FRA launches website for states, municipalities to request bridge inspection reports

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has launched a new tool on its website that allows states and municipalities to request inspection reports for rail bridges in their communities.

USDOT accepting applications for new $800M FASTLANE grants

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is soliciting applications for a new grant program authorized by the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act.

BNSF to focus on rail, ties and ballast in New Mexico

BNSF revealed more details about its planned 2016 capital expenditure program in New Mexico. The railroad said the $100-million plan is focused on projects that help ensure BNSF continues to operate a safe and reliable network and reflects the success BNSF has had in adding capacity in prior years to support customer demand.

KCS improves capacity of cross border bridge

Kansas City Southern identified the International Rail Bridge at Laredo/Nuevo Laredo as an opportunity to improve operational efficiency and a candidate for the Business Process Improvement (BPI) Program in 2015.

The success of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge rehab project

All parties involved in the recent reconstruction of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge agree that a focus on scheduling and coordination helped the project finish on time and on budget with no major injuries reported.

HNTB adds rail leadership to N.C., New York and New Jersey offices

HNTB Corporation’s promoted nine in its New York and New Jersey offices and added a new hire in its North Carolina office.

CN 2016 capital plan shows slight increase over 2015


Canadian National‘s 2016 capital plan includes an investment of approximately CA$2.9 billion (US$2.07 billion) in rail infrastructure and equipment to raise network efficiency, support long-term growth and further strengthen safety. The railroad is the only North American Class 1 to increased its spend over 2015, which for CN was CA$2.8 billion (US$2.06 billion.)

UP Board approves $3.75 billion 2016 capital plan

The Union Pacific Board of Directors approved the company’s 2016 capital plan of approximately $3.75 billion, down about $550 million versus 2015. The plan includes $375 million to further implement Positive Train Control.

Connecticut bond commission approves funds for Metro-North yard

Connecticut has allocated $17.5 million in state funding for the design, engineering and construction of a new rail yard on the Metro-North Railroad Danbury Branch Line in Norwalk. The funding comes under Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy “Let’s Go CT!” initiative, which is making investments to upgrade and modernize the state’s transportation system.

Norfolk Southern 2016 capex reflects strategic focus toward streamlined railroad

Norfolk Southern has a planned capital improvement budget of $2.1 billion in 2016, which is $300 million less than its record $2.4 billion capital plan in 2015.

BNSF plans $4.3 billion 2016 capital plan

BNSF Railway released plans for a $4.3 billion 2016 capital expenditure program focuses on helping to ensure the company continues to operate a safe and reliable network this year and beyond.

KCS 2016 capital program reflects 10 percent reduction over 2015

Kansas City Southern estimates its 2016 capital program will be between $580-590 million, which represents an approximate 10 percent decline from its $649 million program in 2015.

Union Pacific estimates $3.75B capital program in 2016

Union Pacific is planning for a $3.75 billion capital program in 2016, pending approval from its board the railroad said in an earning release.

CSX targets $2.4 billion capex in 2016

CSX is aiming for a $2.4 billion capital expenditure program in 2016, which reflects a $100 million reduction over 2015 numbers.

Morsches named CEO of TranSystems

Richard Morsches, PE, has been promoted to chief executive officer of TranSystems Corp. He brings to this role more than 30 years of experience and progressive leadership from serving clients locally in the Chicago area, to managing offices throughout the region, to leading the firm’s strategy and sales efforts nationally.

KCS plans rail, bridge projects in Louisiana


Kansas City Southern (KCS) will invest approximately $15 million in 2016 on rail and bridge improvement projects on its Beaumont Subdivision between DeQuincy and DeRidder, La. These projects will help grow capacity, as well as maintain and enhance safety on KCS’ cross-border network.

RTD nears completion of 64th Avenue grade separation

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) of Denver is nearing completion of its 64th Avenue Bridge between Pecos Street and Federal Boulevard. The bridge replaces a portion of the existing 64th Avenue roadway and an at-grade railroad crossing with a grade-separated crossing.

CTC allocates more than $96 million for California rail projects

The California Transportation Commission (CTC) has adopted 27 projects, valued at nearly $154 million, that it says will support needed upkeep on California’s aging roads and bridges, alleviate traffic delays and encourage use of alternative forms of transportation, including biking, walking and transit. CTC has allocated more than $96 million for rail projects alone.

NYCT completes review of AC lines; identifies improvement areas

Metropolitan Transportation Authority New York City Transit (MTA-NYCT) has completed a full, end-to-end review of the A and C Lines, the fourth such comprehensive study joining previous reviews of the F, L and G Lines.

RTD begins construction on twin bridge for North Metro line

The Regional Transportation District of Denver’s (RTD) North Metro Rail Line will have a total of nine bridges along its 18.5-mile route with construction currently underway on the 104th Avenue Bridge. Crews have mobilized to start the six-month long construction process.

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