Amtrak’s Borealis train service, connecting St. Paul and Chicago, has reached a remarkable milestone, exceeding 100,000 passengers in just six months. This success highlights the growing demand for reliable and efficient intercity travel options, and underscores the strength of the partnerships between Amtrak and the transportation departments of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
Unifor, Canada’s largest private-sector union, is demanding Canadian National Railway (CN) prioritize the proper management of its rail infrastructure to ensure the safe and efficient operation of VIA Rail’s passenger services. The union criticizes CN’s lack of collaboration with passenger rail operators, highlighting recent speed restrictions causing delays and safety concerns.
VIA Rail Canada has unveiled a distinctive yellow train, named ‘Lumi,’ as part of its new fleet for the Québec City-Windsor corridor. Lumi, the sole train with this unique design, is a symbol of VIA Rail’s commitment to modernization and innovation in passenger rail travel. It pays homage to the iconic Turbo Train while embracing a modern aesthetic, offering passengers an exceptional onboard experience.
The Alberta government has announced a comprehensive 15-year Passenger Rail Master Plan, outlining ambitious plans to expand passenger rail services across the province. The plan envisions a modern and efficient rail network, connecting major cities and regional destinations, with a focus on commuter lines and intercity travel. To facilitate this expansion, the plan includes the establishment of a Crown corporation modeled after Ontario’s Metrolinx to oversee infrastructure development, operations, and future expansion.
During a meeting with state transportation officials, Congressman Richard Neal declared that establishing an east-west passenger rail line is the region’s top economic development priority. This initiative aims to connect western and central Massachusetts to Boston without the traffic congestion of the Massachusetts Turnpike. The project includes track improvements and the construction of a park-and-ride station in Palmer.
