Monday, March 31, 2014

BBCX 1000 Schnabel car by Bound Brook on train W98628

Received the following via email, as posted on Yahoo Groups CRRNJ on 3-29-14.

Hello all....  I just came through Bound Brook on my caboose BBCX 1002 with Schnabel Car BBCX 1000 and flat car BBCX 1004 on train W98628 Locomotive CSXT 8739.  I know I was on the old Lehigh Valley and that is where the Reading took over.  As we came through I saw the tracks bearing off to the right which I believe is CNJ to Raritan(Spelling ?) and the crossover between the CNJ and Reading which I believe used to be double track for the B&O going to Jersey City.  Right in the middle I saw what looked to be a Rail to Trail and am curious as to which railroad the trail may have been.   Also hello to all the photographers at Bound Brook and elsewhere.  If by chance you belong to this group say hello.  This is a special train going to Hardeeville SC with a stop at Florence for a few days. This movement is with the deck in place which is unusual. I hope all took good pictures in the rain.  Thanks for coming out and seeing the equipment.


Friday, March 28, 2014

Norfolk Southern's Moorman speaks at Forbes Summit

Received the following via email.

March 27, 2014

Listen, innovate, and improve for the next Industrial Revolution, Norfolk Southern’s Moorman says at Forbes Summit 

Chicago, Ill. -- “21st century freight railroads are listening to our customers and communities, innovating to meet their needs, and steadily improving our ability to serve as the backbone of the next industrial revolution,” Norfolk Southern Corporation’s chairman and CEO told attendees at the Forbes’ “Reinventing America – Leading the Next Industrial Revolution” Summit here. 

“Today’s freight railroads are safe, dependable, efficient, and green,” Wick Moorman said. “We move the raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods that move the economy. The good news is that we have the capability and desire to do much more.” 

Addressing a discussion theme that posited, “Once left for dead as a relic of the 19thcentury, railroads are emerging as the most important logistics system of the 21stcentury,” Moorman described several Norfolk Southern initiatives contributing to what often is called the “rail renaissance.” 

On the technology side these include Movement Planner and the Unified Train Control dispatching systems developed in collaboration with GE, and the LEADER system for locomotive fuel efficiency. In the marketing arena, Moorman highlighted NS’ expanding services to the crude oil industry, and the export automotive trade, where the railroad handles a large percentage of vehicles destined for global markets. “When you see a Norfolk Southern train, that’s our economy in motion,” he said. 

“The earliest predecessors of Norfolk Southern were born at the end of the first Industrial Revolution, and railroads came into their own during the second Industrial Revolution,” Moorman said. “We build our infrastructure and systems for the long-term – investing $10 billion since 2010 alone. We plan to be around another 180 years, and you can count on us to do our part to usher in a new age of growth.” 

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, 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) 


Thursday, March 27, 2014

Before the Blue Unit circus train passed by...

(Train sightings on 3-24-14.)

...my location at the LEHL's Valley Road grade crossing in Hillsborough there was NS 22V with NS 2682 and NS 7504 coming east through Manville's 13th Street grade crossing.



About 10:00, I got a call stating that the Blue Unit's circus train was calling signals at Port Reading Junction. Ahhh... it won't be long now so I can snap some photos of the circus train and get out of this cold to thaw out. It was frigid being track side on Monday morning and a steady breeze made it feel a whole lot colder. But wait, the circus train is slowly making its way up the Roycefield Runner, now designated as Main 1, and has stopped. The signal governing eastbound traffic showed a blinking amber over red, an indication that something was coming east. That eastbound train would be NS 212. Its leader was UP 7392 followed by NS 2648 and NS 8377.



Once that cleared, the circus train was given permission to proceed west. P047's motive power of NS 2731 and NS 2704 would bring its consist of sixty-one cars that weighed in at 4,490 tons and was 5,409 feet long off Main 1 and on to Main 2 to continue its 822 mile trip to Columbia, SC. The Blue Unit's next trip through this area will be around May 12 and 13 when it makes the trip from Hartford (CT) to Trenton (NJ). By then it should be warmer for being track side!  




Tuesday, March 25, 2014

An interesting day trackside along the LEHL!

(Train sightings on 3-22-14.) 

It turned out to be an interesting afternoon on Saturday along the LEHL here in central NJ. NS 052, a high / wide Air Products load, made the slow trip from Bethlehem to Manville on what was a nice day. On Sunday morning,this high / wide consist would head down CSX's Trenton Line as CSX X999 for eventual shipment overseas, destination unknown. Motive power for this move was two "heritage" units, NS 3426 and NS 5269. NS 3426 is an SD40-2 that was built in 1966 as KCS 602 and would become CR 6962. NS 5269 is an ex-PC and CR GP38-2 that was numbered 8058. The first image shows 052 passing slowly, train personnel described it as "...walking speed", through the double bridges west of the Hamden Road grade crossing in Hunterdon County. That second image shows the APTX 201,the car carrying this first h/w load, wheel configuration. In all my years of seeing these Air Products high / wide moves, this is the first time I can recall seeing two of these units being moved simultaneously. 




On my way home once the high / wide was stored in the ex-Reading Manville yard, I headed home via the crossing over the Valley Road grade crossing in Hillsborough, a westbound headlight could be seen in distance. Leading what was NS 33K was CN 2160 (C40-8W) seen here west of the Roycefield Road grade crossing at CP SULLY with its consist of mixed freight.



Sunday, March 23, 2014

Train Show Final Weekend

Received the following via email.


MODEL TRAIN SHOW
FINAL WEEKEND
o scale For More Information Visit us at www.ModelEngineers.org
                88th Annual Spring Open House                
 
   The members of The New York Society of Model Engineers cordially invite you to attend the final weekend of our Annual Spring Open House, March 21, 22, 23. Friday's 7:00 - 10:00, Saturday's & Sundays 1:00 - 6:00.
 
Adults: $5.00
Children (Under 12): $1.00
 
New York Society of Model Engineers
341 Hoboken Road
Carlstadt, New Jersey 07072
Visit our Website
Children Admitted Free w/Ad
Parents present this coupon at the time of your visit and children under 12 will be admitted free with paid Adult admission. One offer per visit. Children must be accompanied by adult. 
 
Offer Expires: 3/23/14

New York Society of Model Engineers | 341 Hoboken Road | Carlstadt | NJ | 07072


Saturday, March 22, 2014

NS 2013 Annual Report highlights breakthrough year and looks ahead to rail’s key role in the American economy

Received the following via email. 

March 19, 2014

Norfolk Southern 2013 Annual Report highlights breakthrough year and looks ahead to rail’s key role in the American economy

NORFOLK, VA. – It was a “big year,” CEO Wick Moorman tells stockholders in the 2013 Annual Report, posted online today, and, “I am confident in the future of Norfolk Southern and the rail industry and in our ability to help move the nation’s economy forward.”

Describing 2013 as a breakthrough year, Moorman said, “We achieved record performance levels as our investments in network capacity, technology, and new talent delivered the safe, efficient, and dependable service our transportation customers deserve.

“We set new precedents for railway operating revenues and income from railway operations and achieved new landmarks for net income, earnings per share, and operating ratio,” he said.

Moorman said the company is “revitalizing our existing network not only to change with the times but to lead with innovation and determination.”

He credited the people of Norfolk Southern. “Their talents, ingenuity, and hard work brought us to new heights today and will take us even further in the years ahead,” Moorman said.

The annual report is distributed to stockholders, the financial community, news media, and libraries. To request a copy, call 800-531-6757, email annualreport@nscorp.com, or write to Norfolk Southern Corp., Corporate Communications Department, Three Commercial Place, Norfolk, Va. 23510-9217.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, 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)



Thursday, March 20, 2014

Tri-State RHS - Trip to NY Transit Museum - March 29, 2014

Received the following via email. 

Tri-State Railway Historical Society

Spring Rail Trip to the

New York Transit Museum

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Trip Highlights:

. Travel in NJ Transit and NYC Subway

. Lunch at place of your choosing

. 2+ hours to explore the NY Transit Museum

Approximate transportation cost: Adults $36, Seniors $22

Those who show go - - -

The New York Transit Museum, one of the city's leading cultural institutions is the largest museum in the United States devoted to urban public transportation history, and one of the premier institutions of its kind in the world. The Museum explores the development of the greater New York Metropolitan region through the presentations of exhibitions, tours, educational programs, and workshops dealing with the cultural, social, and technological history of public transportation. Since its inception over a quarter century ago, the Museum, housed in a historic 1936 IND subway station in Brooklyn Heights, has grown in scope and popularity. As custodian and interpreter of the region's extensive public transportation networks, the Museum strives to share, through its public programs, this rich and vibrant history with local, regional, and international audiences. (*from NY Transit Museum web site: web.mta.info/mta/museum/

General Admission: Adults $7, Seniors (62+) $5. Saturday hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Proposed itinerary: 9:27A depart Convent Station NJT train 6916
Midtown Direct arr NY Penn 10:39.

2/3 train to Boro Hall, Brooklyn. Arrive approx. 11:30A.

Lunch at local eateries before

12:30P Enter Transit Museum (No food is served inside museum).

Tour museum and gift shop approx. 2+ hours

3:00P rendezvous in lobby for return trip:

A/C train from Jay St/MetroTech to Penn Station arrive 3:30pm.

4:11P depart NY Penn NJT train 6931. Arrive Convent Station 5:24.


Wednesday, March 19, 2014

UP power in Manville, NJ

Following photo is from George Miller showing Union Pacific power on an eastbound stack train in Manville, NJ, on Sunday,  3-16-14.




A New Year, A New Rail Car - Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Received an email announcement from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, but we were unable to copy it to our blog.  Instead, here is the opening paragraph and a link to the web page version of the announcement. 

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad announces the acquisition of Western Maryland Railway Business Car #204 and announces 2014 Steam Schedule. 

http://us7.campaign-archive2.com/?u=62bc313726bc7f99a71f3df9f&id=6e560d0dbc&e=f97255a2fa 


Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Sightings on a blustery Saturday!

(Train sightings on 3-15.14.) 

Photo 1-With NS 9303 and NS 9765, NS 20E (Chicago to Croxton) enters the Royce Runner siding in Hillsborough (NJ) on March 15, 2014 in order to allow NS 211 to head west. Earlier in the week, this siding became fully operational and no longer required trains to stop and manually throw the switch in order to enter or leave the west end of this siding. This also eliminated the tied up grade crossings in this area. The former Royce Running Track is now designated as Main 1 while the single main is now designated as Main 2. Regarding the designation of "Sully",this CP was named to recognize NS and former EL engineer John Sullivan who passed away before his retirement.  




Photo 2- With a CSX crew, NS 24K makes its way down CSX's Trenton Line after waiting for CSX K041 to clear Port Reading Jct in Manville (NJ). With scheduled MOW shutdowns on SEPTA's Norristown Line 24K (Rutherford to Morrisville, PA) was re-routed once again east over NS’s Lehigh Line and then west down CSX’s Trenton Line.  




Gary Sease Named CSXT Vice President, Corporate Communications

Received the following via email.

Gary Sease Named CSXT Vice President, Corporate Communications

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - March 12, 2014 - CSX Transportation, Inc. today announced the appointment of Gary T. Sease as vice president, corporate communications, effective March 30.  He succeeds Vance Meyer, who is leaving CSX after leading significant communications efforts, including successfully strengthening the company's brand and developing social media capabilities over the past nine years.

Currently, Sease serves as director, corporate communications for CSX Transportation, a role in which he leads the company's media efforts and supports initiatives with respect to branding, employee engagement, the financial community and public safety.  In that regard, Sease developed the company's signature "Play it Safe" campaigns, and led CSX's efforts to broaden public safety messages, often in partnership with government and non-profit safety agencies.

"Gary is a skilled and experienced communications professional and leader who seeks to address the needs and expectations of CSX's many audiences with candor, efficiency and insight. With extensive media relations, regulatory, financial and management communications background, he will build on the successes Vance brought to CSX," said Ellen Fitzsimmons, CSX executive vice president of law and public affairs.

Sease began his career as a reporter at The Florida Times-Union and later worked for United Press International before joining CSX in 1986.  He has been active in the Florida and Jacksonville Chambers of Commerce and the Florida NAACP.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Melanie Cost
904-359-1702


Friday, March 14, 2014

CSX Expects More Modest Full-Year Earnings Growth Reflecting Challenging Weather Conditions

Received the following via email.

CSX Expects More Modest Full-Year Earnings Growth Reflecting Challenging Weather Conditions

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - March 12, 2014 - CSX (NYSE: CSX) Corporation Chief Financial Officer Fredrik Eliasson today discussed a variety of financial and market-specific topics at the J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation and Industrials Conference in New York City, including the first quarter weather impact on CSX, macroeconomic drivers of company growth, and long-term earnings guidance.

"The severe weather has challenged CSX operations and volume, with the impact on first quarter earnings now expected to approach 10 cents per share," Eliasson said. "However, we still expect full-year earnings growth in 2014, though at a more modest rate than previously anticipated, with the underlying strength in our merchandise and intermodal markets combined with visibility to several million new tons of domestic coal helping to offset the first quarter impact."

After several years of excess inventory at coal-fired utility plants in CSX's service territory, inventories are now close to normal levels as a result of the colder than normal winter weather. In addition, broad-based growth in the company's merchandise and intermodal markets in 2014 will continue on the strength of macroeconomic expansion, opportunities afforded by the process of natural gas drilling, and conversions from highway to intermodal service.

"To continue to promote modal conversion, CSX is making strategic investments to capitalize on an estimated 9 million truckloads in the East that would benefit from intermodal service," said Eliasson. "To leverage that opportunity, the company is expanding its Northwest Ohio Intermodal Terminal to leverage growth in the small- and mid-sized markets CSX now reaches as a result of its combined corridor and hub-and-spoke strategies."

Long-term, the company expects to continue generating sustainable, profitable growth for investors by leveraging its diverse business portfolio while continuing to price above inflation and drive efficiency gains of at least $130 million per year.

With this as a foundation and with coal headwinds subsiding, CSX expects to deliver double-digit EPS growth on a sustainable basis. However, it is not clear whether the double-digit EPS growth expected in 2015 will be sufficient, in combination with the more modest earnings growth expected in 2014, to produce a compound annual growth rate of 10 to 15 percent off over the two year period.  At the same time, CSX continues to target a high-60s operating ratio by 2015, which the company believes is still attainable. Longer term, the company remains focused on achieving a mid-60s operating ratio.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Melanie Cost
904-359-1702

Thursday, March 13, 2014

NS's Southern heritage unit at Manville, NJ

Following photo of NS 8099, the Southern heritage unit, was taken in Manville, NJ on 3-9-14 by George Miller.




NS unveils new locomotive in celebration of GoRail's tenth anniversary

Received the following via email.

March 12, 2014

Norfolk Southern unveils new locomotive in celebration of GoRail’s tenth anniversary

Unique commemorative locomotive joins Norfolk Southern’s fleet

NORFOLK, VA. – GoRail and Norfolk Southern announced the unveiling of its one-of-a-kind GoRail locomotive today to commemorate the 10th anniversary of GoRail, a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to educating the public about the benefits of moving more freight by rail. Founded in 2004, GoRail mobilizes support for policies that would lead to more freight moving by rail and opposition to policies that would limit the freight railroads’ ability to meet growing freight demand. The GoRail locomotive will enter into regular freight service on Norfolk Southern’s system.

“We are honored that Norfolk Southern has commissioned this special GoRail locomotive and are excited for its debut,” said GoRail President Russell McGurk. “We believe it will help GoRail spread awareness about the many public benefits of rail, including more jobs, improved safety, less pollution and less energy consumption. When the public understands that America’s privately owned freight railroads invest billions of dollars each year in the nation’s rail network, so taxpayers don’t have to, they are eager to get behind pro-rail policies.”

The SD60E model features a paint scheme combining the infinity lines of the Norfolk Southern livery with the tracks of the GoRail logo. The lines end in an arrow to depict movement, and the GoRail colors carry through the modified speed lines to show the unity of GoRail and Norfolk Southern, creating the look of land as seen from above and signifying freight movement. The GoRail locomotive joins Norfolk Southern’s 30th anniversary fleet of 20 non-traditional locomotives painted in the schemes of key predecessor railroad companies and the veterans’ locomotive painted to honor those who have served in the military and reserves. The GoRail locomotive was painted in Altoona, involving 14 Norfolk Southern employees using 60 gallons of primer and paint over a 40-hour period.

“Our industry has a great story to tell, and GoRail does an excellent job of educating the public about the benefits and strengths of the American freight rail system and the continuing high levels of freight rail investment to drive safety, service and growth,” said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. “We are pleased to help promote GoRail and their pro-rail mission.”

The unveiling of the GoRail locomotive (No. 6963) will take place at a reception on Wednesday, March 12 at Union Station in Washington, D.C., the evening preceding Railroad Day on Capitol Hill. Photos will then be posted to the GoRail and Norfolk Southern social media accounts.

A time-lapse video of the painting of No. 6963 is on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7h55AaK6rZ0.

GoRail is a national non-profit grassroots organization founded in 2004 with the support of the nation’s freight railroads and rail supply companies. GoRail unites rail stakeholders with community leaders and the public to support rail solutions for tomorrow’s transportation challenges.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, and industrial products.

###

GoRail Contact:
Curtis Sloan, 703-519-4740, csloan@gorail.org

Norfolk Southern Contacts:
Robin Chapman, 757-629-2713, robin.chapman@nscorp.com


Following photo is from RailPictures.Net taken on 3-1-14 at the Juniata Locomotive Shop in Altoona, PA.



Wednesday, March 12, 2014

NS's Southern heritage unit makes five!

(Train sightings on 3-9-14.)

With my photographing of NS's Southern heritage unit leading intermodal NS 212 (Atlanta, GA to Croxton, NJ) through Manville, NJ's 13 Street grade crossing on March 9, that now makes five of the twenty units I have photographed. Snapping this image proved to be a challenge as 212 was late coming into NJ. Evidently there was some type of delay in the Harrisburg, PA area that caused an estimated two hour delay in passing over the LEHL in central NJ around 2:30 PM to Croxton. Oh well, a poorly illuminated image is definitely better than no image at all, wouldn't you agree? 




And I'm down to four!!

Received the following via email from Kermit Geary, Jr.  Text and photos are his.

Finally shot the Southern Heritage unit leading Train 212 eastbound at Lyons today.  After working in Scranton, PA all day Saturday on the ARHS's B-unit getting it ready to travel to Spencer, NC for the Streamliner event, got word from a good friend that the South was sending one of her favorite girls North to the land of snow and ice.

Got the shot, dealt with the snow and ice...(I think it won as I came home and have had a heating pad on my knee the rest of the day)...but the shot was worth the effort.

This leaves the DL&W, LV, N&W, and Central of Georgia units left from the first group of 20 units to photograph.  Still need the N&PBL and the two SD60E's.

If anyone is near the Allentown PA area this upcoming weekend, The Railroad Historians of the Lehigh Valley's monthly meeting will be featuring Jim Schlegel's excellent program on the "Forgotten Branchlines of the East PennValley".

Hope to see you there!






Saturday, March 08, 2014

CSX Named One of World's Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE Magazine

Received the following via email. 

CSX Named One of World's Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE Magazine

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - February 27, 2014 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today announced that it has been named one of the World's Most Admired Companies in 2014, according to a survey published by FORTUNE Magazine. The comprehensive rankings were released today.

In 2013 CSX achieved an industry leading safety performance, as well as record-high customer satisfaction, revenues and earnings per share from continuing operations, all while taking forward-leaning actions to position its rail network to serve the nation's freight transportation needs for many years to come.

The company's vision is to be the safest, most progressive North American railroad, relentless in the pursuit of customer and employee excellence. CSX is guided by core values that focus on customer satisfaction, employee engagement, a culture of safety and a commitment to care for the environment and the communities it serves.

The FORTUNE World's Most Admired Companies survey, conducted annually, measures corporate reputation based on attributes ranging from social responsibility and innovation to long-term investment value and product quality. The World's Most Admired Companies list is voted on by executives, directors and analysts across all industries.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its
subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Kristin Seay
904-359-3442


Thursday, March 06, 2014

CSX CFO to Address J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation and Industrials Conference

Received the following via email. 

CSX Corporation Chief Financial Officer to Address J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation and Industrials Conference

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - March 5, 2014 - Fredrik Eliasson, CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) executive vice president and chief financial officer will address the J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation and Industrials conference in New York City on Wednesday, March 12, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

Access to the audio webcast will be available on CSX's website at http://investors.csx.com.  A replay and accompanying audio will be available following the conclusion of this event.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products.  For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development.  Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides.  It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike.  More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at 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

Melanie Cost, Corporate Communications
904-359-1702


NS President to address J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation & Industrials Conference

Received the following via email. 

March 3, 2014

Norfolk Southern President to address J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation & Industrials Conference
                                                                    
NORFOLK, VA. – Norfolk Southern Corporation President James A. Squires will participate in the 2014 J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation & Industrials Conference.

J.P. Morgan Aviation, Transportation & Industrials Conference
Tuesday, March 11, 2014, 11 a.m. EDT

An audio webcast will be available at www.nscorp.com in the Investors section.

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company 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, automotive, 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)


Wednesday, March 05, 2014

The Easter Bunny Train Ride & Easter Egg Hunt 2014

Received the following via email.

Ride the ONLY Easter Bunny train ride where you get off the train and have an Easter Egg Hunt!
While on the train visit with Mr. E. Bunny. Give him a hug and take a picture!
Your ride will wind along the scenic Delaware River leaving from the Historic District of Phillipsburg, New Jersey. The train will travel along the river to Carpentersville and our destination will be the site of the historic Lime Kilns. In front of the 150 year old Lime kilns is a beautiful little glade filled with Easter Eggs! Once we arrive you can get off the train, take a picture with Mr. Bunny and

gather 4 Easter eggs filled with little toys ( similar to what you find in cracker jack).
Enjoy the cute Easter music on the train, the gift shop, the snack bar, our banjo playing Hobo and a Juggler, its fun for the whole family!
Trips run on:

April 12, April 13,
and April 19th.

11am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm and 3:30 pm


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thomas Comes In July!



JULY 11,12,13,18,19,20

Day Out With Thomas is a family event that offers children and their grownups the opportunity to ride with classic storybook friend Thomas the Tank Engine™ . Parents, grandparents and siblings join their aspiring engineers in the fun. The Day Out With Thomas experience will engineer miles of smiles for the whole family and introduce a new generation to the timeless excitement of railroading.

The train pulled by Thomas leaves every hour on the hour, 10 am to 5 pm.

You may also ride  the River Train along the scenic Delaware River  to Pinchers Point, New Jersey ( an hour and fifteen minute round trip).  For an added adventure take the River Train to the Ol' Susquehanna Mine , enjoy the animated Mine Shaft Explosion, History and learn how to pan for Gem Stones that you can take home!.

The trips pulled by Thomas take you along the beautiful Delaware River to North Carpentersville New Jersey, a 25 minute ride.

The River Train   pulled by our STEAM locomotive #142  follows the same route  journeying further along the river to Edingers  with a brief stop at the "Old Susquehanna" gem stone mine.  At the mine you may get off , visit the mine and learn how to pan for gems.  Each passenger receives a bag of mine tiling's , a brief history of the mine and use of the  sluice to prospect for their very own gem stones they can bring home!

You may also purchase tickets the day of the event for all trains although we advise that you purchase your tickets in advance.

Trains to  and from the mine depart every hour.  Stay at the mine as little as an hour or as long as you like!

Experience the exploding mine shaft tour-- its a hoot!

GREAT ENTERTAINMENT!



The Delaware River Railroad Excursions is operated by the New York Susquehanna & Western Technical & Historical Society Inc, a 501 c (3) non profit corporation.
We are operated entirely by volunteers.


Monday, March 03, 2014

CSX CEO at the Harvard Business School conference on transportation

Received the following via email.

CSX CEO to Harvard Business School: CSX Meeting Growing Transportation
Demand, Strengthening American Competitiveness


JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - February 27, 2014 - America's freight railroads are investing in facilities, technology and programs to meet the country's growing consumption and transportation needs, CSX (NYSE: CSX) chairman, president and chief executive officer Michael Ward told an audience of more than 200 business and policy leaders at a Harvard Business School (HBS) panel today.

The panel, "What Moves U.S.," is part of the "America on the Move: Transportation and Infrastructure for the 21st Century" National Summit hosted this week at HBS. The panel included leaders from the public and private transportation sectors who explored issues related to balanced regulations; opportunities for connectivity, safety and sustainability; and the impact of transportation, particularly benefits and challenges for intermodal, as the global supply chain evolves.

"CSX is up to the challenge of meeting our customers' increasingly high expectations while creating jobs, rebuilding transportation infrastructure, and supporting global competitiveness for American businesses," Ward said. "The nation's freight railroads have literally transformed in the nearly 35 years since they were partially deregulated, but there's still much to do to fully realize the economic and environmental advantages of freight rail transportation."

To continue leveraging those advantages, CSX plans $2.3 billion in capital investments in 2014 as the company builds for long-term growth and continues to deliver value for customers and investors. CSX has invested more than $14 billion since 2005 in making its network the safest and most efficient means of transportation in the east. Long term, CSX plans to invest 16 to 17 percent of revenue into the business each year - a combination of investments in core infrastructure and assets with strategic capital to support profitable growth - plus an overlay for the positive train control system.

CSX investment in 2014 and beyond will support the company's intermodal business, a major growth driver based on the environmental and efficiency benefits of connecting ports with inland consumption centers while taking long-haul trucks off of America's congested highways. It is estimated that approximately 9 million truckloads in the Eastern U.S. are candidates for conversion to intermodal rail service. Priorities for CSX in 2014 include the construction of new facilities in Florida and Canada, and expansions of other facilities across the network.

Today, more than 90 percent of CSX intermodal traffic travels over double-stack cleared routes, which can carry double the freight on the same number of rail cars. That number will rise to the mid-90s in the next several years when CSX completes the National Gateway, the company's public-private partnership designed to increase the flow of freight between mid-Atlantic ports and Midwestern consumption centers via double-stack intermodal service.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

Contact:
Melanie Cost
904-359-1702

Sunday, March 02, 2014

Foreign power on the LEHL in Bound Brook, NJ

Following is a picture of BNSF and CP locomotives on a train in Bound Brook, NJ on 2-23-14.  Photo taken by Robyn Miller who is the wife of George Miller and mother of “train nut – 7 yr old” Georgie, all good customers of The Big Little Railroad Shop.  The LEHL is the former Lehigh Valley RR mainline through New Jersey, and is now part of Norfolk Southern.  Strictly speaking, the LEHL in Bound Brook is part of Conrail Shared Assets.




Saturday, March 01, 2014

NS 1066 - NYC heritage unit in New Jersey

Here are some photos of NS 1066, the New York Central heritage unit taken in Hillsborough, NJ, on 2-23-14 by George Miller, one of our customers.








CSX J&L Tunnel Project Earns Two Engineering Awards

Received the following via email. 

CSX J&L Tunnel Project Earns Two Engineering Awards

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - February 25, 2014 - CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) today announced that its J&L Tunnel Modification Project in Pittsburgh has won the Project of the Year Award from the Engineers' Society of Western Pennsylvania (ESWP) and the Diamond Award for Engineering Excellence from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania (ACEC/PA). These awards recognize the J&L Tunnel Project's safe completion, sustainability, cost-effectiveness and community benefits.

Completed in late 2013, the J&L Tunnel Project increased the vertical clearance of a 130-year-old tunnel running through Pittsburgh's SouthSide Works, a mixed-use residential and commercial development. CSX worked closely with public officials, local businesses and residents to minimize noise and disruption during construction. Upon completion of the tunnel work, CSX restored trees and plantings, and invested in landscaping improvements which left the overlying Tunnel Park a more usable recreational space.

"The J&L Tunnel Project is a great example of CSX's commitment to invest in infrastructure that supports American businesses and growth while respecting the communities in which we operate," said Randy Cheetham, regional vice president, CSX Transportation. "We have a long history in the Pittsburgh community, and are proud to invest here to keep the Pittsburgh region moving for many years to come."

The J&L Tunnel Project is part of CSX's National Gateway, a public-private partnership to create a double-stack freight rail corridor between Mid-Atlantic seaports and the Midwest.  Through the National Gateway, CSX continues to invest in infrastructure projects that support expected increases in intermodal freight rail traffic.

In Pittsburgh, CSX recently unveiled a $50 million proposal to redevelop the former Pittsburgh & Lake Erie (P&LE) Railroad Yard in McKees Rocks and Stowe Township into a new intermodal rail facility. In Washington, D.C., CSX is working closely with local and federal authorities to evaluate alternatives for the more than 100-year-old Virginia Avenue Tunnel, a major chokepoint on the nation's rail network.

The J&L Tunnel was constructed in the 1880s as part of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad line to allow trains beneath the former J&L Steel Company's Pittsburgh Works Southside facility. Today, the tunnel is an important component of CSX's freight rail infrastructure and a critical transportation link for the Pittsburgh regional economy.

The ESWP Project of the Year Award aims to advance the professions of engineering, architecture and applied sciences through its activities and commitment to public service, recognizing four exemplary projects across the state each year. The J&L Tunnel Project earned the award in the Commercial category for its safety, cost-effectiveness, and ability to deliver long-term economic benefits to the local community. The Diamond Awards for Engineering Excellence from the ACEC/PA celebrates the achievements of member firms who have demonstrated innovation, a commitment to sustainable practices, economic value and superior client service.

About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).