USA: Orlando’s SunRail Eyes Record Ridership and Future Expansions
As SunRail marks its fifth year of service, annual ridership has exceeded 1M passengers and the Central Florida rail operator plans expansion to Orlando International Airport and the addition of weekend service. [mynews13.com]
USA: Railroad has a transport solution for New England’s underserved metro regions
The privately-funded Boston Surface Railroad Company (BSRC) believes it can bring passenger rail to underserved areas while making money. The railroad hopes to begin service between Woonsocket and Worcester in late 2020. [masstransitmag.com]
Europe: The Netherlands to get new train stations as passenger numbers soar
Dutch rail network operator ProRail plans to invest €3.5bn ($3.9 bn USD) over the next decade adding and expanding stations to cope with the expected 30% to 40% growth in passengers. [dutchnews.nl]
USA: Massachusetts to fund South Coast rail service extension
The state will pick up the estimated $1 billion tab for the first phase of extending commuter rail service from Boston to New Bedford and Fall River — with service projected to begin by late 2023. [bostonglobe.com]
USA: Last-Ditch Pitch to Save Indiana’s Amtrak Hoosier State Train
The four-days-a-week Indianapolis-to-Chicago line will end operations on July 1 unless state lawmakers restore $3 million in annual funding that was cut from the upcoming biennium state budget. [publicnewsservice.org]
UK: Virgin Trains calls for airline-style fares and seating for all
Virgin Trains (UK) has called for a new national rail ticketing system with airline-style fares and reserved seats on long-distance trains, ending current practice that can involve standing for extended periods. [theguardian.com]
Asia: Trains celebrating new Japan era provide entertainment for travelers
Railway operators across Japan are offering a myriad of package deals celebrating the new Reiwa era that begins when abdicating Emperor Akihito’s elder son, Naruhito, ascends to the throne on May 1. [kyodonews.net]
