Ethiopian delegation tours RTD to research transit solutions

At the request of the U.S. Department of State, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) in Denver, Colo., hosted a high-level Ethiopian delegation on August 20 to research transit solutions to improve the availability, quality and efficient delivery of transportation services to the disabled in their nation.

“We are pleased to respond to this request from the state department’s International Visitor Leadership Program,” stated Phil Washington, RTD general manager. “It is humbling to be recognized both in America and internationally for our light-rail system and how we continue to pursue ways to improve transportation delivery to disabled community members.”

Delegation members represent the Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC), the Addis Ababa Road and Transport Bureau and the National Association of Physical Handicap. ERC officials have expressed interest in ensuring that the light-rail transport now under construction, the first in Sub-Saharan Africa, will be a state-of-the-art facility and meet internationally accepted disability standards.

 

Vossloh plans production plant for fastening systems

Vossloh AG is stepping up its presence in North America and opening a production plant for its rail fastening systems in the U.S. The fitting out of the facility will start in the third quarter of 2013, with plant commissioning followed by regular production scheduled to begin after mid-2014. There will be 50 new jobs at the plant in Waco, Texas.

Rick Corman, 1955-2013

Richard J. “Rick” Corman, founder of R. J. Corman Railroad Group, died the morning of August 23, 2013, following a 12-year battle with multiple myeloma. Corman died at his home in Nicholasville, Ky., surrounded by his family. He was 58.