BLET News
UP nearing purchase of battery-electrics for yard tests, CEO says
(Source: Trains Magazine, January 6, 2022) PHOENIX, Ariz. — Union Pacific is nearing agreements to purchase battery-electric locomotives for tests in yard use, CEO Lance Fritz says, with plans to try the locomotives in one cold-weather location and one warm-weather site. Full story: Trains Magazine Tuesday, January 11, 2022
Read MoreMontana Rail Link to end operations, with BNSF taking over
(Source: Billings Gazette, January 10, 2022) BILLINGS, Mont. — BNSF Railway announced plans Monday to take over Montana Rail Link and its 900 miles of track in Montana and Idaho. BNSF has committed to retain all union and non-union employees of MRL in their current jobs with similar pay, benefits, seniority, and other terms of…
Read MoreRRB names new Director of Retirement and Survivor Benefits
(Source: Railroad Retirement Board press release, January 4, 2022) CHICAGO — The U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) has selected Letitia C. Carthans as the agency’s next Director of Retirement and Survivor Benefits, effective January 3, 2022. She will replace Valerie Allen, who is retiring after more than 31 years of RRB service. In her new position,…
Read MoreOfficials say recent STB decision on Utah rail project “pours gasoline” on climate emergency
(Source: Railway Track & Structures, January 5, 2022) NEW YORK — The Surface Transportation Board recently approved a new rail line in Utah, and officials can’t say enough against it. Full story: Railway Track & Structures Thursday, January 6, 2022
Read MoreFor 2021, intermodal “record” collapses in second half
(Source: Railway Age, January 5, 2021) NEW YORK — In 2021, U.S. intermodal’s “record-setting” first half gave way to a lower second half as supply chain challenges persisted, reported the Association of American Railroads on Jan. 5; December volumes continued the downward trend, coming in 8.2% lower than the prior-year period, according to AAR figures.…
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