Rail Roundup: May 6–12, 2025
From labor agreements to infrastructure updates, here’s the latest in the railroad industry.
CSX and BLET Reach Tentative 5-Year Agreement
CSX Corporation has announced a tentative five-year contract agreement with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), covering approximately 3,400 locomotive engineers. The deal includes competitive pay, enhanced health care benefits, and changes in work rules aimed at creating more predictable assignments and improving overall quality of life for employees. This agreement still requires ratification by BLET members.
Published: May 9, 2025
Reuters: Read more
Amtrak Announces Job Cuts Amid Financial Restructuring
Amtrak, the U.S. passenger railroad, announced it is eliminating 450 positions and implementing other cost-cutting measures to reduce annual expenditures by $100 million amid uncertain future congressional support. This move follows the forced resignation of CEO Stephen Gardner in March by the White House under President Donald Trump, with Amtrak President Roger Harris currently overseeing operations.
Published: May 7, 2025
Reuters: Read more
Gorakhpur-Bengaluru Summer Special Train Service Announced
To accommodate the increased travel demand during the summer season, the North Eastern Railway (NER) has announced a special train service between Gorakhpur and Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal in Bengaluru. The train, numbered 06529/06530, will make three round trips, departing from Bengaluru on May 12, 19, and 26, and returning from Gorakhpur on May 16, 23, and 30.
Published: May 12, 2025
The Times of India: Read more
Vehicle Stuck on Tracks in Connecticut Leads to Arrest
On the morning of May 7, 2025, Connecticut State Police responded to a report of a vehicle stuck on the railroad tracks near Wilsonville Road in Thompson. Troop D personnel were dispatched to the scene at approximately 6:25 a.m. The vehicle was successfully removed from the tracks, preventing any reported accidents. Police confirmed that at least one individual was arrested in connection to the incident.
Published: May 7, 2025
CT Insider: Read more
Tools & Tips
Stay ahead with the latest tools and maintenance strategies in the rail industry.
Battery-Powered Railroad Tools Enhance Efficiency
Focused Technology Solutions offers a range of battery-powered tools designed for railroad maintenance, including the SpikeEase and DrillEase. These tools aim to improve safety and efficiency in track maintenance operations.
Accessed: May 12, 2025
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Fun Fact
Did you know? The longest railway tunnel in the world is the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland, stretching 57.1 kilometers (35.5 miles) and running through the Swiss Alps. It opened on June 1, 2016, and significantly reduces travel time across the region.
Join the Conversation!
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this week’s developments. How do these changes impact your role in the railroad industry? Share your insights and experiences with us!