Stadtler named as first executive director of Virginia Passenger Rail Authority
Donald A. (DJ) Stadtler Jr. has been named as the first executive director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, the agency established by the state legislature in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand passenger and commuter rail service in the state. Gov. Ralph Northam announced the appointment on Friday. Stadler was previously at Amtrak, where his 12 years included stints as chief financial officer, chief operations officer, and chief administrative officer. “DJ Stadtler’s expertise includes operational excellence, strategic vision, and extensive experience partnering with host railroads CSX and Norfolk Southern,” Secretary of Transportation Shannon Valentine said in a press release. “His leadership will create a great opportunity for the Commonwealth to continue its focus on customer service, safety, and performance as we unlock the potential of rail in Virginia.”
Sound Transit sets Oct. 2 opening for Northgate light rail extension
Sound Transit’s Northgate Link project, a 4.3-mile, three-station northern extension of the existing Link light rail service, will open Oct. 2, the transit agency announced. The addition will include underground stations for the University District and Roosevelt, and an elevated station at Northgate, creating 14-minute service from Northgate to downtown Seattle. Construction began in 2012, with work on twin 3.5-mile tunnels beginning in 2014. KOMO reports the project had a base budget of $1.9 billion. Test trains have been operating on the route since January.
NTSB to investigate death of BNSF employee in Missouri
The National Transportation Safety Board announced it is sending two investigators to Louisiana, Mo., to investigate a train car movement that killed a BNSF employee. The Associated Press reports Buddy Strieker, 56, of Hannibal, Mo., a conductor who had worked for the railroad for more than 24 years, died in the Wednesday accident at a shipper’s facility. BNSF spokeswoman Amy Casas said the company could not provide details because the death is under investigation.
As a retired BNSF clerk from Minneapolis, I am saddened by the death of Mr. Stieker of Hannibal. God Bless his family.