Maryland Transit Authority evaluating remote sensors for CWR

Protran Technology and QinetiQ North America have partnered to provide the Maryland Transit Authority (MTA) with the first real-time network of remote sensors installed on continuous welded rail (CWR) for testing and evaluation.

WMATA studying ways to fight fatigue

On Thursday, Dec. 6, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Board Safety and Security Committee will receive an update on fatigue research, including a key finding that recommends a methodical, comprehensive approach to the issue rather than solely considering the number of hours an employee works.

Washington, Ohio to improve crossings

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing Norfolk Southern (NS) and CSX to install modernized lights and gates with upgraded warning device circuitry at the interconnect of NS grade crossing (481-472X) and CSX grade crossing (518-247P) at Lincoln Avenue in the city of Columbus, Franklin County.

Siemens to acquire Invensys Rail

Siemens has entered into an agreement to acquire Invensys Rail, the rail automation business of Invensys for approximately €2.2 billion (US$2.9 billion).

AREMA to sponsor design competition

The American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) will sponsor a design competition for students of architecture or building sciences as a means to introduce students to the professional opportunities in the railway and rail transit industry.

Metro-North’s Port Jervis signalization project begins

A new signal system is being installed on the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority Metro-North Railroad’s Port Jervis Line that will increase safety and more efficiently control train speed.

FRA launches effort to end electronic device distraction in rail industry

Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo joined senior railroad industry leaders and labor officials to launch a collaborative effort to educate and raise awareness among rail industry employees of the dangers of using electronic devices on the job.

AAR: Railroads committed to PTC implementation, despite challenges

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) today reinforced the railroad industry’s commitment to implementing PTC but recognized significant challenges remain to doing so.

NTSB praises Metrolink’s Commitment to Safety

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recognized Southern California’s Metrolink as a national leader in the Positive Train Control (PTC) effort.

Ohio to upgrade crossings in two counties

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) approved construction authorization at two grade crossings in Lucas and Mercer counties.

Pennsylvania state grants to help 24 freight rail projects

The Pennsylviania State Transportation Commission has approved nearly 18.6 million for 24 freight rail projects, which will improve rail access, upgrade rail infrastructure and provide repairs.

Watco names two to maintenance and compliance teams

Watco Compliance Service appointed Christian Meeker to performance assurance engineer, nondestructive testing and welding processes. Meeker will be responsible for coaching, mentoring and pro¬viding leadership to Watco team members with respect to nondestructive testing and welding processes to ensure compliance with federal regulations, industry standards and Watco’s customer requirements.

Tough road to normalcy, longer road to recovery

Nearly a week after Hurricane Sandy slapped the Northeast, transportation providers are still scrambling to repair infrastructure and restore service.

SEPTA credits effort of work crews in Hurricane Sandy recovery

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority crews worked around the clock to fix damage caused by Hurricane Sandy, which moved through the Philadelphia, Pa., area on Monday, Oct. 29 and Tuesday, Oct. 30.

ACE begins construction of San Gabriel Trench project

Construction of a $336-million, concrete-walled railroad trench reaching 30 feet deep, 65 feet wide and 1.4 miles long through the city of San Gabriel, Calif., began on Nov. 1.

Rail contractors at the ready to aid with Northeast cleanup

The recovery effort from Hurricane Sandy will be a monumental affair that will last weeks, if not months.

PUCO approves upgrade of rail crossing in Summit County

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing Norfolk Southern to install mast-mounted flashing lights and roadway gates in Summit County.

Most East Coast passenger and freight rail service returning to normal

Outside of the New York Metropolitan area, passenger and freight rail service is returning to normal operation with residual delays.

New York area still days away from regular passenger rail service

Water is the biggest hurdle the New York area is facing in its fight to restore commuter and subway service. While bus service has been restored, it will likely be days before New York Metropolitan Transit Authority subway and commuter trains and NJ Transit service resumes.

Sandy leaves freight, passenger rail service stunned

Freight and passenger rail providers across the Northeast scrambled Tuesday morning to assess damage left by Hurricane Sandy and restore service where possible.

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