosperous Arizona For Everyone
"$7.5 million in one-time funding to serve as a catalyst to partner with local entities in securing federal support and funding to restore interstate passenger rail service to Phoenix, which has not had interstate passenger rail service since 1996"
Feb 27, 2023
Alstom, Medha-Stadler consortium bids for $3.6bn Vande Bharat trains contract
"Scope of the contract will include the production and maintenance of 100 aluminium Vande Bharat trains for 35 years. The winning bidder will secure $1.57bn receive after the delivery of new rail vehicles."
MA: Outlook 2023: Region gets on board for passenger rail
"Bustling train platforms are a scene rail boosters and economic developers believe can happen more often if there is more rail service in the area. The platform at Greenfield's John W. Olver Transit Center is unusually busy on a recent Tuesday afternoon."
Feb 26, 2023
BNSF Railway earnings decline as traffic falls and costs rise
" BNSF Railway's pre-tax earnings declined 1.9% in 2022 due to a combination of lower volume and higher costs, the railroad's parent company, Berkshire Hathaway, reported on Saturday."
Feb 22, 2023
Amtrak is spending billions on new train cars. The Northeast Corridor should be 1st in line
"Amtrak is spending billions on new train cars. The Northeast Corridor should be 1st in line, some experts say. When Amtrak's sleek new Airo train cars roll off the assembly line in 2026, they're headed for the Cascades route in the Pacific Northwest."
Feb 21, 2023
Midlands Rail Hub would cut 29.3m miles travelled by car per year
"Midlands Rail Hub would cut 29.3m miles travelled by car per year. New research has shown that a rail enhancement project in Britain, the Midlands Rail Hub, would lead to 30 million more miles being travelled by passengers on the region's trains each year"
Feb 20, 2023
Madrid airport high speed rail link contract awarded
"Infrastructure manager ADIF has awarded a consortium of Lantania and ASCH Infraestructuras y Servicios a €21. 3m contract to undertake works for a 8. 8 km long 1 435 mm gauge line which will enable high speed trains to access Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport Terminal 4 from Chamartín."
Stadler will produce and deliver Norway’s new long-distance trains
"Stadler have been awarded a contract to produce and deliver 17 new long-distance trains for Norske tog AS in 2024. Norske Tog AS has announced that Stadler has been awarded a contract to produce 17 long-distance trains. The contract includes options, allowing up to 100 new trains to be acquired by Stadler"
Feb 17, 2023
EPA administrator tries to reassure residents during East Palestine visit
"The EPA's administrator, Michael Regan, walked along a creek that still reeks of chemicals and sought to reassure skeptical residents that the water was fit for drinking and the air safe to breathe around East Palestine, where just less than 5,000 people live near the Pennsylvania state line"
New underground ‘impediment’ discovered during SWLRT work
"MN: New underground 'impediment' discovered during SWLRT work. Contractors working in the Kenilworth corridor recently encountered what appears to be a large piece of concrete about three feet away from the foundation of the Cedar Isles Condominiums, which were built in the 1980s from repurposed grain silos."
SWR to trial QR code technology to enhance passenger experience
"UK train operator, South Western Railway (SWR), is set to trial a digital service on board a select number of trains in early 2023. Passengers will be able to scan QR codes located in prominent areas of their train such as seat backs, tables, accessible areas and toilet facilities"
Feb 13, 2023
CTA awards contract to renovate Racine Blue Line station with accessibility and tech improvements
"CTA awards contract to renovate Racine Blue Line station with accessibility and tech improvements. The station, originally constructed in 1958, is the ninth station to advance through CTA's All Stations Accessibility Program that aims to make 100 percent of the authority's rail stations fully accessible by 2038"
MARTA: Violent crime fell in 2022
"In 2022, MPD reported a 17 percent reduction in Part 1 crimes (violent and property crimes), and a 42 percent reduction in operator assaults. Enforcement of MARTA's Ride With Respect Program resulted in over 5,000 temporary or yearlong system suspensions for violators and over 70 permanent bans."
Feb 10, 2023
Seattle's streetcar dithering criticized in federal audit
"The U.S. Department of Transportation shouldn't let Seattle sit on $7.4 million in transit grants the city failed to spend on streetcar extensions along First Avenue and on Broadway, a new audit says."
South Africa’s Transnet to trim freight rail network by 35%
"South African state-owned logistics firm Transnet is set to reduce its freight rail network by around 35% as it deals with theft of cables utilised to run its electric trains and scarcity of locomotive parts, reported Bloomberg."
World’s longest underwater rail-road tunnel to connect Germany and Denmark
"The Fehmarn Belt fixed link (Danish: Femern Bælt-forbindelsen, German: Fehmarnbelt-Querung) or Fehmarn Belt tunnel is an under-construction immersed tunnel, which will connect the Danish island of Lolland with the German island of Fehmarn, crossing the 18-kilometre-wide (11 mi) Fehmarn Belt in the Baltic Sea."
Spain spends €258m to build trains too big for its tunnels
"Two Spanish transport executives have been fired after a train fiasco that saw the design of 31 trains that were too big for the tunnels on the line where they would run. Spain recently spent €258m (£228m) in designing 31 trains that will be delayed by several years due to a major design flaw"
Feb 9, 2023
RENFE to create French subsidiary
"Renfe have announced that its Board of Directors have agreed to submit to the Ministry of Finance and Public Function, through MITMA, the proposal to create a subsidiary in France. This new subsidiary will allow Renfe to sign contracts, issue invoices, hire staff, and offer market services (ticket sales) in France"
Feb 8, 2023
Line upgrade to boost rail freight capacity at Port of Antwerp
"The project will boost rail freight capacity in the north of the Port of Antwerp. BELGIAN infrastructure manager Infrabel has announced a project to electrify and track-double the 5km L11 rail freight line, which will double rail capacity and eliminate a bottleneck on a key route to the Port of Antwerp"
Israel Railways buys Rail Vision AI-based systems to boost train safety
"Israel Railways buys Rail Vision AI-based systems to boost train safety. Rail Vision's tech provides real-time visual and acoustic alerts for train's command-and-control centre to avoid collisions. The system has been designed to detect obstacles on the railway line."
Feb 6, 2023
Huge programme of signalling work continues between Feltham and Wokingham
"Huge programme of signalling work continues between Feltham and Wokingham. During February half term, a dual railway closure will see lines closed for nine days as Network Rail continue to bring the old signalling system up to modern standards."
£4.2 billion for operations, maintenance and renewals of rail infrastructure in Scotland
"RIA Scotland has welcomed the publication of the the High-Level Output Specification (HLOS) and Statement of Funds Available (SoFA) for Scotland's Railway infrastructure for Control Period 7 (CP7, April 2024 to March 2029)"
FS sign MoUs with Lufthansa and Ita to improve rail-air links
"FS sign MoUs with Lufthansa and Ita to improve rail-air links. The MoUs aim to provide a connectivity to passengers using FS rail connections to various Italian airports. Lufthansa offers its passengers more than 3,000 weekly rail as well as bus connections to its passengers"
Governments Explore New Rail Links between England and Wales
"The UK and Welsh governments are working together on a 2.7 million GBP study that will explore options for new rail stations and services on the South Wales Main Line."
Feb 2, 2023
Rolling stock climate test chamber opens
"FRANCE: A rolling stock climate testing chamber which can provide temperatures from -45°C to 70°C and humidity from 5% to 95% has been built at the Centre d'Essais Ferroviaires centre in Valenciennes."
Indian Railways funding boosted to record levels
"The government will increase funding for the national railway network to its highest ever level in 2023-24, in order to support further capital investment, according to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman"
Nexrail orders 50 locomotives
"NEXRAIL.lease is further expanding its leasing business in Western Europe with an order for 50 low-emission DE 18 Stage V locomotives from Vossloh Rolling Stock.
The bulk of the order consists of a batch of 40 locomotives with German homologation, to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2023."
Feb 1, 2023
Engels Locomotive Plant sold
"RUSSIA: The bankrupt Engels Locomotive Plant has been purchased by Inter Cargo Co for 2. 8bn roubles, below the auction's starting price of 3. 83bn roubles."
Jan 30, 2023
SEPTA said 'there really is no way forward' to build the Roosevelt Boulevard subway
"SEPTA said 'there really is no way forward' to build the Roosevelt Boulevard subway. Building a subway-elevated rail line down the median of Roosevelt Boulevard would cost at least $3 billion."
BART service restored between Oakland and S.F. after unexpected closure
"after unexpected closure. BART service across the Bay has been restored Friday morning after unscheduled track repairs in downtown Oakland shut down most service between San Francisco and Oakland, causing a "major delay system wide," the transit agency said.
Port of Long Beach unveils renewable energy, zero emissions initiatives
"The Port of Long Beach is known internationally as an industry leader in advancing cleaner cargo movement. In order to tackle greenhouse gases and criteria pollutants, the Port of Long Beach has set a goal of all zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment by 2030 and a zero-emissions drayage truck fleet by 2035."
First female train drivers begin work in Saudi Arabia
"34 female drivers are now working on the Haramain high-speed line in Saudi Arabia. SAUDI Arabia is celebrating the start of work by 34 female train drivers on the Haramain high-speed line between Mecca and Medina. More than 28,000 women applied for the roles when they were made public."
Jan 27, 2023
Government approves £48 million of funding for transformation of Peterborough’s Station Quarter
"Government approves £48 million of funding for transformation of Peterborough's Station Quarter. A total of £48 million is on its way to Peterborough, following a successful Levelling Up Fund bid for the first phase of regeneration of the area around Peterborough station – known as Station Quarter."
Jan 25, 2023
Cambodia to spend $4bn in Phnom Penh-Poipet rail overhaul
"The upgrade will help launch the first high-speed rail in the country. The high-speed rail line will have more than 300 overpasses along the route"
Jan 23, 2023
Underground suburban station in Santiago approved
"CHILE: On January 5 the government granted environmental approval for construction of a 3. 2 km double-track tunnel and underground station to be built to serve Santiago's Central-Alameda complex as part of the Alameda – Melipilla suburban rail scheme."
Varamis launches fully-electric freight train for logistics services in UK
"Varamis launches fully-electric freight train for logistics services in UK. Intended to run between Scotland and the Midlands, the new service will focus on next day delivery of consumer goods. The new fully electric service will serve as an environmentally friendly alternative to road haulage."
Tripling EU HSR network would need EUR 550 billion
Jan 21, 2023
Pittsburgh light-rail service temporarily shut down following fire beneath rail bridge
"Pittsburgh Regional Transit shut down parts of its light rail service for about an hour Tuesday as a small fire started on the ground underneath Pittsburgh's Panhandle Bridge."
Jan 20, 2023
Metra hauls in competitive Federal grants
"In 2022, Metra received $247.8 million in federal formula funds. The Chicago area's congressional delegation delivered for Metra in 2022, helping secure $204.1 million in competitive federal grants for Metra projects, according to the agency's news release."
BNSF announces $US 3.96bn 2023 capital plan
"The plan allocates $US 2.85bn to maintaining its core network and related assets. BNSF plans to spend $2.85bn replacing and upgrading rail and track infrastructure, such as ballast and sleepers, and maintaining rolling stock"
Northern gives international delegation a first glimpse of technology made famous by NASA ‘in service’
"More than 60 national and international rail industry professionals have been treated to a sneak preview of some of the new technology Northern has been pioneering as part of its Intelligent Trains programme"
RB Rail launches tender for CCS subsystem
"RB Rail has announced the design and build tender for the Rail Baltica control-command and signalling subsystem (CCS) implementation. The public procurement procedure is carried out in two stages with negotiations, and the contract is expected to be signed in mid-2024."
Jan 19, 2023
Amtrak petitions FRA to retire fixed wayside signals in Maryland
"Amtrak is seeking Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) approval to retire fixed wayside signals as automatic block points on the Mid-Atlantic Division's Philadelphia-to-Washington line (a Northeast Corridor branch), according to a notice in the Federal Register's Jan. 17 edition."
Georgia DOT wraps up first CRISI-funded project
"The Georgia Department of Transportation completed its first Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grant project this month, which included upgrades along 138 miles of the Heart of Georgia (HOG) Railroad from Vidalia to Preston."
High-speed rail to downtown S.F. is back on track -- but the price tag keeps going up
"That new effort includes a new price tag for the long-promised expansion — $6.7 billion, up from $5 billion in 2016. This is the estimated cost to bring commuter trains and a route for high-speed rail service from Mission Bay to First and Mission streets by 2033."
Limerick – Foynes railway reopening contract awarded
"Irish Rail has awarded John Sisk & Son a £57M contract for the first phase of works to reinstate the Limerick to Foynes rail line for freight service."
Northern unveils Intelligent Train for in-service infrastructure monitoring
"An 'Intelligent Train' concept demonstrator has been developed by Northern in partnership with Network Rail to facilitate detailed real-time infrastructure monitoring using trains in regular passenger service."
Jan 18, 2023
The EU's post-Brexit Entry-Exit System (EES) has been delayed once again
"The EU's post-Brexit Entry-Exit System (EES) has been delayed once again. This means non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area will be spared the anticipated chaos of the new border controls a little longer. Originally slated to launch in 2022, the EES was at first rescheduled for May 2023"
RENFE starts tests before relaunching cross-border high speed services to France
"Spain's rail operator Renfe has begun testing two new cross-border high-speed rail routes to France that could begin carrying passengers by summer. Renfe tested through AVE train service from Madrid Atocha to Marseille on Tuesday, and from Barcelona Sants to Lyon on Monday."
USDCF to Develop California Biofuels Terminal
"USD Clean Fuels LLC (USDCF) announced its intention to build a new biofuels terminal in National City, California, that will have the capability to transload renewable diesel, biodiesel, ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)"
Jan 17, 2023
Nurminen Logistics to buy Operail’s Finnish rail freight operations
"Estonian state-run logistics company Operail has agreed to offload its Finnish freight transport services to Nurminen Logistics for €27.7m. A purchase and sale contract has been signed in this regard. Operail commenced freight services in Finland at the end of 2020."
Fox Group has begun its expansion into rail with the opening of its railhead in Leyland.
"Fox Group has begun its expansion into rail with the opening of its railhead in Leyland. An article on Insider Media Limited says the railhead sidings, which were initially built in 1953, were relayed in 2018 and utilised by Network Rail for storage during the Blackpool electrification scheme.
The takeover and opening of the railhead by Fox Group has been in the works for more than two years, with the teams working closely with Lancashire County Council to get the railhead back to its intended purposes.
"
Northern looking to recruit up to 280 drivers and conductors in 2023
"Train operator, Northern, has announced plans to recruit as many as 280 drivers and conductors across the North of England in 2023."
Jan 16, 2023
RDC Germany buys class 101 locomotives from DB
"The locomotives will haul overnight and car transporter trains. A DB 101 locomotive hauling an express train in October 2022. RDC Germany has bought two class 101 electric locomotives from German Rail (DB) and has agreed options to buy three more."
Rail Cargo Group launches Serbian subsidiary
"Subsidiary will handle transit traffic from Turkey. AUSTRIAN Federal Railways (ÖBB) subsidiary Rail Cargo Group (RCG) has established a new subsidiary, Rail Cargo Carrier-Southeast, which is registered as a freight operator in Serbia."
Stadler wins DB Netz ETCS contract
"Stadler and DB Netz AG signed a contract for retrofitting up to 80 maintenance and track service vehicles with the Stadler ETCS train control system GUARDIA (European Train Control System). The GUARDIA system will be used for the first time on a large scale in the maintenance sector at Deutsche Bahn"
CPK moves from planning to the design phase
"Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) moves from the planning phase to the design phase and summarizes 10 key 2022 achievements. In the past year, binding decisions have been made that have a direct impact on the shape of the airport, its capacity, its integration with the railways and its phased construction."
Jan 15, 2023
GERMAN infrastructure manager DB Networks has launched a tender for up to six rail milling machines
"The contract includes a firm order for one machine, with the framework agreement to run until the end of 2023. The machine must be suitable for operation on class D2 track, with a maximum speed of at least 120km/h when moving between milling operations."
Jan 13, 2023
ADCO to build new train station in Queensland, Australia
"ADCO Constructions has secured a contract to design and construct the new Pimpama train station on the Gold Coast Line in Queensland, Australia. The station is the first of three planned stations on the Gold Coast through Cross River Rail."
Rome signs framework agreement for 30 Hitachi metro trains
"ROME city council has signed a €264m framework agreement with Hitachi Rail for the supply of 30 trains for metro lines A and B. The contract, signed on December 29, includes a firm order for 14 trains, including 12 for Line B and two for Line A"
Belo Horizonte Metro concession awarded
"THE governments of Brazil and the state of Minas Gerais have awarded the Comporte Participações consortium a 30-year concession to operate and maintain the Belo Horizonte Metro, which will see the route pass to the private sector from state-owned commuter rail operator Brazilian Urban Trains Company (CBTU)."
Tunnelling starts on Metro Manila Subway
"The initial start of construction was in October 2022 following a groundbreaking ceremony led by Philippines president, Mr Ferdinand Marcos, in Pasig City. At the same time the awarding of contracts for stages of the project was announced."
Jan 12, 2023
DB introducing new display system to make travel more convenient for passengers
"Deutsche Bahn (DB) are introducing real-time capacity utilisation displays to help passengers on their journeys. The display system, which will gradually go live over the next few months, will pass information on capacity directly to passengers on the platform, on the vehicle and via app."
RATP shuffles rubber-tyred rolling stock as part of Line 6 upgrade
Alstom to supply 10 trains for Santo Domingo Metro
"French rolling stock manufacturer Alstom has received a contract for the delivery of Metropolis trains to the Santo Domingo Metro in the Dominican Republic. Under the contract, Alstom will be responsible for the manufacture, supply and placement into service of ten new Metropolis trains with three cars each."
Thales wins new signalling maintenance contract in Spain
"France-based Thales has received a contract for the delivery of technology for the Seville – Malaga – Granada high-speed train line in Spain. The contract, which is valued at around €11.6m, has an execution period time of over 17 months."
Moscow plans to modernise all tram depots
"Moscow Metro has confirmed that reconstruction of the Russian capital's five tramway depots, and the addition of a brand-new facility, will be complete by 2040."
Jan 11, 2023
Canadian government announces funding for Huron Central improvements
"The Member of Provincial Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, Ross Romano, announced additional funding of up to $10.5 million from the Government of Ontario. Combined with contributions from Huron Central Railway Inc., the total investment in the project is $31.5 million."
Construction starts on Line 1 of Abidjan Metro
"Amended contract to build and operate 37km route now worth €1.77bn. CONSTRUCTION of the first metro line in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast, is now underway following the signing of an amendment to the contract to design, build, operate and maintain the 37km route"
Istanbul opens metro Line 8
"The 14.3km driverless route connects lines 4 and 5. ISTANBUL's metro network has grown by 14.3km with the opening of Line 8 on the eastern side of the Bosphorus on January 6."
Jan 10, 2023
San Francisco Opens New Subway
"San Francisco recently opened its first new subway in over 40 years, with three new underground stations and one above-ground station joining the Muni Metro T Third line."
Phase 2 of the BerdiBa Project Has Started
"The project, co-funded by the European Union, aims to design and evaluate an innovative digital rail system, including an autonomous train. The pilot project started at the beginning of 2022, and we will step up research from 2023. The end of phase 2 is expected in July 2024"
Freight traffic sets new records in Kazakhstan
"Traffic with China up 14% year on year. KAZAKHSTAN Railways (KTZ) reports that freight traffic on its network set a new record of over 252 billion tonne-km in 2022, up 5.2% on the year before"
GB Railfreight announce locomotive leasing deal with Akiem
"GBRf have agreed a 10-year locomotive leasing deal with Akiem which will see £25 million invested to increase the number of locomotives across GBRf’s operations."
DB opens an expanded facility in Berlin
"The DB Board Member for Long Distance Passenger Transport, Michael Peterson, and the Mayor of Berlin Franziska Giffey inaugurated the extended Rummelsburg ICE facility following a EUR 200 million investment."
Jan 9, 2023
Kampala - Malaba upgrade to be completed in February
"Contractor China Road and Bridge reports work 95% complete. WORK to upgrade the 1000mm-gauge route from the Ugandan capital Kampala to Malaba on the border with Kenya is due to finish next month, according to contractor China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC)."
Supreme Rail pushes for more independence from Korail
"The move comes after a merger between Korail and SR was shelved. KOREAN high-speed operator Supreme Rail (SR) has revealed that it will push for further independence and review existing contracts with its majority shareholder, Korea's national operator Korail."
Jan 8, 2023
"CSX gets Pan Am work off the ground. CSX plans to spend more than $100 million over the next three years to improve Pan Am's main lines and yards. The deal adds Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and, via haulage rights, Saint John, New Brunswick, to the CSX network while expanding its reach in New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut."
Jan 6, 2023
"California cap-and-trade registration backlog more than doubles in Q4 amid longer wait times"
Jan 5, 2023
"Legislators favor paring down MBTA to subway
In a new report, the Legislature's Joint Committee on Transportation recommended a structural change that would leave the MBTA in charge only of subway and bus operations, stripping it of Commuter Rail, ferry and construction responsibilities"
"For 2022, Overall North American Rail Volume Down
North American rail volume for the first 50 weeks of 2022 was 33,849,073 carloads and intermodal units, down 1.8 percent compared with 2021"
"Two Chicago rail stations recognized for architecture.
Garfield Station on the Green Line received the BLT Built Design award in the bridges and public architecture category, CTA officials said in a press release. This is the second award the temporary Bryn Mawr Station received in 2022."
Jan 4, 2023
"Union Pacific continues to embargo traffic in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
The embargo will take effect Thursday, December 29, 2022, and is expected to be needed for an estimate of 14 days. Union Pacific will be monitoring the inventory levels in this region and will lift the embargo sooner if possible. Permits will be issued as needed to protect critical supply chains"
"New train station in Coatesville just years away. With an expected completion date set for fall 2025, work is underway for a new $65 million train station project in the city. The job includes design, station and streetscape construction, Amtrak support, and Amtrak track work at Fleetwood Street, just east of the existing historic station building."
"Deutsche Bahn (DB) has reached its target volume for biofuel two years ahead of target. The German state rail operator has announced that it's using double the amount of biofuel in its diesel locomotives than it had predicted for this time – 17 million litres of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)"
Jan 3, 2023
"METRO: A Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority train struck and critically injured a bicyclist in Long Beach on Saturday morning, briefly interrupting rail service while emergency crews aided the injured man, authorities said."
"More than $405 million in transit related projects included in FY23 congressionally directed spending. The FY23 Omnibus Package signed by President Biden at the end of December includes designated funding for more than 140 transit, passenger rail and TOD projects."
"FRANCE: The last of the four metre-gauge electric multiple-units supplied by Stadler to re-equip the Tramway du Mont-Blanc mountain railway entered service on December 21"
"Brightline: With the intercity route's expansion to Orlando and then Tampa, Brightline’s senior vice president of corporate development, Christine Kefauver, recently told various news outlets that the higher-speed train will reach speeds up to 125 mph between West Palm Beach and Orlando, and up to 150 mph between Orlando and Tampa."
Bologna Red Line construction begins
"On 7 March 2019, the mayor of Bologna officially announced plans to build a new citywide tramway network. As of June 2022, the tender for the executive design and construction of tramway line 1 (red line) has been awarded: the whole line is expected to be operational by 2026"
SMART plans spending surge for rail, path projects
"The $110 million that SMART plans to spend in the 2023-2024 fiscal year is a significant increase from the $77 million projected in this fiscal year. Most of the increase would be allotted for $41.6 million of rail and path construction projects beginning this year"
Work in progress to upgrade BNSF’s old Sandpoint bridge
"SANDPOINT, Idaho — With BNSF Railway and Montana Rail Link trains now using the new 4,873-foot long Lake Pend Oreille bridge opened in late November 2022 outside Sandpoint, Idaho, the adjacent bridge opened by Northern Pacific in 1904 is undergoing reconstruction."
May 17, 2023
Deutsche Bahn Invests €2bn in 73 New ICE Trains
"Deutsche Bahn (DB) has announced a 2 billion EUR investment in 73 new ICE trains from Talgo and Siemens Mobility. This is one of the largest procurement projects in the company's history, and includes 56 ICE L trains from Talgo and 17 ICE 3neo trains from Siemens Mobility"
May 16, 2023
Russian Railways orders domestically-developed EMUs
"Russian Railways has awarded Sinara Transport Machines a contract to supply 22 five-car electric multiple-units to the ES104 Vostok design, which has been developed as the basis for a family of trains using domestically-produced components"
May 15, 2023
News photos: ‘Poseidon’ helps CN fight Alberta fires
"Poseidon has roamed the rails not only protecting CN infrastructure but aiding local fire-fighting efforts where needed. It joins vehicles deployed by other western North American railroads in dealing what has become a spring-through-fall wildfire season."
May 9, 2023
Keolis wins operation and maintenance contract in the Netherlands
"Running between Amersfoort and Ede-Wageningen, the 13-year contract will start in December 2023, generating €150 million in revenue over its duration"
May 8, 2023
BNSF Rebuilds One Bridge, Begins Another in the Northwest
"The completion in November 2022 of the adjacent 4,873-foot long Bridge 3.9B allowed BNSF to divert all traffic off of the older bridge and resume its renovations that began more than a decade ago. During 2008-09, new piers and deck spans were installed at both ends of the 1904 bridge"
May 4, 2023
Mozambique's Machipanda line will be ready within six months
"CFM chairman guarantees 318km line rehabilitation project will be completed by October. Chairman of the board of directors of CFM, Mr Agostinho Langa Júnior, meeting track teams working on the Machipanda main line rehabilitation project"
April rail traffic remains below 2022 levels
" U.S. freight rail traffic in April was down 6% from the same month in 2022, a slight improvement over the previous month, according to statistics from the Association of American Railroads. The figures for the month included a 1.8% increase in carload traffic and a 12.7% decline in intermodal volume"
Siemens presentation offers opportunity to compare hydrogen, battery-powered trains
"A recent presentation by Siemens offered the opportunity to compare the company's new hydrogen and battery trains for Europe, and provided a look at a new road-transport-based mobile hydrogen filling station. The equipment was presented at the Siemens-owned test center in northwestern Germany"
Rail regulation bill advances in Pennsylvania legislature
"The bill includes provisions limiting train lengths to 8,500 feet; prohibiting delay of an emergency vehicle at a blocked grade crossing for more than five minutes; and requiring two-person crews"
May 1, 2023
MBTA inspection finds 283 track defects need repairs to lift slow zones
"The MBTA completed a systemwide track inspection, a preliminary step needed to begin lifting the plethora of speed restrictions that plague each subway line. This inspection and validation process determined that there are 283 track defects across the transit system that require some type of repair"
California enacts first-in-the-nation crackdown on pollution from trains
"California enacts first-in-the-nation crackdown on pollution from trains. State regulators unanimously voted Thursday requiring train companies that operate in the state to swap out their dirtiest locomotives to the cleanest diesel models and eventually to zero-emission models"
April 28, 2023
Construction underway at MxV Rail's PuebloPlex
"MxV Rail yesterday announced the second construction phase of its PuebloPlex in Pueblo, Colorado, is underway. The 2023 construction plan calls for implementation of the facility for accelerated service testing (FAST) loop, the curving performance track and the suspension resonance track"
April 25, 2023
Why TECHNO-CRETE® Is the Practical Choice of Foundation Material
"With fewer tonnes of material to deal with on site, TECHNO-CRETE® reduces manual handling and results in less back damage and muscle fatigue amongst operatives. With fewer health and safety issues on site, injury claims are therefore decreased"
April 24, 2023
Ukraine reopens rebuilt Irpin River rail bridges
"The western bridge was temporarily repaired, with services resuming on May 8 2022. UZ has now completed a major overhaul of both bridges, removing damaged sections and rebuilding one crossing to allow operation to resume on both bridges"
April 21, 2023
Getlink announces all-time high revenue of €506.9m
"An all-time high revenue of €506.9m for the first quarter of 2023 was announced by Getlink. Environmental responsibility will also increase the use of rail as a popular mode of transport. Credit: Pixabay. Getlink, formerly Groupe Eurotunnel, has announced revenue of €506.9m for Q1 2023"
April 20, 2023
Funds allotted for purchase of Texarkana Union Station
"For the first time since in more than 20 years, the Union Station in downtown Texarkana may have a chance at a new life. The Arkansas-side Board of Directors agreed Monday in a 4-2 vote to green-light a $200,000 contribution to help the city of Texarkana, Texas, buy the vintage train station."
April 19, 2023
Berlin tram network ups the voltage
"Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe has completed conversion of the traction power supply on its entire 196 route-km tram network from 600 V DC to 750 V DC"
ERA approves Vossloh’s DE 18 Stage V locomotive for use in Italy
"The DE 18 Stage V locomotive will help Italian operators drastically reduce their environmental impact. The European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) has approved Vossloh Rolling Stock's DE 18 Stage V mixed-traffic locomotive for use on the Italian railway network"
April 18, 2023
WMATA board OKs $4.8 billion budget for FY2024
"Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's board late last week approved a $4.8 billion combined capital and operating budget for fiscal-year 2024"
April 14, 2023
SNCF committed to NExTEO roll out
"Despite speculation to the contrary, SNCF Réseau and its contractors are continuing to roll out the NExTEO communications-based train control system which will manage the extended RER Line E in Paris, as project manager Jérôme Lefebvre explains to Jérémie Anne"
April 13, 2023
RZD orders 42 electric trains
"By the end of this year, TMH will deliver Russian Railways a fleet of 220 coaches comprising 90 EP2D typpe and 130 EP3D model railcars. The 16 EP2D train fleet will consist of several versions including one 10-car train, two 8-car, six 6-car and seven 4-car versions"
Angolan railway expansion project approved
'ANGOLA: The government has approved funding for the construction of a 260 km railway to serve the inland provinces of Moxico and Lunda Sul. The Ministry of Transport has been authorised to award a US$1'
Greenbrier Express sets inaugural run, start of regular operations
"The inaugural run of Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad's Greenbrier Express operation is set for Saturday, May 13, the railroad has announced. The initial run on the recently reopened, 15-mile Cass-to-Durbin remnant of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad's Greenbrier Subdivision quickly sold out"
April 12, 2023
British effort seeks to build new 0-4-4 tank engine
"G5 Locomotive Co. Ltd. Enter the Class G5 Locomotive Co., which is seeking support for its effort to build an 0-4-4 tank locomotive that it says will be economical to run and maintain with a high route availability, low axle weight and ability to take tight corners."
At least five hurt in Houston collision between light rail train, ambulance
" At least five people were injured Tuesday night when a METRORail train and Houston Fire Department ambulance collided in downtown Houston, according to media reports."
April 11, 2023
Patriot Rail to serve Rocky Mountain Rail Park
"The agreement calls for Patriot Rail to provide operational and rail-related services within Rocky Mountain Rail Park, located next to the Colorado Air and Space Port in Adams County along Denver's Interstate 70 growth corridor, RMI officials said in a press release."
April 10, 2023
Two Norfolk Southern crew members injured in Alabama derailment
"Two crew members were injured Saturday night when a locomotive and 11 cars of a Norfolk Southern train derailed Saturday night, AL.com reports. Also on Saturday, an NS train was involved in a minor derailment in Pittsburgh"
Minnesota legislature appears ready to fund Twin Cities-Duluth passenger train
"The transportation bill in the state Senate currently provides $50 million for the train — short of what is needed to unlock full federal funding — while the House version calls for $194 million, which would make almost $1 billion in total funds available"
April 6, 2023
U.S. rail traffic slump continues in March
"U.S. rail traffic was down 7.6% in March compared to the same month in 2022, according to statistics from the Association of American Railroads, extending and deepening the downward trend so far in 2023. Traffic for the week ending April 1 was down by 7.4%, the AAR reported"
April 5, 2023
First passenger train returns to Athens - Thessaloniki main line
"HELLENIC Train reintroduced the first passenger service on the Athens - Thessaloniki main line on April 3, with just one round trip running per day instead of the normal seven trains each way. A round trip was also reintroduced between Athens and Kalambaka in central Greece"
Ohio PUCO seeks applicants for hazmat training grants
"The grant application period closes May 31, PUCO officials said in a press release. hazmat planning and survey studies. In 2022, PUCO authorized $800,000 in grants to 16 local governments and educational institutions. Meanwhile, PUCO recently approved safety upgrades at a grade crossing in Hamilton County"
Lawmakers, environmentalists call on feds to block bonds for Uinta Basin rail project
"Three federal lawmakers from Colorado and more than 150 environmental groups have asked U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to block up to $2 billion in tax-exempt bonds that would finance an 88-mile railway in Utah"
April 3, 2023
DB bounces back from pandemic
"Deutsche Bahn group has reported a positive year in 2022, closing with an adjusted EBIT of just over €1∙25bn compared with an operating loss of €1∙55bn in 2021"
March 30, 2023
U.S. rail volume tumbled 7.5% in Week 12
"U.S. rail volumes fell 7.5% to 469,958 carloads and intermodal units for the week ending March 25 compared to the same period a year ago, according to Association of American Railroads data"
Ensco wins Gabon track measuring contract
"TRANSGABONAIS Operating Company (Setrag) has awarded a one-year contract to Ensco, United States, to conduct track geometry measurement on the 648km railway linking the port of Owendo in Libreville and Franceville"
Four rail stations in project's airport segment expected to be done by year's end
"During a virtual business and community meeting Tuesday afternoon, the contractor provided a presentation that showed construction of the four stations — Makalapa, Lelepaua, Ahua and Kahauiki — is expected to be finished before the end of the year"
March 29, 2023
Jewers Doors at Middle East Rail 2023
"Jewers Doors is excited to announce that they will be attending Middle East Rail from 15-16 May 2023. The show will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and will feature over 400 speakers, 3000 exhibitors and 600 VIPs from across the industry"
March 28, 2023
Orange County railroad project to buy into San Luis Rey River habitat restoration
"Orange County railroad project to buy into San Luis Rey River habitat restoration. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has asked the Orange County Transportation Authority to purchase credit for half an acre in the San Luis Rey Mitigation Bank, an area of the river's floodplain being restored to its natural condition."
Judge rules BNSF oil trains violated tribal agreement
"BNSF Railway Company "willfully, consciously and knowingly" trespassed when it violated its easement agreement with the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community by shipping crude oil across reservation land for more than eight years, a Washington federal judge ruled Monday"
March 17, 2023
Alstom wins €250m contract for Innovia monorail system in US
"The contract has a duration of seven years, with an option for a further one year. Scope of the contract includes the operations and maintenance of the vehicle fleet. Credit: Alstom"
March 16, 2023
Talgo sees growth opportunities despite fall in profits
"Spanish rolling stock manufacturer Talgo says it foresees an increase in revenue in 2023, driven by its ongoing projects and the good performance of the rail sector. It is working on several opportunities with a total value of €7"
Seminole commissioners back study to expand SunRail, Brightline
"Seminole commissioners back study to expand SunRail, Brightline. The Sunshine Corridor proposal would have SunRail sharing about 12 miles of those tracks from the airport, to the Orange County Convention Center and then to the South International Drive tourist area, before Brightline continues on to Tampa by 2030"
SWR installing defibrillators at all stations
"South Western Railway (SWR) is set to install publicly accessible automated external defibrillators at all 154 of the staffed stations on its network. The train operator, with stations across the South West of England, is investing over half a million pounds in the project."
March 15, 2023
Rail retailers call for ticketing reforms
"We are calling for fares and ticketing reform to put passengers at its heart and ensure that the ticketing system encourages more people to travel by train by making the process of buying a ticket simpler, fairer and more affordable. Independent retailers have a very important role to play in this process"
Wivenhoe rail station now features a community herb gardens thanks to partnership
"A new herb garden has been installed at Wivenhoe rail station in Essex thanks to a community rail partnership project and the station adopters. Wooden planters filled with a variety of herbs have been installed in the station's garden at the entrance to the station"
March 14, 2023
Alstom Produces Its 1000th Tram in Vienna
"Alstom has celebrated the completion of its 1000th tram manufactured in Vienna, Austria. Since 1990, Alstom Austria, which acquired Bombardier Transport in 2021, has manufactured 1,000 trams in Vienna for customers across the globe."
MTA Rolls Out First R211 Subway Cars in New York
"The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has commenced the rollout of its new R211 subway cars on New York's A line. These vehicles are part of the agency's 535-car order for the R211 model, which includes 440 standard cars, 15 Staten Island Railway five-car trains and 20 open gangway cars."
March 13, 2023
US DOT gets over $1bn allocation for rail safety upgrades
"This funding will expand the US Federal Railroad Administration's core safety efforts besides improving crucial rail infrastructure. The funding will help prevent railroad trespassing and highway-rail grade crossing collisions."
March 9, 2023
Three rail unions sue BNSF over locomotive outsourcing work
"A group of unions announced on March 7 that they have filed suit against BNSF Railway over outsourcing of locomotive inspections, maintenance, and repairs, claiming the railroad is cutting its mechanical workforce to boost profits and failing to act in good faith under its existing labor agreements."
Poland: Airport scheme catalyses high speed network plan
"Government plans to build a central airport and make it the hub of a revamped passenger network for Poland will require the construction of 1981 km of new lines, almost half of which will be dedicated high speed corridors."
March 2, 2023
Tunnel breakthrough is milestone for Lisbon Circular Line
"New line connecting Estrela and Santos expected to open in 2024. Officials and workers celebrate the tunnel breakthrough between the future Estrela and Santos stations on the Lisbon Metro's Circular Line project."
New research suggests electrification possible for 95% of UK freight trains
"The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) has released its electrification strategy research, which highlights an opportunity to electrify 95% of rail freight operations in the UK by the mid-2040s. The detailed map suggests that only 800 miles of additional electrification is needed to enable this."
Inland Rail approvals in NSW
"TWO Inland Rail projects approved by the New South Wales government have now been referred to the federal government. The Australian Rail Track Corporation said the NSW government approved the Narromine to Narrabri project and the North Star to the New South Wales/Queensland Border project."
NGE wins HSR construction contract in Egypt
"Works cover construction of 330 km of double track and over 100 turnouts between the cities of Ain Al Sokhna and Borg El Arab. NGE will be responsible for the construction of 330km of highspeed line in Egypt."
Systra wins signalling contract for Naples network
"Systra SWS and Systra Sotecni have been awarded a contract, as part of a consortium commissioned by Alstom, to renew the signalling systems on Naples rail network."
March 1, 2023
Alstom Delivers First Metropolis Train for São Paulo Lines 8 and 9
"Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, delivered the first 8900 series train to ViaMobilidade, the concessionaire that manages lines 8-Diamante and 9-Esmeralda of São Paulo, thus marking the beginning of a new journey in urban mobility in the greater São Paulo area."
Feb 28, 2023
Governor Hobbs Plans Major Investments to Build a Resilient, Innovative and Prosperous Arizona For Everyone
"$7.5 million in one-time funding to serve as a catalyst to partner with local entities in securing federal support and funding to restore interstate passenger rail service to Phoenix, which has not had interstate passenger rail service since 1996"
Feb 27, 2023
Alstom, Medha-Stadler consortium bids for $3.6bn Vande Bharat trains contract
"Scope of the contract will include the production and maintenance of 100 aluminium Vande Bharat trains for 35 years. The winning bidder will secure $1.57bn receive after the delivery of new rail vehicles."
MA: Outlook 2023: Region gets on board for passenger rail
"Bustling train platforms are a scene rail boosters and economic developers believe can happen more often if there is more rail service in the area. The platform at Greenfield's John W. Olver Transit Center is unusually busy on a recent Tuesday afternoon."
Feb 26, 2023
BNSF Railway earnings decline as traffic falls and costs rise
" BNSF Railway's pre-tax earnings declined 1.9% in 2022 due to a combination of lower volume and higher costs, the railroad's parent company, Berkshire Hathaway, reported on Saturday."
Feb 22, 2023
Amtrak is spending billions on new train cars. The Northeast Corridor should be 1st in line
"Amtrak is spending billions on new train cars. The Northeast Corridor should be 1st in line, some experts say. When Amtrak's sleek new Airo train cars roll off the assembly line in 2026, they're headed for the Cascades route in the Pacific Northwest."
Feb 21, 2023
Midlands Rail Hub would cut 29.3m miles travelled by car per year
"Midlands Rail Hub would cut 29.3m miles travelled by car per year. New research has shown that a rail enhancement project in Britain, the Midlands Rail Hub, would lead to 30 million more miles being travelled by passengers on the region's trains each year"
Feb 20, 2023
Madrid airport high speed rail link contract awarded
"Infrastructure manager ADIF has awarded a consortium of Lantania and ASCH Infraestructuras y Servicios a €21. 3m contract to undertake works for a 8. 8 km long 1 435 mm gauge line which will enable high speed trains to access Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport Terminal 4 from Chamartín."
Stadler will produce and deliver Norway’s new long-distance trains
"Stadler have been awarded a contract to produce and deliver 17 new long-distance trains for Norske tog AS in 2024. Norske Tog AS has announced that Stadler has been awarded a contract to produce 17 long-distance trains. The contract includes options, allowing up to 100 new trains to be acquired by Stadler"
Feb 17, 2023
EPA administrator tries to reassure residents during East Palestine visit
"The EPA's administrator, Michael Regan, walked along a creek that still reeks of chemicals and sought to reassure skeptical residents that the water was fit for drinking and the air safe to breathe around East Palestine, where just less than 5,000 people live near the Pennsylvania state line"
New underground ‘impediment’ discovered during SWLRT work
"MN: New underground 'impediment' discovered during SWLRT work. Contractors working in the Kenilworth corridor recently encountered what appears to be a large piece of concrete about three feet away from the foundation of the Cedar Isles Condominiums, which were built in the 1980s from repurposed grain silos."
SWR to trial QR code technology to enhance passenger experience
"UK train operator, South Western Railway (SWR), is set to trial a digital service on board a select number of trains in early 2023. Passengers will be able to scan QR codes located in prominent areas of their train such as seat backs, tables, accessible areas and toilet facilities"
Feb 13, 2023
CTA awards contract to renovate Racine Blue Line station with accessibility and tech improvements
"CTA awards contract to renovate Racine Blue Line station with accessibility and tech improvements. The station, originally constructed in 1958, is the ninth station to advance through CTA's All Stations Accessibility Program that aims to make 100 percent of the authority's rail stations fully accessible by 2038"
MARTA: Violent crime fell in 2022
"In 2022, MPD reported a 17 percent reduction in Part 1 crimes (violent and property crimes), and a 42 percent reduction in operator assaults. Enforcement of MARTA's Ride With Respect Program resulted in over 5,000 temporary or yearlong system suspensions for violators and over 70 permanent bans."
Feb 10, 2023
Seattle's streetcar dithering criticized in federal audit
"The U.S. Department of Transportation shouldn't let Seattle sit on $7.4 million in transit grants the city failed to spend on streetcar extensions along First Avenue and on Broadway, a new audit says."
South Africa’s Transnet to trim freight rail network by 35%
"South African state-owned logistics firm Transnet is set to reduce its freight rail network by around 35% as it deals with theft of cables utilised to run its electric trains and scarcity of locomotive parts, reported Bloomberg."
World’s longest underwater rail-road tunnel to connect Germany and Denmark
"The Fehmarn Belt fixed link (Danish: Femern Bælt-forbindelsen, German: Fehmarnbelt-Querung) or Fehmarn Belt tunnel is an under-construction immersed tunnel, which will connect the Danish island of Lolland with the German island of Fehmarn, crossing the 18-kilometre-wide (11 mi) Fehmarn Belt in the Baltic Sea."
Spain spends €258m to build trains too big for its tunnels
"Two Spanish transport executives have been fired after a train fiasco that saw the design of 31 trains that were too big for the tunnels on the line where they would run. Spain recently spent €258m (£228m) in designing 31 trains that will be delayed by several years due to a major design flaw"
Feb 9, 2023
RENFE to create French subsidiary
"Renfe have announced that its Board of Directors have agreed to submit to the Ministry of Finance and Public Function, through MITMA, the proposal to create a subsidiary in France. This new subsidiary will allow Renfe to sign contracts, issue invoices, hire staff, and offer market services (ticket sales) in France"
Feb 8, 2023
Line upgrade to boost rail freight capacity at Port of Antwerp
"The project will boost rail freight capacity in the north of the Port of Antwerp. BELGIAN infrastructure manager Infrabel has announced a project to electrify and track-double the 5km L11 rail freight line, which will double rail capacity and eliminate a bottleneck on a key route to the Port of Antwerp"
Israel Railways buys Rail Vision AI-based systems to boost train safety
"Israel Railways buys Rail Vision AI-based systems to boost train safety. Rail Vision's tech provides real-time visual and acoustic alerts for train's command-and-control centre to avoid collisions. The system has been designed to detect obstacles on the railway line."
Feb 6, 2023
Huge programme of signalling work continues between Feltham and Wokingham
"Huge programme of signalling work continues between Feltham and Wokingham. During February half term, a dual railway closure will see lines closed for nine days as Network Rail continue to bring the old signalling system up to modern standards."
£4.2 billion for operations, maintenance and renewals of rail infrastructure in Scotland
"RIA Scotland has welcomed the publication of the the High-Level Output Specification (HLOS) and Statement of Funds Available (SoFA) for Scotland's Railway infrastructure for Control Period 7 (CP7, April 2024 to March 2029)"
FS sign MoUs with Lufthansa and Ita to improve rail-air links
"FS sign MoUs with Lufthansa and Ita to improve rail-air links. The MoUs aim to provide a connectivity to passengers using FS rail connections to various Italian airports. Lufthansa offers its passengers more than 3,000 weekly rail as well as bus connections to its passengers"
Governments Explore New Rail Links between England and Wales
"The UK and Welsh governments are working together on a 2.7 million GBP study that will explore options for new rail stations and services on the South Wales Main Line."
Feb 2, 2023
Rolling stock climate test chamber opens
"FRANCE: A rolling stock climate testing chamber which can provide temperatures from -45°C to 70°C and humidity from 5% to 95% has been built at the Centre d'Essais Ferroviaires centre in Valenciennes."
Indian Railways funding boosted to record levels
"The government will increase funding for the national railway network to its highest ever level in 2023-24, in order to support further capital investment, according to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman"
Nexrail orders 50 locomotives
"NEXRAIL.lease is further expanding its leasing business in Western Europe with an order for 50 low-emission DE 18 Stage V locomotives from Vossloh Rolling Stock.
The bulk of the order consists of a batch of 40 locomotives with German homologation, to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2023."
Feb 1, 2023
Engels Locomotive Plant sold
"RUSSIA: The bankrupt Engels Locomotive Plant has been purchased by Inter Cargo Co for 2. 8bn roubles, below the auction's starting price of 3. 83bn roubles."
Jan 30, 2023
SEPTA said 'there really is no way forward' to build the Roosevelt Boulevard subway
"SEPTA said 'there really is no way forward' to build the Roosevelt Boulevard subway. Building a subway-elevated rail line down the median of Roosevelt Boulevard would cost at least $3 billion."
BART service restored between Oakland and S.F. after unexpected closure
"after unexpected closure. BART service across the Bay has been restored Friday morning after unscheduled track repairs in downtown Oakland shut down most service between San Francisco and Oakland, causing a "major delay system wide," the transit agency said.
Port of Long Beach unveils renewable energy, zero emissions initiatives
"The Port of Long Beach is known internationally as an industry leader in advancing cleaner cargo movement. In order to tackle greenhouse gases and criteria pollutants, the Port of Long Beach has set a goal of all zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment by 2030 and a zero-emissions drayage truck fleet by 2035."
First female train drivers begin work in Saudi Arabia
"34 female drivers are now working on the Haramain high-speed line in Saudi Arabia. SAUDI Arabia is celebrating the start of work by 34 female train drivers on the Haramain high-speed line between Mecca and Medina. More than 28,000 women applied for the roles when they were made public."
Jan 27, 2023
Government approves £48 million of funding for transformation of Peterborough’s Station Quarter
"Government approves £48 million of funding for transformation of Peterborough's Station Quarter. A total of £48 million is on its way to Peterborough, following a successful Levelling Up Fund bid for the first phase of regeneration of the area around Peterborough station – known as Station Quarter."
Jan 25, 2023
Cambodia to spend $4bn in Phnom Penh-Poipet rail overhaul
"The upgrade will help launch the first high-speed rail in the country. The high-speed rail line will have more than 300 overpasses along the route"
Jan 23, 2023
Underground suburban station in Santiago approved
"CHILE: On January 5 the government granted environmental approval for construction of a 3. 2 km double-track tunnel and underground station to be built to serve Santiago's Central-Alameda complex as part of the Alameda – Melipilla suburban rail scheme."
Varamis launches fully-electric freight train for logistics services in UK
"Varamis launches fully-electric freight train for logistics services in UK. Intended to run between Scotland and the Midlands, the new service will focus on next day delivery of consumer goods. The new fully electric service will serve as an environmentally friendly alternative to road haulage."
Tripling EU HSR network would need EUR 550 billion
Jan 21, 2023
Pittsburgh light-rail service temporarily shut down following fire beneath rail bridge
"Pittsburgh Regional Transit shut down parts of its light rail service for about an hour Tuesday as a small fire started on the ground underneath Pittsburgh's Panhandle Bridge."
Jan 20, 2023
Metra hauls in competitive Federal grants
"In 2022, Metra received $247.8 million in federal formula funds. The Chicago area's congressional delegation delivered for Metra in 2022, helping secure $204.1 million in competitive federal grants for Metra projects, according to the agency's news release."
BNSF announces $US 3.96bn 2023 capital plan
"The plan allocates $US 2.85bn to maintaining its core network and related assets. BNSF plans to spend $2.85bn replacing and upgrading rail and track infrastructure, such as ballast and sleepers, and maintaining rolling stock"
Northern gives international delegation a first glimpse of technology made famous by NASA ‘in service’
"More than 60 national and international rail industry professionals have been treated to a sneak preview of some of the new technology Northern has been pioneering as part of its Intelligent Trains programme"
RB Rail launches tender for CCS subsystem
"RB Rail has announced the design and build tender for the Rail Baltica control-command and signalling subsystem (CCS) implementation. The public procurement procedure is carried out in two stages with negotiations, and the contract is expected to be signed in mid-2024."
Jan 19, 2023
Amtrak petitions FRA to retire fixed wayside signals in Maryland
"Amtrak is seeking Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) approval to retire fixed wayside signals as automatic block points on the Mid-Atlantic Division's Philadelphia-to-Washington line (a Northeast Corridor branch), according to a notice in the Federal Register's Jan. 17 edition."
Georgia DOT wraps up first CRISI-funded project
"The Georgia Department of Transportation completed its first Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grant project this month, which included upgrades along 138 miles of the Heart of Georgia (HOG) Railroad from Vidalia to Preston."
High-speed rail to downtown S.F. is back on track -- but the price tag keeps going up
"That new effort includes a new price tag for the long-promised expansion — $6.7 billion, up from $5 billion in 2016. This is the estimated cost to bring commuter trains and a route for high-speed rail service from Mission Bay to First and Mission streets by 2033."
Limerick – Foynes railway reopening contract awarded
"Irish Rail has awarded John Sisk & Son a £57M contract for the first phase of works to reinstate the Limerick to Foynes rail line for freight service."
Northern unveils Intelligent Train for in-service infrastructure monitoring
"An 'Intelligent Train' concept demonstrator has been developed by Northern in partnership with Network Rail to facilitate detailed real-time infrastructure monitoring using trains in regular passenger service."
Jan 18, 2023
The EU's post-Brexit Entry-Exit System (EES) has been delayed once again
"The EU's post-Brexit Entry-Exit System (EES) has been delayed once again. This means non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area will be spared the anticipated chaos of the new border controls a little longer. Originally slated to launch in 2022, the EES was at first rescheduled for May 2023"
RENFE starts tests before relaunching cross-border high speed services to France
"Spain's rail operator Renfe has begun testing two new cross-border high-speed rail routes to France that could begin carrying passengers by summer. Renfe tested through AVE train service from Madrid Atocha to Marseille on Tuesday, and from Barcelona Sants to Lyon on Monday."
USDCF to Develop California Biofuels Terminal
"USD Clean Fuels LLC (USDCF) announced its intention to build a new biofuels terminal in National City, California, that will have the capability to transload renewable diesel, biodiesel, ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)"
Jan 17, 2023
Nurminen Logistics to buy Operail’s Finnish rail freight operations
"Estonian state-run logistics company Operail has agreed to offload its Finnish freight transport services to Nurminen Logistics for €27.7m. A purchase and sale contract has been signed in this regard. Operail commenced freight services in Finland at the end of 2020."
Fox Group has begun its expansion into rail with the opening of its railhead in Leyland.
"Fox Group has begun its expansion into rail with the opening of its railhead in Leyland. An article on Insider Media Limited says the railhead sidings, which were initially built in 1953, were relayed in 2018 and utilised by Network Rail for storage during the Blackpool electrification scheme.
The takeover and opening of the railhead by Fox Group has been in the works for more than two years, with the teams working closely with Lancashire County Council to get the railhead back to its intended purposes.
"
Northern looking to recruit up to 280 drivers and conductors in 2023
"Train operator, Northern, has announced plans to recruit as many as 280 drivers and conductors across the North of England in 2023."
Jan 16, 2023
RDC Germany buys class 101 locomotives from DB
"The locomotives will haul overnight and car transporter trains. A DB 101 locomotive hauling an express train in October 2022. RDC Germany has bought two class 101 electric locomotives from German Rail (DB) and has agreed options to buy three more."
Rail Cargo Group launches Serbian subsidiary
"Subsidiary will handle transit traffic from Turkey. AUSTRIAN Federal Railways (ÖBB) subsidiary Rail Cargo Group (RCG) has established a new subsidiary, Rail Cargo Carrier-Southeast, which is registered as a freight operator in Serbia."
Stadler wins DB Netz ETCS contract
"Stadler and DB Netz AG signed a contract for retrofitting up to 80 maintenance and track service vehicles with the Stadler ETCS train control system GUARDIA (European Train Control System). The GUARDIA system will be used for the first time on a large scale in the maintenance sector at Deutsche Bahn"
CPK moves from planning to the design phase
"Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) moves from the planning phase to the design phase and summarizes 10 key 2022 achievements. In the past year, binding decisions have been made that have a direct impact on the shape of the airport, its capacity, its integration with the railways and its phased construction."
Jan 15, 2023
GERMAN infrastructure manager DB Networks has launched a tender for up to six rail milling machines
"The contract includes a firm order for one machine, with the framework agreement to run until the end of 2023. The machine must be suitable for operation on class D2 track, with a maximum speed of at least 120km/h when moving between milling operations."
Jan 13, 2023
ADCO to build new train station in Queensland, Australia
"ADCO Constructions has secured a contract to design and construct the new Pimpama train station on the Gold Coast Line in Queensland, Australia. The station is the first of three planned stations on the Gold Coast through Cross River Rail."
Rome signs framework agreement for 30 Hitachi metro trains
"ROME city council has signed a €264m framework agreement with Hitachi Rail for the supply of 30 trains for metro lines A and B. The contract, signed on December 29, includes a firm order for 14 trains, including 12 for Line B and two for Line A"
Belo Horizonte Metro concession awarded
"THE governments of Brazil and the state of Minas Gerais have awarded the Comporte Participações consortium a 30-year concession to operate and maintain the Belo Horizonte Metro, which will see the route pass to the private sector from state-owned commuter rail operator Brazilian Urban Trains Company (CBTU)."
Tunnelling starts on Metro Manila Subway
"The initial start of construction was in October 2022 following a groundbreaking ceremony led by Philippines president, Mr Ferdinand Marcos, in Pasig City. At the same time the awarding of contracts for stages of the project was announced."
Jan 12, 2023
DB introducing new display system to make travel more convenient for passengers
"Deutsche Bahn (DB) are introducing real-time capacity utilisation displays to help passengers on their journeys. The display system, which will gradually go live over the next few months, will pass information on capacity directly to passengers on the platform, on the vehicle and via app."
RATP shuffles rubber-tyred rolling stock as part of Line 6 upgrade
Alstom to supply 10 trains for Santo Domingo Metro
"French rolling stock manufacturer Alstom has received a contract for the delivery of Metropolis trains to the Santo Domingo Metro in the Dominican Republic. Under the contract, Alstom will be responsible for the manufacture, supply and placement into service of ten new Metropolis trains with three cars each."
Thales wins new signalling maintenance contract in Spain
"France-based Thales has received a contract for the delivery of technology for the Seville – Malaga – Granada high-speed train line in Spain. The contract, which is valued at around €11.6m, has an execution period time of over 17 months."
Moscow plans to modernise all tram depots
"Moscow Metro has confirmed that reconstruction of the Russian capital's five tramway depots, and the addition of a brand-new facility, will be complete by 2040."
Jan 11, 2023
Canadian government announces funding for Huron Central improvements
"The Member of Provincial Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, Ross Romano, announced additional funding of up to $10.5 million from the Government of Ontario. Combined with contributions from Huron Central Railway Inc., the total investment in the project is $31.5 million."
Construction starts on Line 1 of Abidjan Metro
"Amended contract to build and operate 37km route now worth €1.77bn. CONSTRUCTION of the first metro line in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast, is now underway following the signing of an amendment to the contract to design, build, operate and maintain the 37km route"
Istanbul opens metro Line 8
"The 14.3km driverless route connects lines 4 and 5. ISTANBUL's metro network has grown by 14.3km with the opening of Line 8 on the eastern side of the Bosphorus on January 6."
Jan 10, 2023
San Francisco Opens New Subway
"San Francisco recently opened its first new subway in over 40 years, with three new underground stations and one above-ground station joining the Muni Metro T Third line."
Phase 2 of the BerdiBa Project Has Started
"The project, co-funded by the European Union, aims to design and evaluate an innovative digital rail system, including an autonomous train. The pilot project started at the beginning of 2022, and we will step up research from 2023. The end of phase 2 is expected in July 2024"
Freight traffic sets new records in Kazakhstan
"Traffic with China up 14% year on year. KAZAKHSTAN Railways (KTZ) reports that freight traffic on its network set a new record of over 252 billion tonne-km in 2022, up 5.2% on the year before"
GB Railfreight announce locomotive leasing deal with Akiem
"GBRf have agreed a 10-year locomotive leasing deal with Akiem which will see £25 million invested to increase the number of locomotives across GBRf’s operations."
DB opens an expanded facility in Berlin
"The DB Board Member for Long Distance Passenger Transport, Michael Peterson, and the Mayor of Berlin Franziska Giffey inaugurated the extended Rummelsburg ICE facility following a EUR 200 million investment."
Jan 9, 2023
Kampala - Malaba upgrade to be completed in February
"Contractor China Road and Bridge reports work 95% complete. WORK to upgrade the 1000mm-gauge route from the Ugandan capital Kampala to Malaba on the border with Kenya is due to finish next month, according to contractor China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC)."
Supreme Rail pushes for more independence from Korail
"The move comes after a merger between Korail and SR was shelved. KOREAN high-speed operator Supreme Rail (SR) has revealed that it will push for further independence and review existing contracts with its majority shareholder, Korea's national operator Korail."
Jan 8, 2023
"CSX gets Pan Am work off the ground. CSX plans to spend more than $100 million over the next three years to improve Pan Am's main lines and yards. The deal adds Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and, via haulage rights, Saint John, New Brunswick, to the CSX network while expanding its reach in New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut."
Jan 6, 2023
"California cap-and-trade registration backlog more than doubles in Q4 amid longer wait times"
Jan 5, 2023
"Legislators favor paring down MBTA to subway
In a new report, the Legislature's Joint Committee on Transportation recommended a structural change that would leave the MBTA in charge only of subway and bus operations, stripping it of Commuter Rail, ferry and construction responsibilities"
"For 2022, Overall North American Rail Volume Down
North American rail volume for the first 50 weeks of 2022 was 33,849,073 carloads and intermodal units, down 1.8 percent compared with 2021"
"Two Chicago rail stations recognized for architecture.
Garfield Station on the Green Line received the BLT Built Design award in the bridges and public architecture category, CTA officials said in a press release. This is the second award the temporary Bryn Mawr Station received in 2022."
Jan 4, 2023
"Union Pacific continues to embargo traffic in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
The embargo will take effect Thursday, December 29, 2022, and is expected to be needed for an estimate of 14 days. Union Pacific will be monitoring the inventory levels in this region and will lift the embargo sooner if possible. Permits will be issued as needed to protect critical supply chains"
"New train station in Coatesville just years away. With an expected completion date set for fall 2025, work is underway for a new $65 million train station project in the city. The job includes design, station and streetscape construction, Amtrak support, and Amtrak track work at Fleetwood Street, just east of the existing historic station building."
"Deutsche Bahn (DB) has reached its target volume for biofuel two years ahead of target. The German state rail operator has announced that it's using double the amount of biofuel in its diesel locomotives than it had predicted for this time – 17 million litres of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)"
Jan 3, 2023
"METRO: A Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority train struck and critically injured a bicyclist in Long Beach on Saturday morning, briefly interrupting rail service while emergency crews aided the injured man, authorities said."
"More than $405 million in transit related projects included in FY23 congressionally directed spending. The FY23 Omnibus Package signed by President Biden at the end of December includes designated funding for more than 140 transit, passenger rail and TOD projects."
"FRANCE: The last of the four metre-gauge electric multiple-units supplied by Stadler to re-equip the Tramway du Mont-Blanc mountain railway entered service on December 21"
"Brightline: With the intercity route's expansion to Orlando and then Tampa, Brightline’s senior vice president of corporate development, Christine Kefauver, recently told various news outlets that the higher-speed train will reach speeds up to 125 mph between West Palm Beach and Orlando, and up to 150 mph between Orlando and Tampa."