Phoenix Valley Metro avoids strike
Phoenix’s Valley Metro said a potential work stoppage has been averted and light-rail service will run as normal on New Year’s Eve.
KCS’ Starling outlines infrastructure plans in state of the railroad
David L. Starling, Kansas City Southern’s president and CEO, outlined the state of the railroad in a letter dated Dec. 21 and posted to the KCS website. Starling says the railroad’s 125th anniversary year has been a success; something he aims to continue into 2013.
NRC names 2013 Hall of Fame inductee
The National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) named James J. (Jim) Daloisio, Chairman and CEO, Railroad Construction Company of South Jersey as its 2013 Hall of Fame Inductee.
STB approves GWI’s control of RailAmerica railroads
The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has approved Genesee & Wyoming Inc.’s application to control RailAmerica, Inc., and the RailAmerica railroads, effective December 28, 2012.
Sound Transit Board approves 2013 budget
In Seattle, Wash., the Sound Transit Board approved a $1.1 billion 2013 budget that moves light-rail expansions forward, while positioning the regional transit system to carry more than 28 million riders next year.
Construction begins on Massachusetts South Action commuter station
In Massachusetts, ground broke on a new South Acton Commuter Rail Station, a project that will improve, expand and revitalize the busiest station on the Fitchburg Line.
Ottawa approves Confederation Line, construction to begin in spring 2013
In Ottawa, ON, Canada, the Confederation light-rail transit line was approved by the city council in a unanimous vote.
New York MTA submits balanced budget, Lhota resigns
The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Board has approved the agency’s 2013 budget and four-year financial plan.
Two Ohio grade crossings to see upgrades
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) approved authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission to upgrade two grade crossings in Wellston and Cincinnati.
CSX appoints operations, technology leaders to new roles
CSX has made executive position changes, which will take effect Jan. 1, 2013.
Minnesota Metropolitan Council awards engineering contracts for Southwest LRT
The Southwest Light Rail Transit line in Minnesota took a major step forward to opening in 2018 when the Metropolitan Council authorized preliminary engineering contracts with Kimley-Horn and AECOM.
USDOT signs $1.55 billion FFA for Honolulu transit system
U.S. Department of Transportation signed an agreement to provide $1.55 billion to the city and county of Honolulu on the island of Oahu to build Hawaii’s first-ever rail transit system.
FRA issues ROD for the Chicago-St. Louis HSR
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued two Records of Decisions (ROD) for the Chicago-St. Louis high-speed rail corridor.
WisDOT awards funds to revive freight service
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is contributing more than $17 million toward a rail restoration project in Sheboygan County.
CTA approves 2013 Budget
The Chicago Transit Board unanimously approved the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) 2013 budget of $1.39 billion, a spending plan that maintains current service levels, freezes base fares and continues investment to modernize and repair infrastructure.
Metro Gold Line Bridge completed
Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority completed the Gold Line Bridge, the 584-linear foot sculpture that will serve as the Gateway to the San Gabriel Valley.
MetroPlan Orlando approves maglev project
In Orlando, Fla., American Maglev Technology (AMT) has proposed to build, operate and maintain a privately financed fully automatic train system powered by magnetic levitation.
Local officials urge CN to allow Metra expanded service on Heritage Corridor
U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski (D-IL) was joined by more than 20 local officials in urging Canadian National to allow Chicago-area’s commuter railroad Metra to expand service on the Heritage Corridor Line and accommodate at least two additional trains a day.
LAX officials unveil possible light-rail station sites
Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) staff says it has a strong commitment and desire for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) to locate a light-rail station directly at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Houston Metro CEO stepping down at end of month
Houston Metro President and CEO George Greanias plans to resign from his post on December 31, 2012.