COVID-19 takes a heavy toll on railroading worldwide

Trains with a "mask" design on front

The approach with which most nations addressed the spread of the coronavirus — one of regional and national lockdowns, and border closures — took a heavy toll on rail systems around the world. The pattern began after the COVID-19 virus was first detected in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Most rail traffic in China, especially […]

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Preservation’s overlooked stories

Train pulled up to the platform

By: Jim Wrinn News in the preservation world wasn’t entirely about COVID-19. There were other significant stories: — Wisconsin Great Northern purchases and begins the restoration of the Mark Twain Zephyr trainset. The long-neglected train will have a new life in northern Wisconsin. — Kentucky Steam expands: The home of leased Chesapeake & Ohio 2-8-4 […]

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iCon Infrastructure becomes 40% partner in Iowa Interstate

Train passing over a bridge

PITTSBURGH — iCon infrastructure is becoming a 40% partner in Iowa Interstate Railroad, a move majority owner Railroad Development Corp. of says positions the regional railroad as “a platform for growth.” “RDC’s business model is based on partnerships, a model that originates from the business acumen of my father, Henry Posner Jr,” Railroad Development Corp. […]

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International rail’s overlooked stories

A train in the station

Notable developments that may not received their due because of the pandemic: Plans were announced or trials began for automated trains, especially in Europe While multiple subway and airport people-mover systems around the world use driverless trains, mainline operation without drivers has until now been restricted to Western Australia, where heavy iron ore trains operate […]

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