1072 - ILLINOIS TERMINAL
1073 - PENN CENTRAL
1074 - LACKAWANNA
Friday, June 29, 2012
Last 3 NS heritage locomotives - photos
Here are photos of the last three NS locomotives painted in various heritage paint schemes. Also see our postings on Wednesday, June 27, 2012, Saturday, June 23, 2012, Tuesday, April 24, 2012, Wednesday, April 4, 2012, and Thursday, May 24, 2012 for more photos.
CSX Launches Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Microsite
Received the following via email.
CSX Launches Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Microsite
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 25, 2012 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today unveiled its 2011 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report outlining the company's operations, environmental, social and financial performance.
"Our CSR Report reflects a holistic view of who we are as a company," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "CSX is achieving milestones in environmental stewardship and community and employee engagement, while at the same time driving commercial, financial and operational success. Measurement of these efforts and transparent reporting benefits shareholders, customers, employees and communities alike."
CSX's report notes the company's role as a major economic contributor and employer, infusing capital and community investment and creating jobs. CSX hired approximately 4,000 employees in 2011, nearly one quarter of which were military veterans. The company plans to hire more than 3,000 people in 2012 and expects many of those will also be military veterans.
The CSR report also underlines CSX's achievements related to its environmental and community initiatives. CSX reduced its greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 8 percent over 2006 levels in 2010 and is now committed to an additional 6 to 8 percent intensity reduction by 2020. The company also surpassed the 17,000 tree mark in its Trees for Tracks campaign, which aims to plant a tree for every mile in its 21,000-mile network.
The report provides an overview of CSX's business as well, including the markets the company serves and its focus on customer service. Lastly, the report highlights CSX's financial successes in 2011 including a record-low operating ratio of 70.9 percent and capital investment of more than $2.2 billion in network maintenance and improvements. The company plans to invest $2.25 billion in 2012.
"We're proud of our performance in 2011, but remain committed to the relentless pursuit of excellence -- as a business partner to our customers, a transparent community member, environmental steward, and value creator for shareholders," Ward said. "Our goals for 2012 are more ambitious and our expectations of ourselves are ever higher."
New for the 2011 report is the online hub, http://www.csxcsr.com/, which allows readers to customize the report with relevant content and email the personalized report directly from the site. Readers can also share the report's many infographics, which visually illustrate much of the key content.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
Lauren Rueger
1 (877) TELL-CSX
CSX Launches Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Microsite
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 25, 2012 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today unveiled its 2011 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report outlining the company's operations, environmental, social and financial performance.
"Our CSR Report reflects a holistic view of who we are as a company," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "CSX is achieving milestones in environmental stewardship and community and employee engagement, while at the same time driving commercial, financial and operational success. Measurement of these efforts and transparent reporting benefits shareholders, customers, employees and communities alike."
CSX's report notes the company's role as a major economic contributor and employer, infusing capital and community investment and creating jobs. CSX hired approximately 4,000 employees in 2011, nearly one quarter of which were military veterans. The company plans to hire more than 3,000 people in 2012 and expects many of those will also be military veterans.
The CSR report also underlines CSX's achievements related to its environmental and community initiatives. CSX reduced its greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 8 percent over 2006 levels in 2010 and is now committed to an additional 6 to 8 percent intensity reduction by 2020. The company also surpassed the 17,000 tree mark in its Trees for Tracks campaign, which aims to plant a tree for every mile in its 21,000-mile network.
The report provides an overview of CSX's business as well, including the markets the company serves and its focus on customer service. Lastly, the report highlights CSX's financial successes in 2011 including a record-low operating ratio of 70.9 percent and capital investment of more than $2.2 billion in network maintenance and improvements. The company plans to invest $2.25 billion in 2012.
"We're proud of our performance in 2011, but remain committed to the relentless pursuit of excellence -- as a business partner to our customers, a transparent community member, environmental steward, and value creator for shareholders," Ward said. "Our goals for 2012 are more ambitious and our expectations of ourselves are ever higher."
New for the 2011 report is the online hub, http://www.csxcsr.com/, which allows readers to customize the report with relevant content and email the personalized report directly from the site. Readers can also share the report's many infographics, which visually illustrate much of the key content.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
Lauren Rueger
1 (877) TELL-CSX
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
More NS heritage locomotives - photos
Here are two photos of NS locomotive #1071 painted in a Jersey Central Lines heritage paint scheme. The Central Railroad of New Jersey (CNJ) was known as "The Big Little Railroad," and that is the origin of our store name.
Note: to see any photo on this blog at full size, simply click on the photo. Then use your browser's BACK button to return to the blog.
Note: to see any photo on this blog at full size, simply click on the photo. Then use your browser's BACK button to return to the blog.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
NMRA Garden State Division Summer Meet
Received the following announcement via email.
The events at the site include a private tour of the Museum and an underground tour of the mine just for GSD members and guests. This two hour tour will be followed by a lunch in an outdoor pavilion provided by the GSD.
After lunch, seven layouts in the area will be available for visits. GSD members are also welcome to spend more time visiting the Museum Store and photographing the extensive collection of hard rock mining equipment that is on display outdoors on the grounds.
In addition to zinc and iron, the rock in this mountain is home to an amazing array of florescent minerals – some that are found nowhere else in the world.
Cost; (Lunch inclusive) Adult: $9; Senior: $8; Under 12: $7.
We will need to know how many tour guides are needed, if you’re planning on attending please e-mail us on how many tickets you will need.
NMRA Garden State Division
Summer Meet
Saturday, August 18, 2012
at 10:00 AM
Truly Something Special
The Sterling Hill Mine Museum
30 Plant Street, Ogdensburg, NJ
The Sterling Hill Mine Museum is the site of the largest Zinc Mine in New Jersey. The Mine closed in 1986 and has been preserved as a museum.
For Museum details
=============================================================
The events at the site include a private tour of the Museum and an underground tour of the mine just for GSD members and guests. This two hour tour will be followed by a lunch in an outdoor pavilion provided by the GSD.
After lunch, seven layouts in the area will be available for visits. GSD members are also welcome to spend more time visiting the Museum Store and photographing the extensive collection of hard rock mining equipment that is on display outdoors on the grounds.
In addition to zinc and iron, the rock in this mountain is home to an amazing array of florescent minerals – some that are found nowhere else in the world.
Cost; (Lunch inclusive) Adult: $9; Senior: $8; Under 12: $7.
We will need to know how many tour guides are needed, if you’re planning on attending please e-mail us on how many tickets you will need.
for all the details of this exciting event.
=============================================================
Please Note:
We MUST have a head count to arrange for tour guides.
E-mail us back if you are going to attend this meet with number of tickets needed.
===============================================
The Garden State Division, NMRA
Saturday, June 23, 2012
More NS heritage locomotives - photos
Here are more photos of NS locomotives painted in various heritage paint schemes. Also see our postings on Tuesday, April 24, 2012, Wednesday, April 4, 2012, and Thursday, May 24, 2012 for more photos.
1068 - ERIE
1069 - VIRGINIAN
8025 - MONONGAHELA
1070 - WABASH
Friday, June 22, 2012
PRR Es on the Port Road...
(Train sightings on 6-16-12.)
One of my favorite locations to do railroad photography has been the ex-PRR Port Road Line that runs from Perryville (MD) to Harrisburg (PA). It is a line that is very scenic and presents the photographer with challenges due to being rather inaccessible, tree-lined with not much traffic during the daylight hours. In other words, locating a suitable photo location and have a train included within the scene can prove to be rather difficult. On Saturday, the Conrail Historical Society ran a excursion called the "Susquehanna Limited" that featured two 1950s vintage "E8" diesels, a AMTRAK diesel and a consist of sixteen Amtrak passenger cars. So the question to be answered was where to photograph this train? My friend Jeff answered that by meeting me at a small park in Washington Boro, about three miles south of Columbia. The location was very scenic along with capturing some of the aspects of the Port Road. There was the Susquehanna River in the background and poles that supported the power lines for this electrified line for the E44s and GG1s which once traveled this line. This was where I would wait for the special! It wasn't long before other spectators started showing up here. License plates showing NJ, MD, DE and VA provided evidence as to how far some of them had traveled to see this train! It would be a little around 11 AM that a headlight appeared in the distance. Ahhh.... it wouldn't be long now I thought. Another few minutes and the Susquehanna Limited passed by my vantage point and what a sight it was to see. I also breathed a sigh of relief as my one fear of a Turkey Hill tractor trailer passing by my location and intruding into the scene never materialized!
One of my favorite locations to do railroad photography has been the ex-PRR Port Road Line that runs from Perryville (MD) to Harrisburg (PA). It is a line that is very scenic and presents the photographer with challenges due to being rather inaccessible, tree-lined with not much traffic during the daylight hours. In other words, locating a suitable photo location and have a train included within the scene can prove to be rather difficult. On Saturday, the Conrail Historical Society ran a excursion called the "Susquehanna Limited" that featured two 1950s vintage "E8" diesels, a AMTRAK diesel and a consist of sixteen Amtrak passenger cars. So the question to be answered was where to photograph this train? My friend Jeff answered that by meeting me at a small park in Washington Boro, about three miles south of Columbia. The location was very scenic along with capturing some of the aspects of the Port Road. There was the Susquehanna River in the background and poles that supported the power lines for this electrified line for the E44s and GG1s which once traveled this line. This was where I would wait for the special! It wasn't long before other spectators started showing up here. License plates showing NJ, MD, DE and VA provided evidence as to how far some of them had traveled to see this train! It would be a little around 11 AM that a headlight appeared in the distance. Ahhh.... it wouldn't be long now I thought. Another few minutes and the Susquehanna Limited passed by my vantage point and what a sight it was to see. I also breathed a sigh of relief as my one fear of a Turkey Hill tractor trailer passing by my location and intruding into the scene never materialized!
CSX Announces Earnings Release and 2nd-Quarter Earnings Call
Received the following via email.
CSX Corporation Announces Earnings Release and Second-Quarter Earnings Call
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 19, 2012 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) will release second-quarter financial and operating results on Tuesday, July 17, 2012, after the market close.
The company will host an earnings conference call at 8:30 am Eastern Time on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 via teleconference and a live audio webcast.
Those interested in participating via teleconference may dial 1-888-327-6279 (1-888-EARN-CSX) and ask for the CSX earnings call. Callers outside the U.S. dial 1-773-756-0199. Participants should dial in 10 minutes prior to the call.
Presentation materials and access to the audio webcast will be available on the company's website at http://investors.csx.com/. Following the earnings call, a webcast replay and a MP3 audio file will be archived on the company's website.
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812
Lauren Rueger, Corporate Communications
877-835-5279
CSX Corporation Announces Earnings Release and Second-Quarter Earnings Call
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 19, 2012 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) will release second-quarter financial and operating results on Tuesday, July 17, 2012, after the market close.
The company will host an earnings conference call at 8:30 am Eastern Time on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 via teleconference and a live audio webcast.
Those interested in participating via teleconference may dial 1-888-327-6279 (1-888-EARN-CSX) and ask for the CSX earnings call. Callers outside the U.S. dial 1-773-756-0199. Participants should dial in 10 minutes prior to the call.
Presentation materials and access to the audio webcast will be available on the company's website at http://investors.csx.com/. Following the earnings call, a webcast replay and a MP3 audio file will be archived on the company's website.
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
David Baggs, Investor Relations
904-359-4812
Lauren Rueger, Corporate Communications
877-835-5279
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Schedule announced for NS Heritage Locomotive family portrait
Received the following via email.
June 12, 2012
Schedule announced for Norfolk Southern Heritage Locomotive family portrait
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern and the North Carolina Transportation Museum have announced the daily schedule for the display of the Norfolk Southern Heritage Locomotive fleet at the museum in Spencer, N.C., on July 3 and 4.
The schedule below applies to both days. A map of the museum will be available on site each day of the event.
Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children in advance, and $30 for adults and $20 for children the day of the event. Children 2 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased at the NCTM’s website or by calling 704-636-2889, ext. 237. Norfolk Southern employees and retirees are eligible for a $5 discount, with a limit of four tickets per purchase. Some restrictions may apply. Retirees must purchase tickets by phone to get the discount.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
###
Media Contacts:
Norfolk Southern
Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
North Carolina Transportation Museum
Mark Brown, 704-636-2889 ext. 240 (mark.brown@ncdcr.gov)
June 12, 2012
Schedule announced for Norfolk Southern Heritage Locomotive family portrait
- 8 a.m. - Gates open
- 8:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. - Heritage Power Parade in the area south of the roundhouse. This is a photo event featuring each heritage unit separately and side-by-side with historic locomotives from predecessor railroads.
- 11 a.m. - Welcome, announcements, and safety briefing in the turntable area. Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman will speak on July 3 only.
- 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. - Conrail locomotive family around the turntable. Up-close visiting time for Southern and Norfolk & Western family units.
- 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. - Norfolk & Western family around the turntable. Up-close visiting time for Conrail and Southern family units.
- 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. - Southern family around the turntable. Up-close visiting time for Norfolk & Western and Conrail family units.
- 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. - All 20 units around the turntable with NS locomotive 1030 (signifying NS’ 30th anniversary) on display.
- 9 p.m. - 11 p.m. - Night photo session. Schedule to be determined.
Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
Mark Brown, 704-636-2889 ext. 240 (mark.brown@ncdcr.gov)
Had a Blast at work today
Received the following via email from Kermit Geary, Jr. Text and pictures are his.
We sure had a blast at work today testing the Inland Electric Rwy at Gulliver, MI. Now run by Caremuse Limestone (formerly USS Michigan Limestone), this facility runs 8 months a year, 24 hours a day and carries over 5 million tons of Limestone from the quarry to the pier where it is loaded into lake boats for shipment all over the lake system. Power is 4 ex-C&IM SD-20’s (ex IC, nee Southern SD-24’s). The blast was when all operations ceased while they exposed a new rock face! Next stop will be the Caremuse operation in Cedarville, MI.
We sure had a blast at work today testing the Inland Electric Rwy at Gulliver, MI. Now run by Caremuse Limestone (formerly USS Michigan Limestone), this facility runs 8 months a year, 24 hours a day and carries over 5 million tons of Limestone from the quarry to the pier where it is loaded into lake boats for shipment all over the lake system. Power is 4 ex-C&IM SD-20’s (ex IC, nee Southern SD-24’s). The blast was when all operations ceased while they exposed a new rock face! Next stop will be the Caremuse operation in Cedarville, MI.
B&LE combine finds new home
Received an email about the preservation of a Bessemer & Lake Erie (B&LE) combine with the following link to Railway Preservation News.
http://www.rypn.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=33414
http://www.rypn.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=33414
Friday, June 15, 2012
TriState Equipment 2012 Father's Day - Sunday, June 17th Caboose Excursion Trains - Whippany, NJ
Received the following via email.
The cars are cleaned and ready to go. Bring Father and the rest of the family and friends and come out for a train ride!!!
Sunday, June 17th - Father's Day, our Tri-State cabooses will again be used in the excursion trains at the Whippany Railway Museum.
http://www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net/index.php/eventstickets/excursion-train
L&NE 580 usually brings up the markers. Raritan River 10 and DL&W 896 next in line.
Find out more about our equipment from our web page: http://www.tristaterail.org/
DL&W 896: http://www.tristaterail.org/dlwcaboose896.html
L&NE 580: http://www.tristaterail.org/lnecaboose580.html
RRRR 10: http://www.tristaterail.org/rrcaboose10.html
Equipment Committee Chairman, Don Oberding and his 'crew' have been making great progress with the restoration and maintenance of these cars. The most recent activities have seen washing and Exterior painting has started on #10. The old kerosene burning stove has been removed from from #10. This has really opened up the car. Don has acquired a period coal burning store to take its place. Check out recent photos below. Better yet, come see the spiffed up cars in person.
Tickets can be purchased on-line. Any unsold tickets may be purchased on-site. Bring your family and friends, help contribute to the museum and share the experience of the ride!
Here's the schedule for train rides at the museum:
http://www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net/index.php/eventstickets/excursion-train
Sunday, June 17 (Father's Day)
Sunday, July 8
Sunday, July 15
Sunday, Sept. 9 (Grandparent's Day)
Sunday, Sept. 16
Sunday, October 7 (12th Annual Pumpkin Festival)
http://www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net/index.php/eventstickets/pumpkin-festival
The cars are cleaned and ready to go. Bring Father and the rest of the family and friends and come out for a train ride!!!
Sunday, June 17th - Father's Day, our Tri-State cabooses will again be used in the excursion trains at the Whippany Railway Museum.
http://www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net/index.php/eventstickets/excursion-train
L&NE 580 usually brings up the markers. Raritan River 10 and DL&W 896 next in line.
Find out more about our equipment from our web page: http://www.tristaterail.org/
DL&W 896: http://www.tristaterail.org/dlwcaboose896.html
L&NE 580: http://www.tristaterail.org/lnecaboose580.html
RRRR 10: http://www.tristaterail.org/rrcaboose10.html
Equipment Committee Chairman, Don Oberding and his 'crew' have been making great progress with the restoration and maintenance of these cars. The most recent activities have seen washing and Exterior painting has started on #10. The old kerosene burning stove has been removed from from #10. This has really opened up the car. Don has acquired a period coal burning store to take its place. Check out recent photos below. Better yet, come see the spiffed up cars in person.
Tickets can be purchased on-line. Any unsold tickets may be purchased on-site. Bring your family and friends, help contribute to the museum and share the experience of the ride!
Here's the schedule for train rides at the museum:
http://www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net/index.php/eventstickets/excursion-train
Sunday, June 17 (Father's Day)
Sunday, July 8
Sunday, July 15
Sunday, Sept. 9 (Grandparent's Day)
Sunday, Sept. 16
Sunday, October 7 (12th Annual Pumpkin Festival)
http://www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net/index.php/eventstickets/pumpkin-festival
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
NS heritage unit LEHIGH VALLEY gets a nose job
Norfolk Southern has repainted the nose of their LEHIGH VALLEY heritage unit. Before and after pictures below. White stripes added, logo changed, and flags on the side of the nose changed.
Before
After
Enlighten me...
(Train sightings on 6-10-12. Puns intended.)
...as to watt is wrong with this scene. CSX's Q300 is seen making its way east over the Trenton Line in Belle mead on Sunday morning around 9:30. It has just passed beneath the new Route 206 overpass with its consist of mixed freight behind two SD50s CSX 8516 and CSX 8518. So can you determine what is amiss in this scene? Let me shine some light on the answer by saying if you notice neither the ditch lights nor the headlights are on! The headlights were on when it passed through the Skillman (NJ) grade crossing but might have blown out by the time it reached Belle Mead.
It is not likely that all 4 lights would burn out at the same time. And the engineer would not deliberately turn them all off. That would be a violation of FRA rules, and he could be suspended. I suspect an electrical malfunction. I wonder if they held this train in Manville Yard until they could fix the problem or switch locos.
...as to watt is wrong with this scene. CSX's Q300 is seen making its way east over the Trenton Line in Belle mead on Sunday morning around 9:30. It has just passed beneath the new Route 206 overpass with its consist of mixed freight behind two SD50s CSX 8516 and CSX 8518. So can you determine what is amiss in this scene? Let me shine some light on the answer by saying if you notice neither the ditch lights nor the headlights are on! The headlights were on when it passed through the Skillman (NJ) grade crossing but might have blown out by the time it reached Belle Mead.
It is not likely that all 4 lights would burn out at the same time. And the engineer would not deliberately turn them all off. That would be a violation of FRA rules, and he could be suspended. I suspect an electrical malfunction. I wonder if they held this train in Manville Yard until they could fix the problem or switch locos.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
PRR twins
Received the following photo via email. It originated from Bennett Levin with the title "All is well with the world!".
Maybe not quite twins, but certainly siblings.
Maybe not quite twins, but certainly siblings.
New Jersey Transit's ALP-45DP enter revenue service
Here is an excerpt and a photo from an article found on the Railway Age web site.
New Jersey Transit’s newest locomotive made its first revenue service run May 30. The ALP-45DP (dual-power), described by NJT as a “hybrid” locomotive in that it operates under AC-catenary electric or diesel-electric power, is the first of its type in North America.
Locomotive No. 4506, pulling Train No. 1006, arrived at Montclair State University Station in Little Falls, N.J., on the Montclair-Boonton Line, under diesel power, raised its pantograph to make contact with the catenary, shut off its diesel engines, and left the station for Hoboken Terminal under electric power. The new ALP-45DP “conserves fuel, reduces emissions, and increases operating flexibility,” NJT said.
Changing between diesel and electric modes is simple and does not interrupt head-end power. To change from diesel to electric, the operator engages the Pantograph Up switch. To change from electric to diesel, the operator engages the Fault Reset button. In either case, changeover takes approximately 100 seconds, and there is automated voice acknowledgement. No electrical modifications were required for NJT’s existing cab control cars or trailer coaches, so, in effect, the ALP-45DP is a “plug and play” locomotive.
For the full article and additional pictures please visit:
http://www.railwayage.com/index.php/passenger/commuter-regional/njts-alp-45dp-enters-revenue-service.html?channel=50,57,55,56,59,54,41,48,61,35,5,44,246,63,62,40,60,94,46
New Jersey Transit’s newest locomotive made its first revenue service run May 30. The ALP-45DP (dual-power), described by NJT as a “hybrid” locomotive in that it operates under AC-catenary electric or diesel-electric power, is the first of its type in North America.
Locomotive No. 4506, pulling Train No. 1006, arrived at Montclair State University Station in Little Falls, N.J., on the Montclair-Boonton Line, under diesel power, raised its pantograph to make contact with the catenary, shut off its diesel engines, and left the station for Hoboken Terminal under electric power. The new ALP-45DP “conserves fuel, reduces emissions, and increases operating flexibility,” NJT said.
Changing between diesel and electric modes is simple and does not interrupt head-end power. To change from diesel to electric, the operator engages the Pantograph Up switch. To change from electric to diesel, the operator engages the Fault Reset button. In either case, changeover takes approximately 100 seconds, and there is automated voice acknowledgement. No electrical modifications were required for NJT’s existing cab control cars or trailer coaches, so, in effect, the ALP-45DP is a “plug and play” locomotive.
For the full article and additional pictures please visit:
http://www.railwayage.com/index.php/passenger/commuter-regional/njts-alp-45dp-enters-revenue-service.html?channel=50,57,55,56,59,54,41,48,61,35,5,44,246,63,62,40,60,94,46
Monday, June 11, 2012
Hampton Roads shared services project identifies ways to reduce costs
Received the following via email.
June 6, 2012
Hampton Roads shared services project identifies ways to reduce costs
NORFOLK, Va. - The three largest cities in South Hampton Roads have come together with the region’s Fortune 500 companies to find ways to make government more efficient for its citizens, providing the best services for their tax dollars. Working with the chief executives of Amerigroup, Dollar Tree, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Norfolk Southern Corporation, and Smithfield Foods, the cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach have identified 13 areas in which to combine their resources to reduce costs.
The Hampton Roads Partnership organized the pilot Hampton Roads Shared Services Project (SSP) with Management Partners, a consulting firm that specializes in helping local government leaders.
The services recommended have the potential to save the cities more than a combined $15 million annually. The identified areas include emergency communications, public safety training, elevator inspections, permit applications, sign shops, heavy equipment sharing, employee health benefits, purchasing, information technology, human services and detention facilities.
"Amerigroup is pleased take part in the Shared Services Project," said James G. Carlson, chairman and chief executive officer for Amerigroup Corporation. "It's great to see local leaders teaming up with some of the best business minds in Hampton Roads to find ways to make services more effective and affordable for residents across the area. I am encouraged by the preliminary recommendations."
The steering committee includes E. Dana Dickens, III, president and CEO of Hampton Roads Partnership; William Harrell, former Chesapeake City Manager; Amar Dwarkanath, current Chesapeake Interim City Manager; Rick West, Chesapeake City Council; Marcus Jones, Norfolk City Manager; Barclay Winn, Norfolk City Council; Jim Spore, Virginia Beach City Manager; Glenn Davis, Virginia Beach City Council; James Fothergill, chief people officer of Dollar Tree; Jeff Gough, Smithfield Foods vice president for Logistics, Human Resources and Safety; Bill Bell, vice president of human resources and administration for Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries; and Tina Gill, Amerigroup vice president for External Relations Operations. Jim Hixon, Norfolk Southern executive vice president-Law and Corporate Relations, serves as chair of the steering committee.
“With multiple adjacent cities in the Hampton Roads area, there are opportunities for cities to share services and avoid the costs of providing those services separately,” said Wick Moorman, CEO of Norfolk Southern and chair of the SSP. “The ability of business leaders in the region to work successfully with government leaders offers a particular opportunity to take advantage of shared services and reduce the cost of local government.”
The cost of this pilot project is $150,000, shared equally among the participating cities and five Fortune 500 companies. The Steering Committee will continue to come together to further analyze the key public services to be shared, and the best courses for implementation.
“Not only has this project established a basis for future sharing and improvement of services for citizens, it has showcased the best of Hampton Roads regionalism as these cities and companies have worked together to achieve a common goal,” said Dana Dickens, President and CEO of Hampton Roads Partnership.
The pilot program included Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach, however, there may be opportunity for other Hampton Roads localities to explore the feasibilities of sharing services in the future.
Find more information, visit http://hrp.org/Site/sharedservices.
The Hampton Roads Partnership is a public-private nonprofit organization formed in 1996 and represents ten cities, six counties and one town in Southeastern Virginia, equaling nearly 1.7 million citizens. Comprised of the chief elected officials of all seventeen communities as well as community leaders from the private business sector, education, military, and labor from both south Hampton Roads and the Virginia Peninsula, the Partnership is the only organization in Hampton Roads that focuses on the region's strategic issues for enhancing its competitiveness in today’s global economy with resulting income and job growth for its citizens. Led by the Hampton Roads Partnership and the Planning District Commission, the first region-wide comprehensive economic development strategy, Vision Hampton Roads, created a roadmap of strategies and actions – to engage citizens and embrace ongoing region-wide economic development practices.
http://hrp.org/
http://visionhamptonroads.com/
Management Partners, founded in 1994 by president and CEO Jerry Newfarmer, provides clients with the expertise of professionals with extensive experience in all aspects of local government management and the full range of city and county services. Staff includes former city managers, analysts, department directors and other public service professionals with experience in a variety of program areas. Newfarmer is a national leader in local government performance management, having led his firm to nationally recognized expertise in municipal development review processes, strategic planning, budgeting and finance, and organizational analysis.
http://managementpartners.com/
# # #
SSI Media Contacts:
Blair Barbieri, Shared Services Communications Contact, (757) 382-6216 (bbarbieri@cityofchesapeake.net)
Jerry Newfarmer, Management Partners, (513) 861-5400 (JNewfarmer@ManagementPartners.com)
Mark Cox, City of Chesapeake, (757) 382-6241 (MCox@CityOfChesapeake.net)
Bob Batcher, City of Norfolk, (757) 664-4338 (Bob.Batcher@Norfolk.gov)
Mary Hancock, City of Virginia Beach, (757) 385-4436 (MHancock@VBgov.com)
Maureen C. McDonnell, Amerigroup Corporation, (757) 473-2731 (mmcdonn@amerigroupcorp.com)
Tim Reid, Dollar Tree Stores, (757) 321-5284 (TRied@DollarTree.com)
Gerri Dickseski, Huntington Ingalls Industries, (757) 380-3552 (Gerri.Dickseski@hii-co.com)
Robin Chapman, Norfolk Southern Corporation, (757) 629-2713 (Robin.Chapman@NScorp.com)
Keira Lombardo, Smithfield Foods, (757) 365-3050 (KeiraLombardo@SmithfieldFoods.com)
June 6, 2012
Hampton Roads shared services project identifies ways to reduce costs
NORFOLK, Va. - The three largest cities in South Hampton Roads have come together with the region’s Fortune 500 companies to find ways to make government more efficient for its citizens, providing the best services for their tax dollars. Working with the chief executives of Amerigroup, Dollar Tree, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Norfolk Southern Corporation, and Smithfield Foods, the cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach have identified 13 areas in which to combine their resources to reduce costs.
The Hampton Roads Partnership organized the pilot Hampton Roads Shared Services Project (SSP) with Management Partners, a consulting firm that specializes in helping local government leaders.
The services recommended have the potential to save the cities more than a combined $15 million annually. The identified areas include emergency communications, public safety training, elevator inspections, permit applications, sign shops, heavy equipment sharing, employee health benefits, purchasing, information technology, human services and detention facilities.
"Amerigroup is pleased take part in the Shared Services Project," said James G. Carlson, chairman and chief executive officer for Amerigroup Corporation. "It's great to see local leaders teaming up with some of the best business minds in Hampton Roads to find ways to make services more effective and affordable for residents across the area. I am encouraged by the preliminary recommendations."
The steering committee includes E. Dana Dickens, III, president and CEO of Hampton Roads Partnership; William Harrell, former Chesapeake City Manager; Amar Dwarkanath, current Chesapeake Interim City Manager; Rick West, Chesapeake City Council; Marcus Jones, Norfolk City Manager; Barclay Winn, Norfolk City Council; Jim Spore, Virginia Beach City Manager; Glenn Davis, Virginia Beach City Council; James Fothergill, chief people officer of Dollar Tree; Jeff Gough, Smithfield Foods vice president for Logistics, Human Resources and Safety; Bill Bell, vice president of human resources and administration for Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries; and Tina Gill, Amerigroup vice president for External Relations Operations. Jim Hixon, Norfolk Southern executive vice president-Law and Corporate Relations, serves as chair of the steering committee.
“With multiple adjacent cities in the Hampton Roads area, there are opportunities for cities to share services and avoid the costs of providing those services separately,” said Wick Moorman, CEO of Norfolk Southern and chair of the SSP. “The ability of business leaders in the region to work successfully with government leaders offers a particular opportunity to take advantage of shared services and reduce the cost of local government.”
The cost of this pilot project is $150,000, shared equally among the participating cities and five Fortune 500 companies. The Steering Committee will continue to come together to further analyze the key public services to be shared, and the best courses for implementation.
“Not only has this project established a basis for future sharing and improvement of services for citizens, it has showcased the best of Hampton Roads regionalism as these cities and companies have worked together to achieve a common goal,” said Dana Dickens, President and CEO of Hampton Roads Partnership.
The pilot program included Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach, however, there may be opportunity for other Hampton Roads localities to explore the feasibilities of sharing services in the future.
Find more information, visit http://hrp.org/Site/sharedservices.
The Hampton Roads Partnership is a public-private nonprofit organization formed in 1996 and represents ten cities, six counties and one town in Southeastern Virginia, equaling nearly 1.7 million citizens. Comprised of the chief elected officials of all seventeen communities as well as community leaders from the private business sector, education, military, and labor from both south Hampton Roads and the Virginia Peninsula, the Partnership is the only organization in Hampton Roads that focuses on the region's strategic issues for enhancing its competitiveness in today’s global economy with resulting income and job growth for its citizens. Led by the Hampton Roads Partnership and the Planning District Commission, the first region-wide comprehensive economic development strategy, Vision Hampton Roads, created a roadmap of strategies and actions – to engage citizens and embrace ongoing region-wide economic development practices.
http://hrp.org/
http://visionhamptonroads.com/
Management Partners, founded in 1994 by president and CEO Jerry Newfarmer, provides clients with the expertise of professionals with extensive experience in all aspects of local government management and the full range of city and county services. Staff includes former city managers, analysts, department directors and other public service professionals with experience in a variety of program areas. Newfarmer is a national leader in local government performance management, having led his firm to nationally recognized expertise in municipal development review processes, strategic planning, budgeting and finance, and organizational analysis.
http://managementpartners.com/
# # #
SSI Media Contacts:
Blair Barbieri, Shared Services Communications Contact, (757) 382-6216 (bbarbieri@cityofchesapeake.net)
Jerry Newfarmer, Management Partners, (513) 861-5400 (JNewfarmer@ManagementPartners.com)
Mark Cox, City of Chesapeake, (757) 382-6241 (MCox@CityOfChesapeake.net)
Bob Batcher, City of Norfolk, (757) 664-4338 (Bob.Batcher@Norfolk.gov)
Mary Hancock, City of Virginia Beach, (757) 385-4436 (MHancock@VBgov.com)
Maureen C. McDonnell, Amerigroup Corporation, (757) 473-2731 (mmcdonn@amerigroupcorp.com)
Tim Reid, Dollar Tree Stores, (757) 321-5284 (TRied@DollarTree.com)
Gerri Dickseski, Huntington Ingalls Industries, (757) 380-3552 (Gerri.Dickseski@hii-co.com)
Robin Chapman, Norfolk Southern Corporation, (757) 629-2713 (Robin.Chapman@NScorp.com)
Keira Lombardo, Smithfield Foods, (757) 365-3050 (KeiraLombardo@SmithfieldFoods.com)
NS rings The Closing Bell to commemorate 30 years
Received the following via email.
June 5, 2012
Norfolk Southern rings The Closing Bell® to commemorate 30 years
NEW YORK, N.Y. – Norfolk Southern rang The Closing Bell® on the New York Stock Exchange today in recognition of the 30th anniversary of the listing of the corporation’s securities.
Accompanied by NS employees and officers, CEO Wick Moorman rang the bell at 4 p.m. to signal the official end of the trading day. The bell-ringing tradition traces its history to the 1870s, and today participation is considered a high honor in American business.
“The bell ceremony calls attention to more than just 30 years,” Moorman said. “It brings to mind the heritage of our predecessor railroads that began in the 1820s, and it encourages us all – investors, railroaders, and customers – to look forward to the best days of our industries and our country.”
Representing Norfolk Southern’s 30,000 employees as Moorman rang the bell at the podium (technically, he pushed a button that rang several bells) were Meri Wilson, electrician in the mechanical department at St. Louis; Isaac James Irby, trackman in the engineering department at Island Ave., Pa.; Monk Wilkerson, engineer in the transportation department at Danville, Ky; Deborah Butler, EVP planning and chief information officer; Jim Hixon, EVP law and corporate relations; John Rathbone, EVP administration; Don Seale, EVP and chief marketing officer; Jim Squires, EVP finance and chief financial officer; and Marta Stewart, VP and treasurer.
Norfolk Southern stock first began trading on June 2, 1982, under the symbol “NSC,” one day after the effective date of the consolidation of Southern Railway and Norfolk and Western Railway. During a ceremony in New York, the new company’s officers presented the exchange president a golden spike that had been used in national advertising announcing NS’ formation.
At the end of 2011, 330.4 million shares of NS stock were owned by individual and institutional investors.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
June 5, 2012
Norfolk Southern rings The Closing Bell® to commemorate 30 years
NEW YORK, N.Y. – Norfolk Southern rang The Closing Bell® on the New York Stock Exchange today in recognition of the 30th anniversary of the listing of the corporation’s securities.
Accompanied by NS employees and officers, CEO Wick Moorman rang the bell at 4 p.m. to signal the official end of the trading day. The bell-ringing tradition traces its history to the 1870s, and today participation is considered a high honor in American business.
“The bell ceremony calls attention to more than just 30 years,” Moorman said. “It brings to mind the heritage of our predecessor railroads that began in the 1820s, and it encourages us all – investors, railroaders, and customers – to look forward to the best days of our industries and our country.”
Representing Norfolk Southern’s 30,000 employees as Moorman rang the bell at the podium (technically, he pushed a button that rang several bells) were Meri Wilson, electrician in the mechanical department at St. Louis; Isaac James Irby, trackman in the engineering department at Island Ave., Pa.; Monk Wilkerson, engineer in the transportation department at Danville, Ky; Deborah Butler, EVP planning and chief information officer; Jim Hixon, EVP law and corporate relations; John Rathbone, EVP administration; Don Seale, EVP and chief marketing officer; Jim Squires, EVP finance and chief financial officer; and Marta Stewart, VP and treasurer.
Norfolk Southern stock first began trading on June 2, 1982, under the symbol “NSC,” one day after the effective date of the consolidation of Southern Railway and Norfolk and Western Railway. During a ceremony in New York, the new company’s officers presented the exchange president a golden spike that had been used in national advertising announcing NS’ formation.
At the end of 2011, 330.4 million shares of NS stock were owned by individual and institutional investors.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
Friday, June 08, 2012
NS heritage unit 8100 working in Cincinnati
Found on the internet the following picture of NS heritage unit 8100 - NICKEL PLATE ROAD - working behind Cincinnati's Union Terminal (the half dome in the background).
The Cincinnati Union Terminal is one of the great train stations of America, and it has been preserved by making alternate uses of its space. Amtrak still stops there, but their small facilities are tucked away in a corner. Here are two more pictures of the terminal found on the internet.
To find out more about this station, check the following web sites.
http://www.greatamericanstations.com/Stations/CIN
http://www.cincymuseum.org/unionterminal
The Cincinnati Union Terminal is one of the great train stations of America, and it has been preserved by making alternate uses of its space. Amtrak still stops there, but their small facilities are tucked away in a corner. Here are two more pictures of the terminal found on the internet.
To find out more about this station, check the following web sites.
http://www.greatamericanstations.com/Stations/CIN
http://www.cincymuseum.org/unionterminal
Thursday, June 07, 2012
Saturday's trains trifecta
(Train sightings on 6-2-12.)
To venture trackside on any given day, it is always a gamble as to what will be seen. With ample sunshine I decided to see if luck would be with me on this day when I decided to check out some of my favorite locations while running my errands. As I crossed the LEHL’s Hillsborough (NJ) Roycefield Road grade crossing, a headlight of an approaching NS train could be seen. With NS 8326 (ex-CR 6070; C40-8W) leading, it’s consist was COFCs.
Good fortune continued to come along for the ride with me at my second stop in Three Bridges (NJ). Checking the block signal at MP 48, I saw it was set for an eastbound train and decided to wait to see what was coming. NS 212, with NS 9633 and NS 6640 for the motive power, made its appearance within a few minutes after my arrival.
I decided to roll the dice one more time by heading down to Belle Mead (NJ) and see if my good fortune would continue. As luck would have it, CSX Q417 had CSX 789 and CSX 576 leading a short consist of mixed freight heading west over the Trenton Line near MP 50.
Walking back to my truck, I toyed around with the notion of buying a lottery ticket since Lady Luck had definitely been smiling on me today. So did I buy a ticket? The answer would be “Nope!” Will I regret my decision? I suppose that answer will never be known!
To venture trackside on any given day, it is always a gamble as to what will be seen. With ample sunshine I decided to see if luck would be with me on this day when I decided to check out some of my favorite locations while running my errands. As I crossed the LEHL’s Hillsborough (NJ) Roycefield Road grade crossing, a headlight of an approaching NS train could be seen. With NS 8326 (ex-CR 6070; C40-8W) leading, it’s consist was COFCs.
Good fortune continued to come along for the ride with me at my second stop in Three Bridges (NJ). Checking the block signal at MP 48, I saw it was set for an eastbound train and decided to wait to see what was coming. NS 212, with NS 9633 and NS 6640 for the motive power, made its appearance within a few minutes after my arrival.
I decided to roll the dice one more time by heading down to Belle Mead (NJ) and see if my good fortune would continue. As luck would have it, CSX Q417 had CSX 789 and CSX 576 leading a short consist of mixed freight heading west over the Trenton Line near MP 50.
Walking back to my truck, I toyed around with the notion of buying a lottery ticket since Lady Luck had definitely been smiling on me today. So did I buy a ticket? The answer would be “Nope!” Will I regret my decision? I suppose that answer will never be known!
CSX and NASCAR -- Exercise Care Around Railroad Tracks
Received the following via email.
CSX and NASCAR's Regan Smith Urge Motorists and Pedestrians to Exercise Care Around Railroad Tracks
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 4, 2012 - CSX Corporation (CSX) and NASCAR driver Regan Smith kicked off Train Safety Awareness Week today by reminding people to stay away from railroad tracks and use caution at grade crossings.
"I urge drivers to always expect a train at a grade crossing, and I ask parents and kids to talk about the need to stay away from railroad tracks," said Smith. "One incident is one too many, and getting the word out about staying off of railroad property can help avoid needless tragedies."
This year, CSX partnered with Furniture Row Racing to sponsor Smith and the "Play it Safe" campaign, designed to help educate people about the importance of safety around railroad tracks. At selected races, Smith's No. 78 car bears a bumper sticker that says "I brake for trains," reminding everyone to stop at railroad crossings and obey any signs or warning signals.
In Florida, where CSX maintains more than 2,800 miles of track and operates over more than 3,000 public and private grade crossings, Smith and CSX encourage everyone to exercise caution for these and many other reasons:
- It can take more than a mile for a train to come to a complete stop;
- Trains do not always operate on predictable schedules - so assume one
could pass by at any moment; and
- Tracks are private property, and it's illegal and dangerous to trespass.
"Safety is a way of life at CSX. As the summer months bring warmer weather and outdoor activities, it's important to remember the dangers associated with trespassing on rail property and to use caution around railroad crossings," said Jim Marks, vice president of safety, CSX. "We remind everyone not to stop, walk or play on the tracks or near crossings."
To continue educating communities about the importance of safety around railroad tracks, CSX is hosting events around its network to commemorate Train Safety Awareness Week, including "safety blitzes" in many communities, training classes for first responders, safety train trips, and awareness classes.
CSX also continues its partnership with Operation Lifesaver to raise awareness, which has been an important factor in significant reductions in crossing collisions - from 12,000 in 1972 to fewer than 2,000 in 2011. Other important factors include vegetation control to improve visibility, and, with support from public officials, closing unnecessary and redundant crossings.
Rail safety practices aren't limited to Florida residents. Started in 2009, and recognized in more than 40 countries around the world, International Level Crossing Awareness Day (June 7) aims to educate people everywhere about the need to exercise caution at rail crossings. For more information, please visit http://www.ilcad.org/.
For more information on safe rail practices and CSX's commitment to serving the communities in which it operates, please visit http://www.beyondourrails.org/.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like
us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
Carla Groleau
1 (877) TELL-CSX
CSX and NASCAR's Regan Smith Urge Motorists and Pedestrians to Exercise Care Around Railroad Tracks
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 4, 2012 - CSX Corporation (CSX) and NASCAR driver Regan Smith kicked off Train Safety Awareness Week today by reminding people to stay away from railroad tracks and use caution at grade crossings.
"I urge drivers to always expect a train at a grade crossing, and I ask parents and kids to talk about the need to stay away from railroad tracks," said Smith. "One incident is one too many, and getting the word out about staying off of railroad property can help avoid needless tragedies."
This year, CSX partnered with Furniture Row Racing to sponsor Smith and the "Play it Safe" campaign, designed to help educate people about the importance of safety around railroad tracks. At selected races, Smith's No. 78 car bears a bumper sticker that says "I brake for trains," reminding everyone to stop at railroad crossings and obey any signs or warning signals.
In Florida, where CSX maintains more than 2,800 miles of track and operates over more than 3,000 public and private grade crossings, Smith and CSX encourage everyone to exercise caution for these and many other reasons:
- It can take more than a mile for a train to come to a complete stop;
- Trains do not always operate on predictable schedules - so assume one
could pass by at any moment; and
- Tracks are private property, and it's illegal and dangerous to trespass.
"Safety is a way of life at CSX. As the summer months bring warmer weather and outdoor activities, it's important to remember the dangers associated with trespassing on rail property and to use caution around railroad crossings," said Jim Marks, vice president of safety, CSX. "We remind everyone not to stop, walk or play on the tracks or near crossings."
To continue educating communities about the importance of safety around railroad tracks, CSX is hosting events around its network to commemorate Train Safety Awareness Week, including "safety blitzes" in many communities, training classes for first responders, safety train trips, and awareness classes.
CSX also continues its partnership with Operation Lifesaver to raise awareness, which has been an important factor in significant reductions in crossing collisions - from 12,000 in 1972 to fewer than 2,000 in 2011. Other important factors include vegetation control to improve visibility, and, with support from public officials, closing unnecessary and redundant crossings.
Rail safety practices aren't limited to Florida residents. Started in 2009, and recognized in more than 40 countries around the world, International Level Crossing Awareness Day (June 7) aims to educate people everywhere about the need to exercise caution at rail crossings. For more information, please visit http://www.ilcad.org/.
For more information on safe rail practices and CSX's commitment to serving the communities in which it operates, please visit http://www.beyondourrails.org/.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like
us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
Carla Groleau
1 (877) TELL-CSX
Wednesday, June 06, 2012
Children Try To Wreck Train, Dec. 1901
Received the following via email.
Kinsman, OH: Children Try To Wreck Train, Dec. 1901
Tried to Wreck a Train.
Two Children Placed An Obstruction On The Track Near Ashtabula, Ohio
They "Wanted to See a Wreck"
Special to the New York Times.
Ashtabula, Ohio, Dec. 13.- Two children, a boy and a girl, placed an obstruction on the tracks of the Jamestown and Franklin Branch of the Lake Shore Road at 10 o’clock this morning near Kinsman, about thirty miles south of here. A northbound engine and caboose, running at the rate of thirty-five miles an hour, struck it just after turning a curve. The engineer, on seeing the tie ahead, applied the emergency brake and reversed his engine, but was too near to stop in time. The tie was carried several car lengths before it cleared the track.
An examination proved that the tie had been securely braced on the south side with an iron switch staff, and, had the train been going in the opposite direction, the results would probably have been serious.
The train crew looked about for the perpetrators of the outrage, and found the children hidden nearby. It is said that they gave their names as RUBY PROBST, aged fifteen, and HUGH PROBST, aged thirteen. They could give no reason for the deed save that they wanted to see a wreck. They said that their home was at Greenville, Penn., and that they had been visiting at Jamestown.
The New York Times, New York, NY 14 Dec 1901
Kinsman, OH: Children Try To Wreck Train, Dec. 1901
Tried to Wreck a Train.
Two Children Placed An Obstruction On The Track Near Ashtabula, Ohio
They "Wanted to See a Wreck"
Special to the New York Times.
Ashtabula, Ohio, Dec. 13.- Two children, a boy and a girl, placed an obstruction on the tracks of the Jamestown and Franklin Branch of the Lake Shore Road at 10 o’clock this morning near Kinsman, about thirty miles south of here. A northbound engine and caboose, running at the rate of thirty-five miles an hour, struck it just after turning a curve. The engineer, on seeing the tie ahead, applied the emergency brake and reversed his engine, but was too near to stop in time. The tie was carried several car lengths before it cleared the track.
An examination proved that the tie had been securely braced on the south side with an iron switch staff, and, had the train been going in the opposite direction, the results would probably have been serious.
The train crew looked about for the perpetrators of the outrage, and found the children hidden nearby. It is said that they gave their names as RUBY PROBST, aged fifteen, and HUGH PROBST, aged thirteen. They could give no reason for the deed save that they wanted to see a wreck. They said that their home was at Greenville, Penn., and that they had been visiting at Jamestown.
The New York Times, New York, NY 14 Dec 1901
CSX Sets Emissions Intensity Reduction Goal for 2020
Received the following via email.
CSX Sets Emissions Intensity Reduction Goal for 2020
Aggressive Goal Builds on Past Success, Reduces Environmental Footprint
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 1, 2012 -CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today announced its plan to reduce the company's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity 6 to 8 percent over 2011 levels by 2020, helping to shrink the environmental footprint of freight transportation in America. CSX achieved its previous GHG emissions reduction goal a year ahead of its 2011 deadline, decreasing GHG emissions intensity by 8 percent over 2006 levels by 2010.
"This new goal demonstrates CSX's continued commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint, while delivering great service to customers and growth to shareholders," said Skip Elliott, vice president, public safety and environment. "Improving efficiency and protecting the environment is the right thing to do and makes good business sense. CSX is taking aggressive steps now to meet its emission reduction goal as soon as possible."
CSX's employees take a comprehensive approach to efficiency improvements, discovering new ways to reduce the energy required to pull trains, using better equipment to produce that energy more efficiently, and minimizing the energy consumed when locomotives are not pulling trains. In addition, the company has teams focused on reducing the energy footprint of its facilities and vehicles across its network.
"Since 1980, CSX has improved its fuel efficiency by 90 percent, driven by cutting-edge technology," Elliott said. "This new technology, such as trip optimizers and event recorders, helps the company track and improve train operations. In addition, new locomotives such as the GE Evolution series and low-emission switchers are used to benefit the environment and the bottom line."
CSX tracks and reports its environmental progress in a number of ways, including participation in the Carbon Disclosure Project. CSX was named to the Carbon Performance Leadership Index in 2011. In addition, CSX was named a Climate Innovation Leader by the Maplecroft Index this year. The company is also investing in major infrastructure investments, such as the National Gateway public-private partnership, which will further improve network efficiency and reduce overall transportation industry emissions by making existing rail routes accessible to double-stack freight trains.
For more information about CSX's environmental stewardship practices, please visit the company's web site http://www.csx.com/.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
Lauren Rueger
1 (877) TELL-CSX
CSX Sets Emissions Intensity Reduction Goal for 2020
Aggressive Goal Builds on Past Success, Reduces Environmental Footprint
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - June 1, 2012 -CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today announced its plan to reduce the company's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity 6 to 8 percent over 2011 levels by 2020, helping to shrink the environmental footprint of freight transportation in America. CSX achieved its previous GHG emissions reduction goal a year ahead of its 2011 deadline, decreasing GHG emissions intensity by 8 percent over 2006 levels by 2010.
"This new goal demonstrates CSX's continued commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint, while delivering great service to customers and growth to shareholders," said Skip Elliott, vice president, public safety and environment. "Improving efficiency and protecting the environment is the right thing to do and makes good business sense. CSX is taking aggressive steps now to meet its emission reduction goal as soon as possible."
CSX's employees take a comprehensive approach to efficiency improvements, discovering new ways to reduce the energy required to pull trains, using better equipment to produce that energy more efficiently, and minimizing the energy consumed when locomotives are not pulling trains. In addition, the company has teams focused on reducing the energy footprint of its facilities and vehicles across its network.
"Since 1980, CSX has improved its fuel efficiency by 90 percent, driven by cutting-edge technology," Elliott said. "This new technology, such as trip optimizers and event recorders, helps the company track and improve train operations. In addition, new locomotives such as the GE Evolution series and low-emission switchers are used to benefit the environment and the bottom line."
CSX tracks and reports its environmental progress in a number of ways, including participation in the Carbon Disclosure Project. CSX was named to the Carbon Performance Leadership Index in 2011. In addition, CSX was named a Climate Innovation Leader by the Maplecroft Index this year. The company is also investing in major infrastructure investments, such as the National Gateway public-private partnership, which will further improve network efficiency and reduce overall transportation industry emissions by making existing rail routes accessible to double-stack freight trains.
For more information about CSX's environmental stewardship practices, please visit the company's web site http://www.csx.com/.
About CSX
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at http://www.csx.com/. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
Lauren Rueger
1 (877) TELL-CSX
On its 30th anniversary, Norfolk Southern says thank you
Received the following via email.
June 1, 2012
On its 30th anniversary, Norfolk Southern says thank you
NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern marks its 30th anniversary today, acknowledging the people and organizations who have made possible the company’s growth.
“The Norfolk Southern of 2012 is safer, more customer-focused, and more successful by every measure than it ever has been,” said CEO Wick Moorman. “We are highly competitive, environmentally conscious, and constantly seeking new opportunities. The future of our business looks very bright.
“For this we thank our employees and their families, customers, shareholders, suppliers, and communities. They have made NS what it is today, and they will carry us forward,” he said.
Norfolk Southern was created June 1, 1982, with the consolidation of Southern Railway and Norfolk and Western Railway, which trace their lineages to the 1820s. The combination proceeded so smoothly that it was called “one of the most successful mergers in the transportation industry – perhaps in any industry.”
SR and NW had been successful railroads, and the new combination created an organization greater than the sum of its parts. The new NS developed a diversified traffic base among the energy, manufacturing, and finished goods sectors. It became international in its vision, and it built a nascent intermodal program into a key business segment.
On June 1, 1999, NS acquired a large portion of Conrail, increasing market reach and returning rail competition to the Northeast for the first time since the 1970s.
Now NS is the leader in developing public-private partnerships and corridor strategies to improve the nation’s freight transportation network, environmental initiatives to reduce railroad and freight shipper carbon footprints, best practices to improve safety, and technology to enhance service.
The new NS is a job creator. In the last decade, the railroad helped locate and expand 1,053 facilities, representing an investment of $30 billion by NS customers and generating more than 46,000 jobs by those customer companies.
NS itself hired 4,000 new employees in 2011 and plans to hire 2,800 more in 2012 to address attrition and the growing need for freight transportation service.
More of the NS story is reflected in statistics. In 2011 compared with 1982, NS:
· reported an injury ratio of 0.75 per 200,000 employee hours worked, vs. 9.18
· operated 2,060 freight trains a day vs. 1,070
· handled 191.7 billion revenue ton miles vs. 92.6 billion
· generated $11.2 billion in railway operating revenues vs. $3.36 billion
· owned assets of $28.5 billion vs. $7.8 billion
· achieved an operating ratio of 71.2 percent vs. 80.4 percent
· employed 4,100 locomotives in customer service vs. 2,900
· planned coming-year capital improvements of $2.4 billion vs. $180 million
“We have achieved a great deal in 30 years, but in many ways we have only just begun,” Moorman said. “The coming decades will see the economy’s dependence on railroads grow dramatically, and the Thoroughbred of Transportation will set the pace.”
In recognition of its 30 years, NS is painting 20 locomotives in the schemes of selected predecessors, sponsoring a public “family portrait” session of these heritage units July 3-4 in Spencer, N.C., and working with museums in three states on community observances.
NS officers will ring The Closing Bell® on the New York Stock Exchange June 5, and the company is publishing a book, “Eat Steel and Spit Rivets,” about railroad culture as lived by employees.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
June 1, 2012
On its 30th anniversary, Norfolk Southern says thank you
NORFOLK, VA. -- Norfolk Southern marks its 30th anniversary today, acknowledging the people and organizations who have made possible the company’s growth.
“The Norfolk Southern of 2012 is safer, more customer-focused, and more successful by every measure than it ever has been,” said CEO Wick Moorman. “We are highly competitive, environmentally conscious, and constantly seeking new opportunities. The future of our business looks very bright.
“For this we thank our employees and their families, customers, shareholders, suppliers, and communities. They have made NS what it is today, and they will carry us forward,” he said.
Norfolk Southern was created June 1, 1982, with the consolidation of Southern Railway and Norfolk and Western Railway, which trace their lineages to the 1820s. The combination proceeded so smoothly that it was called “one of the most successful mergers in the transportation industry – perhaps in any industry.”
SR and NW had been successful railroads, and the new combination created an organization greater than the sum of its parts. The new NS developed a diversified traffic base among the energy, manufacturing, and finished goods sectors. It became international in its vision, and it built a nascent intermodal program into a key business segment.
On June 1, 1999, NS acquired a large portion of Conrail, increasing market reach and returning rail competition to the Northeast for the first time since the 1970s.
Now NS is the leader in developing public-private partnerships and corridor strategies to improve the nation’s freight transportation network, environmental initiatives to reduce railroad and freight shipper carbon footprints, best practices to improve safety, and technology to enhance service.
The new NS is a job creator. In the last decade, the railroad helped locate and expand 1,053 facilities, representing an investment of $30 billion by NS customers and generating more than 46,000 jobs by those customer companies.
NS itself hired 4,000 new employees in 2011 and plans to hire 2,800 more in 2012 to address attrition and the growing need for freight transportation service.
More of the NS story is reflected in statistics. In 2011 compared with 1982, NS:
· reported an injury ratio of 0.75 per 200,000 employee hours worked, vs. 9.18
· operated 2,060 freight trains a day vs. 1,070
· handled 191.7 billion revenue ton miles vs. 92.6 billion
· generated $11.2 billion in railway operating revenues vs. $3.36 billion
· owned assets of $28.5 billion vs. $7.8 billion
· achieved an operating ratio of 71.2 percent vs. 80.4 percent
· employed 4,100 locomotives in customer service vs. 2,900
· planned coming-year capital improvements of $2.4 billion vs. $180 million
“We have achieved a great deal in 30 years, but in many ways we have only just begun,” Moorman said. “The coming decades will see the economy’s dependence on railroads grow dramatically, and the Thoroughbred of Transportation will set the pace.”
In recognition of its 30 years, NS is painting 20 locomotives in the schemes of selected predecessors, sponsoring a public “family portrait” session of these heritage units July 3-4 in Spencer, N.C., and working with museums in three states on community observances.
NS officers will ring The Closing Bell® on the New York Stock Exchange June 5, and the company is publishing a book, “Eat Steel and Spit Rivets,” about railroad culture as lived by employees.
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Frank Brown, 757-629-2710 (fsbrown@nscorp.com)
(Investors) Michael Hostutler, 757-629-2861 (michael.hostutler@nscorp.com)
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
World's Largest Rail Car Being Built in New Castle
Following article is from the web site for WKBN - 27 in Youngstown, Ohio.
Employees at Kasgro in New Castle (PA) have been making heavy duty rail cars since 1993.
But currently, they are finishing up their largest project ever.
"Normally the biggest car would be a 20-axle or 22-axle Schnabel car," said Kasgro President and CEO Joe Crawford. "This is a 36-axle Schnabel car. It's the biggest car ever built in North America."
The car is 231 feet long and sits 18 feet off the ground. It's bigger than its sister car that was built in Germany back in 1980.
"So we had to replicate all the drawings," said Crawford. "Redo all the drawings to U.S. standards. We've been building this car for a year."
Kasgro hired 15 additional employees to get the job done.
Once it's moving, the car will require a special train and a special six-person crew to operate it. When the rail car is loaded, it can only travel up to 15 mph.
"It can shift laterally 40 inches and and it can shift up 44 inches," said Crawford. "So it can take a huge container and move it around bridges, around tunnels to clear the railroad."
The two ends separate in the middle to accommodate the load, which can weigh up to 880 tons. The 36-axle Schnabel Car is headed to the Port of Charleston to move equipment to expand and build plants for Westinghouse Nuclear.
It's set to make the trip down South in July.
Video and photo at the WKBN web site:
http://www.wkbn.com/content/news/local/story/Worlds-Largest-Rail-Car-Being-Built-in-New-Castle/1eg9xTgM0UO7C-NeQU5N7g.cspx
Employees at Kasgro in New Castle (PA) have been making heavy duty rail cars since 1993.
But currently, they are finishing up their largest project ever.
"Normally the biggest car would be a 20-axle or 22-axle Schnabel car," said Kasgro President and CEO Joe Crawford. "This is a 36-axle Schnabel car. It's the biggest car ever built in North America."
The car is 231 feet long and sits 18 feet off the ground. It's bigger than its sister car that was built in Germany back in 1980.
"So we had to replicate all the drawings," said Crawford. "Redo all the drawings to U.S. standards. We've been building this car for a year."
Kasgro hired 15 additional employees to get the job done.
Once it's moving, the car will require a special train and a special six-person crew to operate it. When the rail car is loaded, it can only travel up to 15 mph.
"It can shift laterally 40 inches and and it can shift up 44 inches," said Crawford. "So it can take a huge container and move it around bridges, around tunnels to clear the railroad."
The two ends separate in the middle to accommodate the load, which can weigh up to 880 tons. The 36-axle Schnabel Car is headed to the Port of Charleston to move equipment to expand and build plants for Westinghouse Nuclear.
It's set to make the trip down South in July.
Video and photo at the WKBN web site:
http://www.wkbn.com/content/news/local/story/Worlds-Largest-Rail-Car-Being-Built-in-New-Castle/1eg9xTgM0UO7C-NeQU5N7g.cspx
Monday, June 04, 2012
Norfolk Southern "We Support Our Troops" SD40E #6318 with classic 1991 Yellow Ribbons reapplied...electronically
Here is a set of father and son emails we received recently.
My eldest son, Jon, created this clever cyberspace 'retro' troops tribute by putting the original 1991 Yellow Ribbons and message back on this former patriotic unit. It seems like a pretty neat idea to me, even if only in the TrainSim universe. The real unit still regularly works the NS main line across southern Pennsylvania. Here's another view of how it looked when it was traveling throughout the Conrail system two decades ago (the yellow ribbons and bows on opposite flanks were mirror images):
http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=91805&nseq=4
Here is an idea I've had for a long time, and I finally decided to put it together and introduce it to the public. Norfolk Southern SD40E 6318 was built as Conrail SD50 6707, which of course was for several years "wrapped" in an attractive yellow ribbon to recognize support for the troops activated during Operation Desert Storm back in '91. In honor of Memorial Day, and the very successful Norfolk Southern Heritage Program, here is an interesting "what if" paint scheme incorporating the yellow ribbon from the 90's back onto the flanks of the 6318. What do you think?
The original 3D model and and original textures are the work of the talented folks over at http://www.streamlines.ca/. Modifications for the yellow ribbon scheme are by yours truly.
My eldest son, Jon, created this clever cyberspace 'retro' troops tribute by putting the original 1991 Yellow Ribbons and message back on this former patriotic unit. It seems like a pretty neat idea to me, even if only in the TrainSim universe. The real unit still regularly works the NS main line across southern Pennsylvania. Here's another view of how it looked when it was traveling throughout the Conrail system two decades ago (the yellow ribbons and bows on opposite flanks were mirror images):
http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=91805&nseq=4
Here is an idea I've had for a long time, and I finally decided to put it together and introduce it to the public. Norfolk Southern SD40E 6318 was built as Conrail SD50 6707, which of course was for several years "wrapped" in an attractive yellow ribbon to recognize support for the troops activated during Operation Desert Storm back in '91. In honor of Memorial Day, and the very successful Norfolk Southern Heritage Program, here is an interesting "what if" paint scheme incorporating the yellow ribbon from the 90's back onto the flanks of the 6318. What do you think?
The original 3D model and and original textures are the work of the talented folks over at http://www.streamlines.ca/. Modifications for the yellow ribbon scheme are by yours truly.
So Proudly They Wave!
(Train sightings on 5-27-12.)
Black River & Western's 1202 is sporting four American flags as it brings its three coaches and a refurbished B&O caboose into Three Bridges. This was the first of two excursions on May 27th that allowed passengers to ride BR&W's tracks from Ringoes to Three Bridges. 1202 will head down the tracks, uncouple from the consist, run around to couple back up to the consist and head back to Ringoes.
Black River & Western's 1202 is sporting four American flags as it brings its three coaches and a refurbished B&O caboose into Three Bridges. This was the first of two excursions on May 27th that allowed passengers to ride BR&W's tracks from Ringoes to Three Bridges. 1202 will head down the tracks, uncouple from the consist, run around to couple back up to the consist and head back to Ringoes.
Sunday, June 03, 2012
21st Century Steam excursion train trips scheduled for June in North Carolina and Virginia
Received the following via email.
May 25, 2012
21st Century Steam excursion train trips scheduled for June in North Carolina and Virginia
NORFOLK, VA. and CHATTANOOGA, TENN. – If you have been waiting to ride a train behind a century-old steam locomotive, here is your chance.
As part of the 21st Century Steam program of Norfolk Southern and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, excursions are being offered in June in North Carolina and Virginia behind steam locomotive 630.
June 16-17, Spencer to Barber, N.C., and return
· Host: North Carolina Transportation Museum
· Train departures from museum: 9 a.m., 12:15 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. each day
· Route: Norfolk Southern “S-Line” between Spencer and Barber, 24-mile round trip
· Power: steam locomotive 630 only (no diesels assisting)
· Equipment: air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats and large picture windows
· Fare: $35 adults, $25 children ages 3-12. Children 2 and under not occupying seats do not require tickets.
June 23, Spencer to Winston-Salem, N.C., one way (bus return)
· Train departs North Carolina Transportation Museum 10 a.m.
· Train arrives Winston-Salem 2 p.m.
· Bus arrives North Carolina Transportation Museum 3 p.m.
· Route: Norfolk Southern main line from Spencer to Greensboro, and NS “K-Line” from Greensboro to Winston-Salem
· Power: steam locomotive 630 with diesels assisting
· Equipment: air-conditioned coaches
· Fare: $80. Includes box lunch and bus return to North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer.
June 24, Winston-Salem, N.C., to Roanoke, Va., one way (with bus connections from Roanoke and to Winston Salem)
· Train departs Winston-Salem 10 a.m.
· Train arrives Roanoke 3:30 p.m.
· Route: Norfolk Southern “Punkinvine” line between Winston-Salem and Roanoke
· Power: steam locomotive 630 with diesels assisting
· Equipment: air-conditioned coaches
· Fare: $95. Includes box lunch and bus transportation. For Roanoke-originating passengers, bus will depart Roanoke 7 a.m.; for Winston-Salem-originating passengers, bus will depart Roanoke within a half hour of train’s arrival in Roanoke.
Tickets for all trips are available through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s website at http://www.tvrail.com/.
Additional one-way excursions are planned in July and September. Check TVRM’s website or call 423-894-8028 for the latest information.
Southern Railway 630, the steam locomotive featured on these trains, is a Consolidation-type locomotive built in 1904 at the Richmond, Va., works of the American Locomotive Company. Number 630 pulled freight trains during the first half of the last century, mostly in North Carolina, and in the 1960s and ‘70s traveled extensively in excursion service throughout the Southeast. Small of size but big in character, this locomotive underwent an exhaustive 10-year rehabilitation at TVRM’s Soule Shops complex in East Chattanooga before returning to service in 2011.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum was founded in 1961 in Chattanooga to create an interpretive operating museum of historic equipment and artifacts in an authentic setting. Today it operates an extensive schedule of historic and scenic trains in Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia, supported by its East Chattanooga locomotive and shop complex. TVRM is the largest operating historical excursion railroad in the Southeast.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
21st Century Steam is a partnership between Norfolk Southern and TVRM to operate steam-powered excursions throughout the territory Norfolk Southern serves. More information is available on the 21st Century Steam website at www.21stcenturysteam.com.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum contacts:
(Media) Steve Freer, 423-331-4501 (sfreer@tvrail.com)
Robert Pettway, 423-503-5225 (pettman2001@yahoo.com)
May 25, 2012
21st Century Steam excursion train trips scheduled for June in North Carolina and Virginia
NORFOLK, VA. and CHATTANOOGA, TENN. – If you have been waiting to ride a train behind a century-old steam locomotive, here is your chance.
As part of the 21st Century Steam program of Norfolk Southern and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, excursions are being offered in June in North Carolina and Virginia behind steam locomotive 630.
June 16-17, Spencer to Barber, N.C., and return
· Host: North Carolina Transportation Museum
· Train departures from museum: 9 a.m., 12:15 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. each day
· Route: Norfolk Southern “S-Line” between Spencer and Barber, 24-mile round trip
· Power: steam locomotive 630 only (no diesels assisting)
· Equipment: air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats and large picture windows
· Fare: $35 adults, $25 children ages 3-12. Children 2 and under not occupying seats do not require tickets.
June 23, Spencer to Winston-Salem, N.C., one way (bus return)
· Train departs North Carolina Transportation Museum 10 a.m.
· Train arrives Winston-Salem 2 p.m.
· Bus arrives North Carolina Transportation Museum 3 p.m.
· Route: Norfolk Southern main line from Spencer to Greensboro, and NS “K-Line” from Greensboro to Winston-Salem
· Power: steam locomotive 630 with diesels assisting
· Equipment: air-conditioned coaches
· Fare: $80. Includes box lunch and bus return to North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer.
June 24, Winston-Salem, N.C., to Roanoke, Va., one way (with bus connections from Roanoke and to Winston Salem)
· Train departs Winston-Salem 10 a.m.
· Train arrives Roanoke 3:30 p.m.
· Route: Norfolk Southern “Punkinvine” line between Winston-Salem and Roanoke
· Power: steam locomotive 630 with diesels assisting
· Equipment: air-conditioned coaches
· Fare: $95. Includes box lunch and bus transportation. For Roanoke-originating passengers, bus will depart Roanoke 7 a.m.; for Winston-Salem-originating passengers, bus will depart Roanoke within a half hour of train’s arrival in Roanoke.
Tickets for all trips are available through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s website at http://www.tvrail.com/.
Additional one-way excursions are planned in July and September. Check TVRM’s website or call 423-894-8028 for the latest information.
Southern Railway 630, the steam locomotive featured on these trains, is a Consolidation-type locomotive built in 1904 at the Richmond, Va., works of the American Locomotive Company. Number 630 pulled freight trains during the first half of the last century, mostly in North Carolina, and in the 1960s and ‘70s traveled extensively in excursion service throughout the Southeast. Small of size but big in character, this locomotive underwent an exhaustive 10-year rehabilitation at TVRM’s Soule Shops complex in East Chattanooga before returning to service in 2011.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum was founded in 1961 in Chattanooga to create an interpretive operating museum of historic equipment and artifacts in an authentic setting. Today it operates an extensive schedule of historic and scenic trains in Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia, supported by its East Chattanooga locomotive and shop complex. TVRM is the largest operating historical excursion railroad in the Southeast.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
21st Century Steam is a partnership between Norfolk Southern and TVRM to operate steam-powered excursions throughout the territory Norfolk Southern serves. More information is available on the 21st Century Steam website at www.21stcenturysteam.com.
###
Norfolk Southern contacts:
(Media) Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713 (robin.chapman@nscorp.com)
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum contacts:
(Media) Steve Freer, 423-331-4501 (sfreer@tvrail.com)
Robert Pettway, 423-503-5225 (pettman2001@yahoo.com)
Some NS heritage units to get touch-ups
Following is an article copied from Eastern Railroad News web site.
NS Sending Some Heritage Units Back to the Booth…
NORFOLK, VA – MAY 29, 2012 – Norfolk Southern is making every effort to reproduce accurate depictions of the roads they are representing in their 20-unit heritage paint schemes, so much so that some are going back for changes!
Last week, NS sent the Nickel Plate heritage unit, 8100 into the paint booth at Chattanooga for some correction and new application of cab-side numbers, bringing it even closer to true to historical proportions. NS has worked closely with the historical groups that are related to each of the predecessor schemes that are being represented and have received some guidance on changes that would please the detailed observer.
Click to deleteAdditional units are being lined up for changes prior to the July heritage gathering in Spencer, North Carolina, including the Lehigh Valley and Conrail units. The Lehigh Valley ES44AC, 8104, is heading back to Altoona, PA to receive the proper white and black nose stripes as well as the orange handrails that made the LV Cornell red units unique. Also there are reports that the Conrail Heritage ES44AC 8098 is supposed to get the proper cab numbering and a larger CONRAIL name applied to the nose of the unit. It was unclear whether the NS 8098 would have that work done at Chattanooga or Altoona.
The move was lauded by the historical groups for the extreme attention to detail and for making the efforts to ‘make them right’.
NS Sending Some Heritage Units Back to the Booth…
NORFOLK, VA – MAY 29, 2012 – Norfolk Southern is making every effort to reproduce accurate depictions of the roads they are representing in their 20-unit heritage paint schemes, so much so that some are going back for changes!
Last week, NS sent the Nickel Plate heritage unit, 8100 into the paint booth at Chattanooga for some correction and new application of cab-side numbers, bringing it even closer to true to historical proportions. NS has worked closely with the historical groups that are related to each of the predecessor schemes that are being represented and have received some guidance on changes that would please the detailed observer.
Click to deleteAdditional units are being lined up for changes prior to the July heritage gathering in Spencer, North Carolina, including the Lehigh Valley and Conrail units. The Lehigh Valley ES44AC, 8104, is heading back to Altoona, PA to receive the proper white and black nose stripes as well as the orange handrails that made the LV Cornell red units unique. Also there are reports that the Conrail Heritage ES44AC 8098 is supposed to get the proper cab numbering and a larger CONRAIL name applied to the nose of the unit. It was unclear whether the NS 8098 would have that work done at Chattanooga or Altoona.
The move was lauded by the historical groups for the extreme attention to detail and for making the efforts to ‘make them right’.
RG Steel, Warren, OH Gives 60-Day CLOSING Notice
Received the following via email from a fellow railfan.
This is the former Republic Steel Mill In Warren, OH, where my Grandad used to work. This means the end of the Ashtabula to Warren ore train that comes though town every day. Norfolk Southern recently spent a lot of money fixing the line and raising the track speed to 40 mph. So, this might be the end of making steel in Warren over the last 100 years.
This morning while sitting on the front porch having coffee about 0800 I decided to take a drive to Weirton and Mingo to look around.
Depressing is all I can say.
From Rt 22 looking down on Weirton Jct Yard (Weirton Steel) the yard was well represented with empty NS coil steel cars. No locomotives in sight at all. In downtown Weirton the tracks under the Rt 2 bridge were loaded with inbound loaded coil cars.
Went to Follansbee and Mountain State Carbon is doing well and saw SW1500 #1548 fully lettered Mountain States Carbon. Lots of coke cars in the yard--loaded and empty.
Crossed over to Steubenville and dropped into Mingo. Steubenville mill is boarded up--one car in the parking lot near the guard shanty. At Mingo the locomotive shop was blocked with a train of NS hoppers but no motive power in sight and the "house" doors were closed. It appears that the hopper train was an inbound empty train for Powhatan Six mine.
The icing on the cake today was that RG Steel gave the required 60 days notice to lay off all workers at Warren and close the mill. Cited "doubtful financing arrangements for future operations" as the reason.
This is the former Republic Steel Mill In Warren, OH, where my Grandad used to work. This means the end of the Ashtabula to Warren ore train that comes though town every day. Norfolk Southern recently spent a lot of money fixing the line and raising the track speed to 40 mph. So, this might be the end of making steel in Warren over the last 100 years.
This morning while sitting on the front porch having coffee about 0800 I decided to take a drive to Weirton and Mingo to look around.
Depressing is all I can say.
From Rt 22 looking down on Weirton Jct Yard (Weirton Steel) the yard was well represented with empty NS coil steel cars. No locomotives in sight at all. In downtown Weirton the tracks under the Rt 2 bridge were loaded with inbound loaded coil cars.
Went to Follansbee and Mountain State Carbon is doing well and saw SW1500 #1548 fully lettered Mountain States Carbon. Lots of coke cars in the yard--loaded and empty.
Crossed over to Steubenville and dropped into Mingo. Steubenville mill is boarded up--one car in the parking lot near the guard shanty. At Mingo the locomotive shop was blocked with a train of NS hoppers but no motive power in sight and the "house" doors were closed. It appears that the hopper train was an inbound empty train for Powhatan Six mine.
The icing on the cake today was that RG Steel gave the required 60 days notice to lay off all workers at Warren and close the mill. Cited "doubtful financing arrangements for future operations" as the reason.