Amtrak reducing train frequency due to spread of COVID-19 Omicron variant

Amtrak is joining some other passenger carriers and transit agencies in reducing service because of the spike in the COVID-19 Omicron variant.

FRA

Supreme Court blocks Biden administration’s COVID-19 vaccination and testing mandate

While this is not a typical RT&S story, we want to ensure that our readers are aware of the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court to block the Biden administration’s mandate that large employers (i.e., those employing more than 100 people) must require their employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Bells & Whistles—Canada toughens up on track inspections

The top news stories of the week.

Amtrak

Amtrak announces Bill Flynn to retire, Stephen Gardner will become president and CEO

Amtrak will soon have a new CEO.

Nothing until 2023? Amtrak says new construction efforts will take some time

Those hoping to see rail projects bustling in 2022 as a result from the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill need to set their sights on 2023.

Amtrak, MTA join forces on mega rail infrastructure deal

Now that the deal has been signed, the dealings begin.

Bells & Whistles—Dispute with town could force LIRR to build temp bridge

The top news stories RT&S was following this week.

Amtrak OIG says agency may be missing chances to broadly communicate potential risks on Pacific Surfliner route

Amtrak met regulatory obligations in response to bluff failures along its Pacific Surfliner route, but it could improve its awareness of potential operational risks by participating in ongoing discussions with regional stakeholders, an Amtrak Office of Inspector General report released Wednesday found.

Finally! Hudson Tunnel Project receives green light for construction

Now all that is left is the money.

Amtrak CEO confirms which two rail projects are a priority with new funding

Waiting for a huge increase in allowance, you can’t blame Amtrak for making a wish list.

Initial take on historic infrastructure bill: President Biden loosened grip on climate and dollars will not flow for months

The House of Representatives passed a historic $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill late in the night on Nov. 5.

Homeland Security chief announces plans to implement new rail and rail transit cybersecurity directive

Cybersecurity continues to be a major threat to the integrity and stability of our nation’s railroad network, and the Department of Homeland Security is planning for the future.

Bells & Whistles—Calif. lawmaker goes to Transportation Secretary to reject coal rail project

RT&S Editor-in-Chief Bill Wilson covers the top news stories of the week.

Metra starts work to rebuild Grayland Station, replace bridge over Milwaukee Ave.

Metra is working on a key rebuilding and replacement project on the railroad.

Investigators looking at switch, rail as possible causes of deadly Amtrak derailment

A full 24 hours after a derailment of an Amtrak train that killed three passengers near Joplin, Mont., theories were spreading on the cause of the accident.

Eye-popping milestone is achieved at Merchants Bridge site

It takes a milestone whenever you are dealing with the mighty Mississippi River, and the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis and contractor Walsh Construction hit one over the weekend.

BNSF says a second track will be built in Edmonds, Wash., but details are lacking

BNSF is now confirming it will build a second line of tracks in Edmonds, Wash., in 2023.

Gateway projects

Threats by N.Y. Gov. Cuomo still putting worry into Gateway Project deadline

With backing from the White House and the Transportation Secretary, one would think the Gateway Project is finally ready for takeoff. However, there is another source delaying the countdown.

Amtrak

Amtrak employees allegedly accepted gifts, and are under investigation

Two Amtrak employees have allegedly accepted gifts from a construction contractor.

House passes infrastructure bill and shows love for rail construction and development

The House created some timely celebratory fireworks right before the July 4 weekend by passing a $760 billion transportation and water bill on July 1.

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