China unveils 375 mph maglev train
China has unveiled a maglev train capable of a top speed of 375 mph (600 kph). The maximum speed would make the train the fastest ground vehicle globally. Using electro-magnetic force, the maglev train “levitates” above the track with no contact between body and rail. At 600 kph, it would only take 2.5 hours to travel from Beijing to Shanghai by train – a journey of more than 620 mi (1,000 km). By comparison, the journey would take 3 hours by plane and 5.5 hours by high-speed rail. [reuters.com]
LRT testing starts on Edmonton’s Valley Line Southeast
LRT trains are finally rolling on Edmonton’s 11-stop Valley Line Southeast, as the delayed city transit project reaches the testing and commissioning phase. TransEd confirms that two Bombardier light rail vehicles are to undergo up to 14 days of safety system testing at the Strathearn LRT stop on 95th Avenue. Future riders can expect a 30-minute commute between Mill Woods and downtown. The 13 km (8 mi) route has been under construction since the spring of 2016. The $1.8 billion project is now scheduled to open by the end of the year, at least one year later than had been anticipated. [cbc.ca]
Brightline Orlando to Tampa expansion gets key approval
The Central Florida Expressway Authority Board has cleared the way for Brightline to study a high-speed rail alignment between Tampa and Orlando International Airport (MCO). The new 17-mile-long path would connect the Brightline station to the I-4 corridor. Brightline is still working with the Florida Department of Transportation for the corridor’s final leg that would connect Orlando and Tampa. The expansion project connecting Miami to Orlando is expected to reach completion in late 2022. [wesh.com]
Western Maryland Scenic adds Amtrak’s last dome car
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad has added Amtrak’s last dome car to its roster. The Ocean View, built in 1955 and retired by Amtrak in 2019, debuted earlier this month on the Western Maryland Scenic between Cumberland and Frostburg, Maryland. The Super Dome, now in railroad’s red and white “circus” colors, was originally part of a six-car order built by Budd to serve as lounges for sleeping-car passengers aboard the Empire Builder. The Ocean View car is believed to be the first dome car to regularly operate over the Western Maryland Railroad. [trains.com]
