ASLRRA honors 346 railroads for safety with Jake Awards
The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association has honored 346 member railroads with its “Jake Awards,” recognizing safety performance above the industry average in 2020. Of those, 316 will be honored “with distinction” for injury-free performance based on Federal Railroad Administration standards. The honorees include 19 railroads which received the President’s Safety Award, for the railroads in four ASLRRA regions which had the lowest reportable injury rates as measured within five man-hour categories. “Our member railroads are focused not only on compliance, but on creating a strong safety culture where each employee feels accountable for safety, day in and day out,” ASLRRA President Chuck Baker said in a press release, which also includes the President’s Award winners. “This year ASLRRA member railroads reduced their injury rate by 10%, significantly outpacing the overall industry decline of 8% in an impressive year for railroad safety.” The full list of Jake Award winners is here, with the list of winners with distinction here.
Radford joins short line association in congressional affairs role
Zachary M. Radford has joined the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association as assistant vice president of congressional affairs. He will work with the association staff and the member short line railroads to pursue legislative support for issues facing short lines, including infrastructure grant programs and surface transportation and tax policy. “Zach brings significant transportation legislative experience that will serve the Association and its members well – and immediately – as Congress works to bring a transportation or broader infrastructure bill to the President’s desk,” ASLRRA President Chuck Baker said in a press release.
Metra expands Family Fares program for the summer
Chicago-area commuter railroad Metra is expanding its Family Fares program for the summer, allowing up to three children ages 11 and under to ride with an adult through Labor Day. “Traveling on our trains is a terrific opportunity to spend time together as a family without having to worry about traffic and parking,” Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski said in a press release. “Plus, our weekend pass options make My Metra a real bargain. Making fares easy and affordable are just another way we can be My Metra for our riders.” More information is available here.
