FRA report cites Amtrak on-time performance delays
A new Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) report finds that Amtrak on-time performance (OTP) delays increased 37% during the fourth-quarter 2021. The FRA report found that Amtrak trains experienced more than 1.2 million minutes of delay during the quarter ending in September. The Cardinal, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle were delayed most. The report relies on metrics and standards defined by the so-called ‘final rule’ which requires Amtrak and the host railroads to certify Amtrak schedules, and sets an OTP minimum standard of 80% for any two consecutive calendar quarters. [railwayage.com]
Amtrak moves to restart service to Vancouver Canada
Almost two years after halting the service because of covid, the passenger service has begun preparations to restore Cascades operations to Canada from Seattle. Amtrak informed social media followers that they might see Cascades trains running between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, as crews make requalification runs. Amtrak has been operating buses between Seattle and Vancouver since late 2021, but the rail shutdown has been in place since March 2020. With the those restrictions easing, restoration of rail service is now a viable option. [vancouver-journal.com]
Brightline completes Orlando airport access extension
Brightline has completed its first major construction zone (Zone 2) on its 170-mile extension from West Palm Beach to Orlando International Airport (OIA). One of four zones, Zone 2 is a 3.5-mile-long section on Brightline’s corridor into OIA and represents one of the most complex and challenging areas for construction in the entire project. Brightline’s Zone 2 is an engineered double track that travels under and over the heart of OIA. Beginning in 2023, Brightline trains will travel through the airport corridor before heading east towards Cocoa. [rtands.com]
Ontario regional LRT being named for former local mayor
The Ontario government has announced the new LRT line that will service Mississauga and Brampton will be named after former Mississauga mayor Hazel McCallion. The renamed Hurontario LRT line will commemorate her achievements and contributions. McCallion served as Mississauga’s mayor for 36 years from 1978 to 2014. The 18 km (11 km) LRT line is part of Ontario’s transit plan to connect more people with transit including GO Transit’s Milton and Lakeshore West linesy. [globalnews.ca]
