VIA Canada runs test train of new Siemens equipment
A trainset of VIA Rail Canada’s new Siemens-built equipment has made a test circuit of corridor stations in Ontario. The Charger locomotive and Venture cars were tested for track geometry and passenger loading and unloading. A unique “emergency rescue test” was also conducted. In all, the test journey totaled almost 1600 km (1000 mi). VIA Rail will continue acceptance testing under all weather conditions before it can formally accept the equipment for service. A total of 32 trainsets, with a total cost of more than $989 million CAD ($784 million USD), are expected to be delivered by 2024. [trains.com]
SoCal’s Metrolink first in US to run on renewable fuel
Southern California’s Metrolink has become the first U.S. passenger-rail agency to rely entirely on renewable fuel. The agency began running all of its locomotives on cleaner burning alternatives in February in pursuit of zero-emissions technologies. A pilot program, launched in early 2021, aims to end use of all petroleum fossil fuels. That program will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions 80%, agency officials said. [progressiverailroading.com]
Amtrak moves to seize control of DC’s Union Station
Amtrak is using eminent domain to try to seize control of Washington D.C.’s Union Station. Amtrak hopes to take over operations and management of the train hall in pursuit of a multibillion-dollar investment program, including concourse expansion and major repairs to a station tunnel. The station is owned by the federal government, but it is leased to and operated by other entities. In a new complaint filed in the D.C. District Court, Amtrak seeks control of the property interest owned by Union Station Investco LLC, which has subleasing rights to the station through 2084. [washingtonpost.com]
Study to focus on proposed NC Triangle commuter rail
GoTriangle is leading a feasibility study of a proposed commuter rail to connect parts of North Carolina’s Triangle area. The study will consider whether to use existing tracks, build new tracks, or develop some combination of the two. The system could also be expanded to Mebane and Selma. The transit system is negotiating with the owners of existing tracks – Norfolk Southern and Amtrak – to operate up to 20 round-trips each day. The feasibility study should be finished by May, and area leaders could approve the proposal by August. [wral.com]
