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# GoRail

Telling the local story of freight rail — stronger economies, more jobs and cleaner skies.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://gorail.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Blog

- [Op-ed: Don’t let needless regulation slow down rail commerce](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-dont-let-needless-regulation-slow-down-rail-commerce) - Dallas, TX — Chris Wallace, president and CEO of the North Texas Commission, discusses rail safety policy in a May 31 op-ed for the Dallas Morning News. "The Railroad Safety Act of 2023 is on a fast track in the U.S. Congress and was recently referred from the Senate Commerce Committee. While well-meaning, some of
- [Inaugural Grants to Address 400 Rail Crossings](https://gorail.org/safety/inaugural-grants-to-address-400-rail-crossings) - More than 400 at-grade crossings across 32 states will be addressed in the inaugural funding round of the Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) Grant Program, the Federal Railroad Administration announced on June 5. The program, created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will award $570 million to 63 different projects to close, separate, or improve rail crossings.
- [Class I Railroads Celebrate America's 250th](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/class-i-railroads-celebrate-americas-250th) - America's Class I railroads are marking the nation's 250th anniversary with patriotic locomotives honoring history, heritage, and the future of freight rail.
- [Rail Champions Launches Modern Train Emoji Campaign](https://gorail.org/advocacy/rail-champions-launches-modern-train-emoji-campaign) - Rail Champions and GoRail are urging the Unicode Consortium to add a modern freight train emoji that better reflects today’s technology-driven rail industry.
- [New Poll: Americans Oppose Freight Rail Mandates That Could Raise Consumer Prices](https://gorail.org/regulation/new-poll-americans-oppose-freight-rail-mandates-that-could-raise-consumer-prices) - WASHINGTON, DC – As Congress prepares to consider new freight rail mandates as part of the upcoming surface transportation markup, a new national poll commissioned by GoRail finds voters overwhelmingly turn against additional regulations once they learn the proposals could raise shipping costs, worsen supply chain pressure, and increase prices on already-strained American consumers. The findings
- [Pathways to Safer Crossings: Key Webinar Takeaways](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/pathways-to-safer-crossings-key-webinar-takeaways) - GoRail webinar highlights FRA’s Railroad Crossing Elimination program, $1.1B in federal funding to improve rail crossing safety, reduce crashes and congestion.
- [Freight Rail’s Role in Cutting Carbon Emissions](https://gorail.org/sustainability/freight-rails-role-in-cutting-carbon-emissions) - Freight rail reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves fuel efficiency, and supports sustainable transportation with cleaner, low‑carbon freight shipping.
- [Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Freight Rail](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/surface-transportation-reauthorization-and-freight-rail) - Smart, data-driven rail policy will strengthen supply chains, improve safety, and support economic growth.
- [Rep. Burchett Tours Timken Facility in Tennessee](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/rep-burchett-tours-timken-facility-in-tennessee) - Rep. Tim Burchett (TN-02), member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and its railroad subcommittee, tours the Timken facility in Tennessee
- [Explainer: Automated Track Inspections](https://gorail.org/innovation/explainer-automated-track-inspections) - Washington, D.C. — Automated Track Inspection (ATI) technologies enable railroads to inspect hundreds of thousands of track miles each year, and to do it with greater accuracy, consistency, and frequency than visual inspections. Despite the safety advantages of ATI, the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has impeded its advancement by denying or delaying several test
- [#RailDay2026: Freight Rail’s Message to Congress](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/railday2026-freight-rails-message-to-congress) - Railroad Day 2026 brought rail leaders to Capitol Hill to educate Congress on 45G, safety grants, permitting reform, and keeping big trucks off our highways.
- [FRA Data Shows Major Rail Safety Gains in 2025](https://gorail.org/safety/fra-data-shows-major-rail-safety-gains-in-2025) - New FRA data shows freight rail safety reached record highs in 2025, with major accident rates falling thanks to investment, technology, and workforce training.
- [Washington Post Editorial Raises Questions About Railway Safety Act](https://gorail.org/safety/washington-post-editorial-raises-questions-about-railway-safety-act) - The Washington Post editorial board this week raised concerns about the proposed Railway Safety Act: “Legislators think they’re making trains safer. Evidence says otherwise.” The editorial board on March 8, 2026 wrote: "The White House is calling on Congress to include a railroad regulation bill as part of a larger transportation funding package this year... Just because
- [How Technology Is Transforming Freight Rail: Webinar Takeaways](https://gorail.org/innovation/how-technology-is-transforming-freight-rail-webinar-takeaways) - GoRail’s latest webinar brought together experts from across the industry to explain how innovations are improving safety, reliability, and customer experience.
- [These Three States Are Prioritizing Freight Rail](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/these-three-states-are-prioritizing-freight-rail) - These three state programs show that freight rail is a strategic economic infrastructure rather than a secondary transportation program.
- [No Snow Days: How Freight Rail Prepares for Winter](https://gorail.org/innovation/no-snow-days-how-freight-rail-prepares-for-winter) - Freight railroads prepare for snow, ice, and extreme cold long before the first storm is in the forecast with advanced technologies and innovative locomotives.
- [Building Better Rail Partnerships: Webinar Takeaways](https://gorail.org/public-private-partnerships/building-better-rail-partnerships-webinar-takeaways) - GoRail and NLC convened railroad public-affairs leaders to discuss community-rail collaboration, infrastructure planning, and local partnerships.
- [Navigating the National Railroad Partnership Program: Key Webinar Takeaways](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/navigating-national-railroad-partnership-program) - Guidance from FRA and industry experts on building strong NRP applications as communities pursue $5B for rail safety, mobility, and economic development.
- [New Rail Grant Opportunity: What Local Leaders Need to Know About the NRP Program](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/new-rail-grant-opportunity-what-local-leaders-need-to-know-about-the-nrpp-program) - The FRA’s new $5B NRPP grant funds grade crossing safety and passenger rail projects. Apply by Jan 7, 2026 with help from GoRail’s guide.
- [How Freight Rail Powers Your Thanksgiving Table](https://gorail.org/agriculture/how-freight-rail-powers-your-thanksgiving-table) - Freight rail moves the grain, food products, energy, and goods that make Thanksgiving possible. Explore the data behind how rail powers America’s holiday table.
- [Texas Steps Up: Bridging the Gaps in Rail Safety with a New Grade Separation Program](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/texas-steps-up-bridging-the-gaps-in-rail-safety-with-a-new-grade-separation-program) - Houston, TX — Across Texas, trains move the products that power our economy, but they also intersect thousands of local roads and streets, creating both opportunity and risk. While roughly half of crossings on Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)-maintained highways are already grade-separated, this is only the case for about 9% of crossings on county
- [Outlook from the Federal Frontlines of Freight Rail](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/outlook-from-the-federal-frontlines-of-freight-rail) - Washington, D.C. — At a moment when Washington is laying the groundwork for the next chapter in federal transportation policy, GoRail convened a timely conversation to decode what that means for freight rail and the communities it serves. “Signals from DC: The Federal Freight Rail Outlook,” brought together four top policy voices to provide community
- [Nuts & Bolts: What Those Letters on Railcars Actually Mean](https://gorail.org/nuts-bolts/nuts-bolts-what-those-letters-on-railcars-actually-mean) - Learn what railcar reporting marks are, who assigns them, and how these unique codes identify ownership and power the North American freight rail system.
- [Rail Safety Starts with You: An Interview with Operation Lifesaver’s Rachel Maleh](https://gorail.org/safety/interview-oli-rachel-maleh) - Next week marks the start of See Tracks? Think Train!® Week 2025 (Sept. 15–21), a national campaign to raise awareness about safety near railroad tracks.
- [Notes From The Field: Rail Policy in Utah](https://gorail.org/advocacy/notes-from-the-field-rail-policy-in-utah) - GoRail’s Utah site visit highlights rail’s role in sustainable freight, local policy wins, and new partnerships shaping transportation’s future.
- [Delaware Delegation Highlights Freight Rail’s Local Impact](https://gorail.org/advocacy/delaware-delegation-highlights-freight-rails-local-impact) - Delaware’s federal delegation toured Delmarva Central Railroad, highlighting freight rail’s role in jobs, safety, investment, and sustainable growth.
- [Houston Eyes Chicago CREATE’s Rail Safety Blueprint](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/houston-create-program) - Houston leaders look to Chicago’s CREATE model to modernize rail infrastructure, reduce delays, and improve safety through collaborative investment.
- [Insights from GoRail’s Economic Development Webinar ](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/economic-development-webinar) - Washington, DC — “Engage with the railroads early.” That was the refrain echoed throughout GoRail’s recent On Track for Growth: Leveraging Rail to Drive Economic Development webinar, which brought together experts from state agencies, railroads, and a regional economic development organization to share how local leaders can harness freight rail to spur economic opportunity. Held
- [State Lawmakers Experience Freight Rail Up Close in Indiana](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/state-lawmakers-experience-freight-rail-up-close-in-indiana) - GoRail welcomed 55 state legislators from 23 states for a policy discussion, reception, and tour at The Indiana Rail Road Company (INRD) on July 18.
- [Nuts & Bolts: What Rail Yards Actually Do](https://gorail.org/nuts-bolts/nuts-bolts-what-rail-yards-actually-do) - Discover how rail yards power freight logistics with smart tech, precision sorting, and efficiency—keeping goods moving across the U.S. every day.
- [Lancaster Rail Developments Spark Economic Momentum](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/lancaster-rail-developments-spark-economic-momentum) - Lancaster County is leveraging freight and passenger rail to boost jobs, tourism, and economic growth—revitalizing a legacy for a modern future.
- [Webinar Recap: Freight Rail’s Role in Greener Supply Chains](https://gorail.org/sustainability/webinar-recap-freight-rails-role-in-greener-supply-chains) - On World Environment Day, GoRail convened over 100 attendees for a webinar on how freight rail is cutting emissions & contributing to a more sustainable world.
- [Texas Launches Major Rail Crossing Safety Program](https://gorail.org/safety/texas-launches-major-rail-crossing-safety-program) - Texas is creating a major funding program to tackle one of transportation’s most persistent safety hazards: at-grade rail crossings.
- [Strengthening Supply Chains: CORCA Explained](https://gorail.org/intermodal/strengthening-supply-chains-corca-explained) - The CORCA Act aims to combat organized retail and cargo theft, protect supply chains, and boost freight security through bipartisan federal action.
- [On the Ground in D.C. — Railroad Day 2025](https://gorail.org/advocacy/on-the-ground-in-d-c-railroad-day-2025) - Railroad Day 2025 united rail advocates for 375+ Hill meetings to push policies that boost investment, safety, and sustainability in freight rail.
- [Rail Champions Speak: Essay Contest Highlights](https://gorail.org/advocacy/rail-champions-speak-essay-contest-highlights) - Announcing the 2025 Rail Champions Essay Contest winners—local voices sharing how freight rail powers jobs, clean air, and community growth.
- [Nuts & Bolts: The Track Switches That Power Rail](https://gorail.org/nuts-bolts/nuts-bolts-the-track-switches-that-power-rail) - Track switches may be small, but they keep freight rail moving. These vital mechanisms enable a flexible, high-capacity network that powers the economy.
- [New Report Underscores Massive Impact of U.S. Freight Rail](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/massive-impact-of-freight-rail) - Railroads drive the economy, supporting jobs, trade, investment, and public benefits, as shown in a new March study by the Association of American Railroads.
- [Historic $1.1 Billion in Rail Grants to Eliminate Crossings and Improve Safety Nationwide](https://gorail.org/safety/historic-1-1-billion-in-rail-grants-to-eliminate-crossings-and-improve-safety-nationwide) - Washington, D.C. — The second round of the Rail Crossing Elimination (RCE) grant program is making significant strides in enhancing rail safety, efficiency, and connectivity across the nation. With a historic $1.1 billion investment announced January 10, the program will fund 123 projects in 41 states, addressing over 1,000 at-grade highway-rail crossings. These projects focus
- [Creating Safe Quiet Zones: Key Webinar Takeaways](https://gorail.org/safety/creating-safe-quiet-zones-key-webinar-takeaways) - Railroad safety and noise mitigation are critical concerns for communities and industry stakeholders alike. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Train Horn Rule, issued in 2006, established a required routine for the sounding of locomotive horns around public crossings as a safety precaution. At the same time, FRA created a process for communities to designate "quiet
- [Shaping the Tracks Ahead: Election Takeaways and the Rail Policy Outlook](https://gorail.org/regulation/shaping-the-tracks-ahead-election-takeaways-and-the-rail-policy-outlook) - Washington, DC — While much about the 119th Congress is now known, there are still significant uncertainties regarding the infrastructure policy landscape. Here are several election takeaways, the current state of play surrounding transportation policy, and a closer look at railroads’ reauthorization priorities. Turnout and turnover: The 2024 elections saw the second highest voter turnout
- [For Northwest New Mexico, a New Rail Link Is Just Around the Corner](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/for-northwest-new-mexico-a-new-rail-link-is-just-around-the-corner) - The Four Corners region shared by Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah is known more for stunning landscapes and isolation than for rail access. Even in the early 20th century at the peak of American rail mileage, the closest rail link for this region lay in Farmington and Gallup along the Denver and Rio Grande
- [Rail Grants Roundup](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/rail-grants-round-up) - Four major federal grant programs in the last several months announced billions in funding for U.S. rail infrastructure. The grants address diverse needs, from high-speed passenger service to essential freight movements, reinforcing rail as a key pillar in America’s transportation and economic infrastructure. Here’s a closer look at recent rail grant news: — CRISI Program
- [Five Ways the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Impacts Railroads](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/five-ways-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-bill-impacts-railroads) - Washington, D.C. — President Biden this week signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), a momentous, bipartisan bill that will inject $1.2 trillion into fixing and improving U.S. roads, bridges, waterways, airports and other infrastructure systems, and reauthorizing surface transportation programs for the next five years. The policymakers who crafted the IIJA did not
- [N.Y. & Atlantic Railway Hosts U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito](https://gorail.org/safety/n-y-atlantic-railway-hosts-u-s-rep-anthony-desposito) - Member of House Committee of Transportation and Infrastructure toured Fresh Pond facility and discussed economic and environmental benefits of moving freight by rail. Glendale, NY — New York & Atlantic Railway (NYA), the region’s short-line rail freight line, recently hosted U.S. Representative Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04) at its Fresh Pond rail yard in Glendale. NYA President
- [New Campaign Unites Rail Champions Across America](https://gorail.org/advocacy/new-campaign-unites-rail-champions-across-america) - GoRail launches Rail Champions to give voice to those who recognize the vital role railroads play in connecting communities across America. Washington, DC — Rail Champions, a new grassroots movement dedicated to supporting railroading in America, is proud to announce its official launch. As a project of GoRail, Rail Champions brings together individuals across the
- [AAR Provides New Insight and New Index on Rail Traffic](https://gorail.org/intermodal/aar-provides-new-insight-and-new-index-on-rail-traffic) - Washington, DC — Gross domestic product. Consumer spending. Unemployment. Interest rates. These are the categories that come to mind when we assess the health of the economy. Each tells its own story—helping economists, reporters, policymakers, and the public predict where we’re headed and identify trends and opportunities. Add a new indicator to this list: the
- [Texas Officials Tour Rail Operations at Port of Corpus Christi](https://gorail.org/ports/texas-officials-tour-rail-operations-at-port-of-corpus-christi) - Corpus Christi, TX — Recently, local officials from the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Legislature, and the Corpus Christi area got to experience a side of their city not often seen by the public. GoRail, in conjunction with Watco and the Port of Corpus Christi hosted officials at the Texas Coastal Bend Railroad, which facilitates
- [Op-ed: Georgia needs to pay attention to California train rule](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-georgia-needs-to-pay-attention-to-california-train-rule) - Atlanta, GA — In an op-ed published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Georgia Transportation Alliance Executive Director Seth Millican outlined why a rail policy being considered by the Environmental Protection Agency would harm supply chains and work against Georgia's increasing reliance on rail: "Georgia Gov. Brian P. Kemp recently approved $1.5 billion in transportation funding as part of
- [Five Things to Know: What Railroads Are Doing About Climate Change](https://gorail.org/sustainability/five-things-to-know-what-railroads-are-doing-about-climate-change) - Washington, D.C. — America’s freight railroads are stepping up with innovative strategies aimed at reducing emissions and building climate-resilient infrastructure. For Earth Day 2024, here are five things to know about how railroads are meeting the challenge of climate change: 1. Freight railroads account for roughly 40% of U.S. long-distance freight volume—more than any other
- [Op-ed: Freight rail fuels Utah’s growth, sustainability and innovation](https://gorail.org/sustainability/op-ed-freight-rail-fuels-utahs-growth-sustainability-and-innovation) - Salt Lake City — In an op-ed for the Salt Lake Tribune, Ryan Starks, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, writes about rail's economic development impact across Utah: "We’re seeing rail play a role in expansion across Utah, from supporting unprecedented growth along the Wasatch Front and beyond. In Juab County, rail will
- [Op-ed: Don't put the brakes on rail freight's green future](https://gorail.org/sustainability/op-ed-dont-put-the-brakes-on-rail-freights-green-future) - Albany, NY — In an op-ed for the Albany Times Union, Joseph Alston of The Business Council of New York State writes: "As Gov. Hochul has said, “Sustained commerce is the lifeblood for our regional and state economy.” Rail should be considered a core tool and partner to the officials across our state implementing CLCPA. We have
- [Strides on Safety: Tracking Railroads' Commitments](https://gorail.org/safety/strides-on-safety-tracking-railroads-commitments) - Washington, D.C. — Following the derailment in East Palestine, Ohio early last year, railroads rapidly came together to develop a set of safety commitments informed by insight from the accident. These substantial and voluntary actions, undertaken without governmental intervention, will help prevent future incidents. While rail already has a strong safety record, both for employees
- [Congressman Derrick Van Orden Tours Local Stella-Jones Facility](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/congressman-derrick-van-orden-tours-local-stella-jones-corp-facility) - House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee member visits Stella-Jones’ railway tie manufacturing facility in Bangor, Wisconsin. Bangor, Wisconsin — U.S. Representative Derrick Van Orden joined officials from the Stella-Jones Corporation on Tuesday for a firsthand look at the operations of the company’s Wisconsin facility, which treats between 1-1.6 million railroad ties annually. Stella- Jones is a
- [Two Years of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law](https://gorail.org/public-private-partnerships/two-years-of-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law) - Washington, DC — November 15 marked the second anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which made over $850 billion in total investments available through 452 different funding areas. Two years along, here are some mile markers for the BIL: — We are 40% of the way through the law’s authorizing period. — Nearly 80%
- [Notes from the Field: Our Team in Action](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/notes-from-the-field-our-team-in-action) - Washington, D.C. — GoRail’s five state directors are in constant contact with local leaders across the nation to highlight the positive local impact of railroads—including the billions of dollars they invest each year to support safety, service, and the world’s best freight rail system. Their goal is to educate local leaders about the public benefits
- [Short Lines, Rail Infrastructure Projects Receive $1.4 Billion in Funding](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/short-lines-rail-infrastructure-projects-receive-1-4-billion-in-funding) - Washington, DC — The Federal Railroad Administration this week announced 70 projects across 35 states selected to receive funding through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, a competitive discretionary grant focused on freight and passenger rail infrastructure. CRISI is for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of freight and intercity
- [Crossing Grant Debrief and Advice for Applicants](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/crossing-grant-debrief-and-advice-for-applicants) - At the end of June, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced 63 projects in 32 states receiving funding in the initial round of the Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) grant. Over five years, the grant program will provide some $3.5 billion in funding to projects that eliminate or enhance crossings, with an additional $2.5 billion in
- [Rail Business: The Trends We’re Watching](https://gorail.org/workforce/rail-business-the-trends-were-watching) - The unprecedented supply chain challenges of 2021 and 2022 have abated and the 24/7 freight rail network is as busy as ever, preparing to meet transportation demands for fall harvest and the holiday shopping season. We’ve taken a look at some of the trends currently driving freight rail. Demand is Down, But Rail Service is
- [Explainer: The Costs of Heavier Big Rigs](https://gorail.org/truck-size-and-weight/explainer-the-costs-of-heavier-big-rigs) - Most of the damage to U.S. roads and bridges comes not from passenger cars but from heavy trucks, with the most common big rig weighing in at 80,000 pounds — almost as much as a Boeing 737. At this weight, heavy trucks only pay for about 80% of their damage to roads and bridges, with
- [Expanding AskRail Access to ECCs](https://gorail.org/safety/expanding-askrail-access-to-eccs) - Washington, D.C. — U.S. freight railroads came together in 2014 to launch AskRail, an innovative mobile app that enables first responders to view the contents of a train or see if a railcar is carrying hazmat. Since then, nearly 50,000 emergency personnel in 49 states have downloaded the tool. Now railroads are trying to expand
- [Railroads Make New Safety Commitments](https://gorail.org/safety/railroads-make-new-safety-commitments) - Washington, DC — Rail safety is at the political and public forefront following the East Palestine derailment in February. For railroads, safety is always top of mind—priority number one. Across all aspects of operations, rail carriers routinely exceed federal safety mandates, and they’ve also consistently called for tougher safety standards like tank car improvements. The
- [Nuts & Bolts: Why is there an engine in the middle of that train?](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/nuts-bolts-why-is-there-an-engine-in-the-middle-of-that-train) - Or, the Dynamic Benefits of Distributed Power. WASHINGTON, D.C. — When you spot a train at a crossing or pass one running along the highway, sometimes you’ll see an extra locomotive (i.e. engine) or two among the colorful boxcars, hoppers, autoracks and reefers. Do railroads use locomotives to transport… other locomotives? Sometimes, yes, but more
- [Rail Advocates Zoom in to Railroad Day 2021](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/rail-advocates-zoom-in-to-railroad-day-2021) - Washington, D.C. — Railroad Day on Capitol Hill looked a little different this year. One day became two (April 13-14). House and Senate offices were replaced with Zoom rooms (and Zoom backgrounds). Group photos were staged via screenshot (here, here, here, and here) rather than in narrow offices or hallways. “You’re on mute” became the
- [Second International Rail Bridge to Keep Laredo Bustling](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/second-international-rail-bridge-to-keep-laredo-bustling) - Houston, TX — With a network stretching across North America, freight rail has long been a crucial connector for American international trade. Indeed, roughly half of rail intermodal volume is directly associated with international trade and over a third of rail revenue is directly linked with that trade. And in Laredo, Texas, the busiest U.S.
- [Labor Negotiations Update: Rail Shutdown Still Possible](https://gorail.org/workforce/labor-negotiations-update-rail-shutdown-still-possible) - Washington, D.C. — As labor negotiations were reaching an inflection point in August, we brought you an explainer piece breaking down what was happening and the stakes of a nationwide rail shutdown. The good news is that railroads and rail unions, with the assistance of the White House, were able to reach an agreement in
- [Inland Ports: Key Freight Rail Partners](https://gorail.org/ports/inland-ports-key-freight-rail-partners) - Carson City, NV — Ports have always been more than simply locations where ships are loaded and unloaded. They are places where shipments and containers are received, processed through customs, inspected, sorted, and transferred to rail or trucks for delivery to end users and customers. During the 1990s, freight transport shifted inland due to congestion,
- [New Grant Aims to Enhance Safety at Rail Crossings](https://gorail.org/funding-opportunities/new-crossing-grant) - Washington, D.C. — “This is really about the communities,” said Ryan Arbuckle of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) at a recent listening session on the agency’s newest funding opportunity, a grant for grade crossing projects to improve the safety and mobility of people and goods. The new Grade Crossing Elimination Program was created by the
- [Rail Safety Myths Debunked](https://gorail.org/safety/rail-safety-myths-debunked) - Washington, D.C. — Today marks the start of Rail Safety Week 2022 (Sept. 19-25), a national event to raise awareness about safety near railroad tracks. It’s led by Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) in partnership with railroads, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and state and local law enforcement and safety organizations. Across America, a person or
- [Explainer: Where Rail Labor Negotiations Stand](https://gorail.org/workforce/explainer-where-rail-labor-negotiations-stand) - Washington, D.C. — You may have seen news reports on rail labor negotiations—and most recently the announcement of recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) appointed by the Biden administration. We wanted to provide a quick run-down of recent developments and the implications of negotiations for the U.S. rail network. PEB recommendations: On Tuesday, August
- [GoRail Commends FRA on Release of Railroad Crossing NOFO](https://gorail.org/safety/gorail-commends-fra-on-release-of-railroad-crossing-nofo) - Washington, D.C. — Today the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) officially released the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Railroad Crossing Elimination Program, a newly created grant for crossing projects that improve the safety and mobility of people and goods. The program, with $3 billion in appropriated funding, including over $573 million for FY22, is open to
- [In Pictures: Working on the Nickel Plate Road](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/in-pictures-working-on-the-nickel-plate-road) - Washington, D.C. — The Nickel Plate Road — officially the New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad Company — had "a storied 83-year existence," starting with one road in 1882 and ending, after a 1964 merger with the Norfolk & Western Railway, as a four-district Midwest powerhouse. One of the Nickel Plate's many stops was Fort Wayne, Indiana, the home base for my great-grandfather
- [Intermodal Rail Connections Getting a Boost in Alabama](https://gorail.org/intermodal/intermodal-rail-connections-getting-a-boost-in-alabama) - Mobile, AL — Any recent visitor to the Port of Mobile—Alabama’s only seaport and one that boasts access to nine different freight railroads—would be hard-pressed to find any signs of freight slowdowns or supply chain disruptions. In February the port had a boom month, with intermodal rail transfers growing 12.4% over the previous month and
- [STB to Consider Forced Access at March Hearing](https://gorail.org/regulation/stb-to-consider-forced-access-at-march-hearing) - The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB), which oversees the economic regulation of freight railroads, is considering a rule that would mandate reciprocal switching among freight railroads. They will hold a hearing on March 15-16 to examine this policy of forced access. Why It Matters Forced access would compromise the efficiency of the rail network and
- [Senator Tom Carper Tours Delmarva Central Railroad](https://gorail.org/agriculture/senator-tom-carper-tours-delmarva-central-railroad) - Environment and Public Works Committee Chair visits Delmarva Central Railroad’s Seaford transload facility and swing bridge in Sussex County. Seaford, Delaware — U.S. Senator Tom Carper joined officials from the Delmarva Central Railroad (DCR) on Friday for a firsthand look at the operations of the Delaware-based short line railroad, which operates 188 miles of track
- [Four Un-BOO-lievable Facts About Trains](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/four-un-boo-lievable-facts-about-trains) - Washington, DC — In the spirit of Halloween, we decided to compile a few spook-tacular facts about America's freight railroads. 1). The rails have hidden eyes and ears. Sounds spooky right? But these eyes and ears are there to detect the tiny flaws — imperceptible to the human eye — that can lead to accidents. The "eyes"
- [Howard Street Tunnel Expansion to Help Port of Baltimore Double Capacity](https://gorail.org/intermodal/howard-street-tunnel-expansion-to-help-port-of-baltimore-double-capacity) - Baltimore, MD — This summer the expansion of the Howard Tunnel in Baltimore took another important step forward when it received its final environmental approval, paving the way for construction to begin later this year. The project will revamp the 126-year-old tunnel to allow room for trains with double-stacked containers traveling to and from the
- [Explainer: Railroads and the Supply Chain](https://gorail.org/ports/explainer-railroads-and-the-supply-chain) - “Rail is stepping up, ready to do its part. We've been operating 24/7 for some time. We've got capacity. We want to move freight. So we're prepared to do our part to keep things moving through peak season.” — Ian Jefferies, president and CEO of the Association of American Railroads, on Yahoo Finance following the October
- [Ford’s New Carbon Neutral Megasites to be Rail-Served](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/fords-new-carbon-neutral-megasites-to-be-rail-served) - The major announcement Tuesday from Ford Motor Company that it will invest $11.4 billion into the creation of two new mega campuses in Tennessee and Kentucky is a huge boon for the state and local economies. It also demonstrates how freight rail access is a key factor for manufacturers as they pursue sustainable and innovative
- [Rail Safety By The Numbers](https://gorail.org/safety/rail-safety-week-by-the-numbers) - Washington, D.C. — It’s once again September, a good time to focus on public safety as kids head back to school and more drivers crowd the roads post summer-vacation. This week marks U.S. Rail Safety Week (Sept. 20-26), a national event to raise awareness about safety near railroad tracks. It’s led by Operation Lifesaver, Inc.
- [Local Leaders Urge Buttigieg, Oberman and Bose to Preserve Healthy Freight Railroads](https://gorail.org/regulation/local-leaders-urge-buttigieg-oberman-and-bose-to-preserve-healthy-freight-railroads) - Thirty-one rail advocates across 25 states applaud Biden Administration for rail focus while urging officials to recognize the economic and environmental benefits of freight rail. Washington, D.C. — As infrastructure legislation progresses through Congress, dozens of local leaders issued a letter this week to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Surface Transportation Board Chairman Martin
- [Debunking "Forced Access"](https://gorail.org/regulation/debunking-forced-access) - Washington, D.C. — The Biden Administration on July 9 issued an Executive Order that included language directing railroads’ economic regulator, the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB), to consider issuing a rule mandating reciprocal switching among railroads, among other regulations. Perhaps more accurately referred to as “forced access,” such a rule would compel railroads to open their privately
- [Nuts & Bolts: What’s Under the Train?](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/nuts-bolts-whats-under-the-train) - At nearly 140,000 miles, the North American rail network has enough track to circle the earth nearly six times. It’s a vast, interconnected track system that carries 40% of intercity freight and one-third of U.S. exports. These rails—quite literally the foundation on which so much of the American economy moves—are integral to the safety and
- [Infrastructure Legislation and Support for Rail Heat up This Summer](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/infrastructure-legislation-and-support-for-rail-heat-up-this-summer) - Two U.S. congressional committees have advanced dramatically different transportation bills in recent weeks as rail advocates continue their push to ensure the final bill is pro-rail. The House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee voted June 9 on a mostly party-line basis (38-26) to approve a bill to reauthorize surface transportation programs. While the bill includes
- [Focus on Rail Infrastructure: Our Favorite Projects](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/focus-on-rail-infrastructure-our-favorite-projects) - If you’ve ever read our blog, you might be familiar with some of the big rail infrastructure stats—say, for example, the length of the North American rail network (nearly 140,000 track miles) or the total number of freight railroads across the U.S. (632). Maybe your favorite rail infrastructure fact is that each train takes hundreds
- [Nuts & Bolts: Idle-Reduction Technology](https://gorail.org/sustainability/nuts-bolts-idle-reduction-technology) - Palo Alto, CA — Freight railroads are constantly working to be even safer and more efficient – from operating practices to new technologies, advancements in railroading help keep freight railroads the safest, most affordable and most efficient way to move freight over land. While these advancements are good for companies and consumers, they’re also good
- [Getting Greener all the Time: Five Amazing Rail Sustainability Stats](https://gorail.org/sustainability/getting-greener-all-the-time) - Washington, D.C. — Some Earth Day trivia: What weighs 4,000 tons, carries the load of several hundred trucks, and is still the greenest way to move freight over land? A freight train, of course. Given rail’s scale of movement and the size of the U.S., it makes sense that trains would be the most efficient
- [California’s Green Trains](https://gorail.org/sustainability/californias-green-trains) - Five Amazing Rail Sustainability Facts Los Angeles, CA — What weighs 4,000 tons, carries the load of several hundred trucks, and is still the greenest way to move freight over land? A freight train, of course. Given rail’s scale of movement and the size of the U.S., it makes sense that trains would be the most efficient
- [Organizing in a Pandemic](https://gorail.org/advocacy/organizing-in-a-pandemic) - Washington, D.C. — Like so many organizations across the country, GoRail had to adapt in the face of the pandemic. Unable to rely on in-person meetings—the bread-and-butter of organizing and building relationships—the GoRail team made the most of both new tools and tried-and-true tactics to connect with local leaders in communities across the country. And
- [Op-ed: A 'Stagger'ing bit of legislation](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-a-staggering-bit-of-legislation) - Eugene, OR — U.S. freight railroads today should serve as an example to policymakers of what can be accomplished through smart regulation, writes Kevin Mannix, director of the Oregon Shipping Group, in a recent op-ed for The Register-Guard. Mannix, who previously served in both the Oregon Senate and House of Representatives, discusses the local economic impact
- [Op-ed: Look back 40 years for blueprint to solve today’s problems](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-look-back-40-years-for-blueprint-to-solve-todays-problems) - Las Vegas, NV — Las Vegas city councilman Brian Knudsen discussed the economic impact of freight rail in Nevada and emphasized the importance of balanced rail regulations in an op-ed for the Las Vegas Sun. He writes: "Much like the powerhouse tourism economies in Las Vegas and across Nevada, freight railroads generate economic impact —
- [Op-ed: Why foundational rail policy pays dividends today](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-why-foundational-rail-policy-pays-dividends-today) - Houston, TX — Federal officials and regulators should continue the balanced policies that have made freight railroads such reliable partners for the Texas economy, writes Tiffany Melvin, president of North American Strategy for Competitiveness Inc., in a recent op-ed for the Houston Business Journal. She writes: "In Texas, our 52 freight railroads operate over 10,506
- [Rail Policy Landscape in the 117th Congress](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/rail-policy-landscape-in-the-117th-congress) - Washington, D.C. — As the 117th Congress dives into its work—and committee assignments and leadership roles have been finalized—we now know more about the key congressional players for rail policy. Here’s a quick look at some of those changes, the new faces, and a refresher on some of the policy issues on our radar. House
- [Op-ed: Keep rail resurgence going strong](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-keep-rail-resurgence-going-strong) - Cook County, IL —Cook County Commissioner Peter N. Silvestri discusses the merits of rail deregulation for the Chicagoland area in a new op-ed for the Daily Herald. "Lost last fall amid the run-up to the election was the 40th anniversary of the Staggers Act, a landmark federal law with an especially strong connection to Chicago,
- [Op-ed: Freight rail investments a reliable constant for Hudson Valley economy](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-freight-rail-investments-a-reliable-constant-for-hudson-valley-economy) - Middletown, NY — Orange County Partnership President and CEO Maureen Halahan underscored the role of freight rail in moving New York's economy in a recent op-ed for the Times Herald-Record. As a signatory on group letter urging Congress and policymakers to preserve a balanced approach to freight rail policy, Ms. Halahan pointed to the economic impact
- [Three Reasons to Love America’s Freight Trains](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/three-reasons-to-love-americas-freight-trains) - Washington, D.C. — The allure of railroading in America is undeniable. It’s an intrinsic part of our nation’s history and identity—steel wheels on steel rail symbolizing progress, connection, and the American ethos. 1. They’re chugging along in the background 24/7 to power our daily lives. Rail is a constant presence in American life, from the
- [Election Recap: Historic Turnout; Smaller Margins](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/historic-turnout-small-changes-2020-election-recap) - Washington, D.C. — Though Election Day is behind us, there are still significant question marks about what to expect from the new Administration and the new Congress in 2021. Here’s a look at what we know so far. A LOT of people voted. More Americans voted in 2020 than have done so in any election
- [Op-ed: Rail Act’s Cooperation: Balance Worth Preserving — and Learning From](https://gorail.org/public-private-partnerships/op-ed-rail-acts-cooperation-balance-worth-preserving-and-learning-from) - Washington, D.C. — Rob Hooper, President & CEO of the Northern Nevada Development Authority along with Keith Martin Executive VP of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Rafael E. Ortega commissioner and Chair of the Regional Rail Authority of Ramsey County, Minnesota expressed their support for freight rail in an op-ed for Inside Sources. The
- [Railroad Partner Streamlines Intermodal Shipping](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/railroad-partner-streamlines-intermodal-shipping) - Savannah, GA — Better connectivity and access to Georgia ports is the goal for Denver-based logistics solutions company OmniTRAX’s Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub. The 2,700-acre industrial park provides customers access to two Class I railroads, CSX and Norfolk Southern. Located just off I-95 near the Port of Savannah, the fastest-growing and fourth-largest port in the
- [Community, Business and Policy Leaders Laud Historic Rail Legislation on 40th Anniversary](https://gorail.org/regulation/leaders-laud-historic-rail-legislation-on-40th-anniversary) - Group Letter Featuring Signatories from 46 States Calls on Policymakers to Preserve Regulatory Balance for Freight Railroads and Customers Washington, D.C. — More than 1000 local and national leaders commemorated the 40th anniversary of the landmark Staggers Rail Act today in a letter sent to the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) and Congress celebrating four
- [Celebrating #Staggers40: Why the Landmark Rail Policy Matters Today](https://gorail.org/regulation/celebrating-staggers40) - Washington, D.C. — If you’re an infrastructure and transportation policy wonk, you may have heard of the Staggers Rail Act of 1980—the foundational piece of federal legislation that saved freight railroads from ruin four decades ago and catalyzed a U.S. freight rail renaissance that continues today. On the other hand, the casual railfan or observer
- [The Man Behind the Staggers Act: A Conversation with Margaret Staggers](https://gorail.org/regulation/the-man-behind-the-staggers-act) - Charleston, W.V. — This year marks the 40th anniversary of the passage of a policy critical to freight railroads. Named for its author Rep. Harley Staggers of West Virginia, the Staggers Rail Act of 1980 remains one of the most successful, bipartisan pieces of legislation enacted by Congress. While Rep. Staggers, who served in Congress
- [Nuts & Bolts: Railcar Round-Up](https://gorail.org/innovation/nuts-bolts-railcar-round-up) - What Does A Train Consist Of? Washington, D.C. —While most people can identify the locomotive on a train, dedicated railfans have the ability to scout a train and determine the commodities in each passing railcar just by looking at the shape of the car. How do they know? For starters, perhaps the most literal train
- [The Nuts & Bolts of Modern Rail](https://gorail.org/nuts-bolts/the-nuts-bolts-of-modern-rail) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — As rail advocates, we sometimes forget that not everyone is well-versed with the technical side of railroads—the nuts and bolts of rail infrastructure, technology and innovation. You might not eagerly await your latest issues of Trains, Railway Age or Progressive Railroading like we do. To that end, we’re announcing a new “Nuts
- [Focus on Infrastructure: Seven Feats of Freight Rail Engineering](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/focus-on-infrastructure-seven-feats-of-freight-rail-engineering) - Alexandria, VA — Railroading is one of America’s oldest and best infrastructure stories, from the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869 to the numerous engineering marvels that spread across the nationwide rail network today. These infrastructure achievements are not only admirable for their engineering, but also for the way they connected a growing nation
- [Op-ed: Tried and True Will Help Lead Recovery](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/op-ed-tried-and-true-will-help-lead-recovery) - New York, NY — John T. Evers, senior director of government affairs at The Business Council of New York State, applauded the supply chain for keeping the country moving during the pandemic in an August op-ed for Empire Report. Evers spoke directly to the continued effort made by railroads in the past six months to proudly
- [Rail Safety Precautions That Save Lives](https://gorail.org/safety/rail-safety-precautions-that-save-lives) - Washington, D.C. — During Rail Safety Week, an annual event led by Operation Lifesaver taking place this year from September 21-27, we work to educate and spread awareness about the importance of taking precautions around trains. Safety is railroads’ number one commitment and they invest heavily year after year to augment safety across the U.S.
- [Advocacy Corner: Why Citizen Engagement Matters](https://gorail.org/advocacy/advocacy-corner-why-citizen-engagement-matters) - Washington, D.C. — While constituents might view Capitol Hill with skepticism, research shows that citizen voices really do matter to policymakers
- [Railroads Build on Partnership to Enhance Service for Customers](https://gorail.org/intermodal/railroads-build-on-partnership-to-enhance-service-for-customers) - Seattle, WA and North Baltimore, OH — BNSF Railway recently announced that it is building on a partnership with CSX Transportation to enhance intermodal shipments from the Pacific Northwest to Ohio. Starting June 8, the new service connects BNSF’s South Seattle (WA) Intermodal Facility to CSX’s Northwest Ohio Intermodal Terminal. BNSF and CSX have partnered
- [Freight Rail Outlook Strong Despite 2020 Headwinds](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/freight-rail-outlook-strong-despite-2020-headwinds) - “Railroading—it’s been around for a long time. We’ve been through a lot and we’ll get through this strong and continue to keep serving for America.” That was the central takeaway offered by Association of American Railroads President and CEO Ian Jefferies during a July 23 webinar hosted by the Eno Center for Transportation. The event,
- [Nuts & Bolts: How Short Lines Deliver First-and-Last Mile Transport](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/nuts-bolts-short-lines-the-starters-finishers-of-first-and-last-mile-transport) - Washington, DC — Thanks to the classic board game Monopoly, four American railroads are gone but not forgotten: B&O Railroad, Reading Railroad, Pennsylvania Railroad and Short Line. While the first three are no longer in operation—and Monopoly’s “Short Line” actually comes from the Shore Fast Line—railfans know that “short line” is still a catch-all term
- [Local Leaders Urge House Leadership to Amend Infrastructure Bill](https://gorail.org/regulation/local-leaders-urge-house-leadership-to-amend-infrastructure-bill) - Washington, D.C. — In a GoRail letter delivered yesterday to Reps. Pelosi, Hoyer, McCarthy, DeFazio and Graves, 34 community, business and economic development leaders across the nation called on the lawmakers to find a bipartisan fix for rail provisions in the Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2) that could undermine the nation’s freight rail network. The
- [5 Ways Freight Railroads Serve You During a Pandemic](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/5-ways-freight-railroads-serve-you-during-a-pandemic) - Washington, D.C. — As the novel coronavirus impacts communities all across the nation, the importance of the global supply chain has come into even clearer focus. An integrated network of planes, trains, ships and trucks deliver, on average, 57 tons of goods per American each year. The entire logistics network is working to keep shelves
- [A #ByTheNumbers Look at Rail Safety](https://gorail.org/safety/a-bythenumbers-look-at-rail-safety) - Alexandria, VA—June marks National Safety Month in the U.S., an annual observance led by the National Safety Council that highlights safety both inside and outside of the workplace. One of the topics of focus this year is something that speaks directly to railroading: building a safety culture. As any railroader knows, safety is at the
- [Nuts & Bolts: Suppliers and Contractors Provide Foundation for Rail Network](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/nuts-bolts-suppliers-and-contractors-provide-foundation-for-rail-network) - Washington, DC — The U.S. freight rail industry is made up of much more than just the railroads themselves. In addition to seven Class I railroads and about 600 short lines, over a thousand additional businesses in the rail supply and contracting sectors operate in every corner of the nation to provide the components, machines,
- [Nuts & Bolts: Rail Intermodal](https://gorail.org/intermodal/nuts-bolts-rail-intermodal) - The Express Lane for Freight by Rail Washington, D.C. — Even some of the most commonly used freight railroading terms can be mystifying to the average person. Indeed, when most people hear the word “rail” they think only of passenger trains – freight rail doesn’t even come to mind. Yet, in most every region of the
- [Resilient Railroads Look Toward Sustainable Future](https://gorail.org/sustainability/resilient-railroads-looking-toward-a-sustainable-future) - Washington, D.C. — This Earth Day is no ordinary Earth Day. In a time of social distancing, the natural environment and outdoors have become an even greater comfort to many people. Outside many windows, people are finding small joys in the blooming of a tree, or the whistle of a train going by. People are
- [Notes from the Field: Trainspotting](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/notes-from-the-field-trainspotting) - Camp Hill, PA — Tonight I visited the Fort Hunter Historic area on a social distancing walk with my favorite furry friend. I stood watching trains at the Rockville Bridge for about an hour. The view was breathtaking. During my walk, I learned that the Eastern Division of the Main Line of the Pennsylvania Canal
- [Op-ed: Freight rail plays an important role in Michigan economy](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-freight-rail-plays-an-important-role-in-michigan-economy) - Detroit, MI – Dan Papineau, Director of Tax Policy & Regulatory Affairs at the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, writes about how vital freight rail is to the Michigan economy in a new op-ed for The Detroit News. Papineau highlighted Michigan’s iconic auto industry as one that is no stranger to the benefits of rail. “Rail has long
- [Op-ed: Valley rail connections drive economic success](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-valley-rail-connections-drive-economic-success) - Phoenix, AZ – In a recent op-ed for the East Valley Tribune, Greater Phoenix Chamber President Todd Sanders highlighted the resolute importance of freight rail to the Arizona economy. “When railroads spend their private dollars to deploy new technologies, add intermodal facilities, enhance track capacity, etc., it means Phoenix-area businesses can move more freight for
- [#RailDay2020 Social Media Guide](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/railday2020-social-media-guide) - Washington, D.C. — Freight rail advocates from across the country are coming together on Capitol Hill Wednesday, March 4 for Railroad Day 2020 — a day to talk rail with federal lawmakers and outline the policy priorities that will keep the freight rail network running on all cylinders in the years ahead. If Railroad Day
- [Congresswoman Miller Tours Magnetech Industrial Services, Inc.](https://gorail.org/innovation/congresswoman-miller-tours-magnetech-industrial-services-inc) - Huntington, WV — Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) today toured Magnetech Industrial Services, Inc. in Huntington. There, she learned about their operations and impact on West Virginia railroads. Magnetech is the recognized leader in the repair, service, and supply of electrical equipment, including essential components of railroad locomotives. “West Virginia’s railroad infrastructure connects our communities and
- [Op-ed: Keep the Rails Strong](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-keep-the-rails-strong) - Marion, NC – Steve Little, mayor of the City of Marion, wrote an op-ed in favor of freight railroads for the McDowell News recently. With his own expertise in the world of rail, Mayor Little focuses his attention on its economic advantages. “The public benefits of rail freight are intuitive, even for those who know little
- [Op-ed: Tennessee’s economy relies on smart federal rail safety rules](https://gorail.org/innovation/op-ed-congress-could-impair-tennessees-booming-rail-industry) - Memphis, TN – In a recent op-ed for the Commercial Appeal, Greater Memphis Chamber President and CEO Beverly Robertson argues against a proposed bill in Congress to regulate rail personnel. She emphasizes the vital role freight rail plays in Tennessee’s economy and how the legislation could subvert railroads in the future. “Tennessee is one of
- [Representative James E. Clyburn Receives Railroad Achievement Award In Charleston](https://gorail.org/ports/representative-james-e-clyburn-receives-railroad-achievement-award-in-charleston) - Member of House Leadership Team Recognized for Transportation Policy Stewardship, Including Oversight of Policies Supporting the U.S. Rail Network CHARLESTON, SC – U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn, the Majority Whip in the House of Representatives, yesterday received the Railroad Achievement Award in his district, SC-6. Presented by the Association of American Railroads and GoRail, the industry honored Rep. Clyburn for
- [Op-ed: Freight rail is key to US infrastructure](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/op-ed-freight-rail-is-key-to-us-infrastructure) - Takoma Park, MD — Jarrett Smith, Takoma Park City Councilmember and member of the National League of Cities Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, highlighted Governor Larry Hogan’s infrastructure leadership in a January 17 op-ed published in The Daily Record, urging Hogan and other lawmakers to expand the infrastructure conversation and oppose further economic regulation of freight railroads.
- [Op-ed: Policymakers should get rail policies right](https://gorail.org/ports/op-ed-policymakers-should-get-rail-policies-right) - Atlanta, GA — Brett Harrell, a member of the Georgia State House of Representatives, highlights the success of freight rail in supporting Atlanta’s growing population, and calls on policymakers to get rail policies right, in an op-ed for the Gwinnett Daily Post. “Atlanta is one of America’s fastest growing cities with its population slated to reach
- [Rail Re-Regulation Proposals: A Road Map](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/rail-re-regulation-proposals-a-road-map) - Washington, DC — A little-know government regulator could bring sweeping changes for the freight rail industry—changes that undermine the efficient nationwide rail network relied on by consumers and businesses in communities across America. Here's a breakdown of what's happening, what's at stake, and what you can do to get involved. Rail re-regulation proposals march forward: Rail’s
- [Advocacy Corner: District Meetings](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/advocacy-corner-district-meetings) - "Direct constituent interactions have more influence on lawmakers’ decisions than other advocacy strategies." —Congressional Management Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the relationship between citizens and Congress Washington, DC — Embracing the power of in-person, GoRail makes lawmaker-advocate connections by organizing district meetings and rail facility and supplier tours. Events in 2019 convened constituents and
- [Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García Tours CREATE Projects](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/congressman-jesus-chuy-garcia-tours-create-projects) - Chicago, IL — The CREATE partners had the honor of providing Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-4), member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, a tour of CREATE projects on November 7, 2019. Emily Traiforos of GoRail joined the partners for the tour. Congressman Garcia visited the Chicago Transportation Coordination Office (CTCO), Harlem Avenue
- [Veterans Day Q&A with GoRail's own](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/veterans-day-qa-with-gorails-own-staff-sergeant-larry-lloyd) - Larry Lloyd is a GoRail organizer who has worked to educate community leaders in many states about the benefits of moving more freight by rail. He also continues to serve our country in the Army Reserve. As we all celebrate the sacrifices of the men and women serving our country, we asked Larry a few
- [Industry Honors Rep. Kay Granger with Award at BNSF Headquarters](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/industry-honors-rep-kay-granger-with-award-at-bnsf-headquarters) - Top Republican Appropriator in U.S. House Acknowledged for Leadership on Issues Impacting Railroads Fort Worth, TX — Texas Representative Kay Granger, ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, today received the Railroad Achievement Award in recognition of her continued leadership on policies that help ensure the health of the U.S. railroad network. Privately funded freight
- [Op-ed: Freight railroads key to NJ’s transportation future](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-freight-railroads-key-to-njs-transportation-future) - Newark, NJ — Chip Hallock, president and CEO of the Newark Regional Business Partnership, describes the role and impact of freight railroads in New Jersey, calling for policymakers to preserve reasonable rail regulation in a new op-ed for MyCentralJersey.com. Hallock shared this positive freight rail story, he writes, with Representative Tom Malinowski in a recent meeting.
- [Four Questions with Fred Strong, NLC Rail Chair](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/four-questions-with-fred-strong-nlc-rail-chair) - Paso Robles, CA — Paso Robles City Councilman Fred Strong has worn many hats across decades of service in his community. From co-founding Paso Robles’ first Youth Soccer program in the 80s to more recently working on a revision of the Paso Robles Airport Master Plan and serving as transportation chair for the National Association
- [Rail upgrades to enhance South Alabama Mega Site](https://gorail.org/intermodal/rail-upgrades-to-enhance-south-alabama-mega-site) - Robertsdale, AL — Baldwin County’s economic development resume is lengthy and getting longer. Not only does the southwest Alabama county have one of the state’s fastest growing populations, experiencing a 43% spike since 2000, it also boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates at just 2.2%. The region’s success hinges on its many strengths, not
- [Senator Jack Reed Honored with Railroad Achievement Award](https://gorail.org/truck-size-and-weight/senator-jack-reed-honored-with-railroad-achievement-award) - Ranking Member of T-HUD Subcommittee Recognized for Policies Affecting the U.S. Rail Network Washington, D.C. — Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (T-HUD), today received the Railroad Achievement Award in recognition of his continued leadership on issues directly and indirectly affecting both freight and
- [Op-ed: Iowa doesn't need to be told how to operate our railroads](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-iowa-doesnt-need-to-be-told-how-to-operate-our-railroads) - Cedar Rapids, IA — Oelwein City Councilman Warren Fisk pushed back on the idea of government intervention into railroad crew size staffing in a recent op-ed for the Cedar Rapids Gazette. Cautioning Iowa's lawmakers against crew size legislation requiring two crew members in the cab of a locomotive, Fisk writes that this type of mandate
- [In the era of deregulation, one agency didn’t get the memo](https://gorail.org/regulation/in-the-era-of-deregulation-one-agency-didnt-get-the-memo) - Seattle, WA — Recently the Surface Transportation Board (STB) decided to create new, burdensome regulations on the rail industry which has the potential to raise freight rates and ultimately the cost of goods delivered to consumers and businesses. Freight rail carries 40% of the goods moved in the United States. As Randal O’Toole points out in his new book, Romance
- [Op-ed: Connecticut is a commerce cul-de-sac. Here’s how to fix it.](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/op-ed-connecticut-is-a-commerce-cul-de-sac-heres-how-to-fix-it) - Hartford, CT — Mayor N. Warren "Pete" Hess III of Naugatuck addressed Connecticut's infrastructure problems in a recent op-ed in the Hartford Courant. Discussing the need for inland port development and improved intermodal connections, Hess highlights the benefits of rail over highway-bound modes in terms of infrastructure damage. "Because heavy trucks cause the lion’s share
- [Congressman Troy Balderson Tours Ashland Railway](https://gorail.org/intermodal/congressman-troy-balderson-tours-ashland-railway) - House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Member visits Ashland Railway’s Mid-Ohio Rail Terminal and Mansfield Railport in Richland County. Mansfield, OH — U.S. Representative Troy Balderson (OH-12) spent the morning learning more about the operations and impact of Ashland Railway, a short line railroad servicing north central Ohio. Led by officials from Ashland Railway, and joined
- [Op-ed: Mandating how railroad staff trains could impede future rail innovation](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-mandating-how-railroad-staff-trains-could-impede-future-rail-innovation) - Salem, OR — Tim Atkinson, president of the Pacific Northwest Association of Rail Shippers and vice president of sales at Stimson Lumber, urged policymakers to reject crew size mandates that could undercut rail innovation in a recent op-ed for the Statesman Journal. "Oregon’s storied timber remains one of our state’s most important economic drivers. At the center
- [NACo Transportation Committee Joins GoRail at World-Class Rail Research Facility](https://gorail.org/innovation/naco-transportation-committee-joins-gorail-at-world-class-rail-research-facility) - Pueblo, CO — A 52-square-mile facility with extensive test tracks and specialized laboratories was the backdrop for a mid-August visit from a National Association of Counties (NACo) delegation. Members of NACo’s Transportation Steering Committee, joining GoRail last week, made their way to Pueblo, CO to see first-hand how the rail industry is on the cutting
- [Congressman Scott Perry Tours Amsted Rail Facility](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/congressman-scott-perry-tours-amsted-rail-facility) - House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Member Rep. Perry tours Cumberland County railroad supplier. Camp Hill, PA — U.S. Representative Scott Perry (PA-10) joined officials from Amsted Rail Company, the Association of American Railroads, Railway Supply Institute and GoRail today for a tour of the rail supplier’s Camp Hill facility, which manufactures freight car cushion units and
- [Iowa Northern Railway Company Hosts Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/iowa-northern-railway-company-hosts-congresswoman-abby-finkenauer) - House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Member Rep. Finkenauer tours Black Hawk County railroad. WATERLOO, IOWA, August 27, 2019 – U.S. Representative Abby Finkenauer (IA-1) continued her infrastructure tour through Iowa’s 1st congressional district at Iowa Northern Railway Company on Tuesday. Alongside officials from Iowa Northern and GoRail, the congresswoman toured the railroad’s operations center and
- [Op-Ed: Texas needs smart freight rules](https://gorail.org/regulation/op-ed-texas-needs-smart-freight-rules) - San Antonio and Laredo, TX — In a recent op-ed published in the San Antonio Express-News and Laredo Morning Times, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell outlines why he thinks crew size mandates for railroads are bad policy. "With Lone Star State energy production reaching historic levels, the industry’s place in our state’s economy
- [Op-Ed: Railroad Tech Impresses, Helps Southern California Economic Engines](https://gorail.org/ports/op-ed-railroad-tech-impresses-helps-southern-california-economic-engines) - Orange County, CA — Future Ports Executive Director Marnie Primmer talks infrastructure, ports and rail in a recent op-ed for the Voice of OC. Writing that "a symbiotic relationship between the ports and surrounding communities is essential," Primmer outlines how freight railroads are helping the region and port system tackle environmental goals. "A sustainable supply chain
- [Op-Ed: Infrastructure programs should include rail development](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/op-ed-infrastructure-programs-should-include-rail-development) - Corvallis, WA — Oregon Shipping Group President Kevin Mannix emphasized the critical role of freight rail in Oregon in a recent op-ed for the Corvallis Gazette-Times. "At least 38,000 containers of goods originating in the Willamette Valley were shipped out of Oregon in 2016 — including straw, hay, pulp, lumber, potatoes, seeds, grains, Christmas trees
- [Rail Project Propels Ag Producers in Schoharie County](https://gorail.org/agriculture/rail-project-propels-ag-producers-in-schoharie-county) - Schoharie, NY — Situated between the beautiful Catskill Mountains and bustling Albany-Schenectady metro area, Schoharie County is home to 32 towns, villages and hamlets containing 33,000 New Yorkers. The county, dating back to 1795, is a rich agricultural community that produces everything from fruits and veggies to dairy and livestock to maple and honey. And
- [Op-Ed: A user-pay blueprint for infrastructure investment](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/a-user-pay-blueprint-for-infrastructure-investment) - San Antonio, TX — Texas infrastructure faces many challenges, but freight rail stands out because of its robust network and private investments, writes Jeff Moseley, Texas Association of Business president and CEO, in a recent op-ed for the San Antonio Express-News. He penned the piece after attending Railroad Day on Capitol Hill in May. “Fortunately, I
- [USMCA, Rail and the U.S. Economy: A Road Map](https://gorail.org/trade/usmca-rail-and-the-u-s-economy-a-road-map) - Washington, DC — Among the many policy issues competing for attention is the future of America’s trade deals. From ratifying USMCA to escalating Chinese tariffs, the haze of uncertainty surrounding trade undermines industries across the country. Freight railroads, which service nearly every industrial, agricultural, retail and resource-based sector of the economy, are a prime example.
- [U.S. Freight Railroads and Trade: By the Numbers](https://gorail.org/ports/u-s-freight-railroads-and-trade-by-the-numbers) - Washington, D.C. — A March 29 report from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) offers a compelling look at the relationship between North American railroads and international trade. While we already knew that freight railroads haul about one-third of U.S. exports, the new data goes further in demonstrating the depth of rail’s ties to trade.
- [Op-Ed: Autonomous tech rules should ensure safety, not play favorites](https://gorail.org/innovation/autonomous-tech-rules-should-ensure-safety-not-play-favorites) - Macomb County, MI — In their approach to automation policies, congressional leaders should apply the same "safety-first approach" to all modes without picking favorites, according to a new Macomb Daily op-ed by State Rep. John Chirkun (D-Roseville). Chirkun, who serves as minority vice-chair of the Michigan House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, commends leaders in Congress for
- [Op-Ed: Trade, railroads keep Montana competitive in global economy](https://gorail.org/trade/trade-railroads-keep-montana-competitive-in-global-economy) - Great Falls, MT — In a new Great Falls Tribune op-ed, GoRail's Montana State Director Michael Gaynorwrites that free trade has brought prosperity to Montana and argues that policymakers should recognize these gains in their approach to trade policy. "People in Montana are better off thanks to our vigorous participation in the global marketplace, and they
- [Op-Ed: Railroad safety goes high-tech](https://gorail.org/innovation/railroad-safety-goes-high-tech) - Solano County, CA — In a letter to the editor of the The Reporter, District 3 Supervisor and Metropolitan Transportation Commissioner Jim Spering writes that freight railroads are often overlooked in transportation technology discussions despite their commitment to innovation. "While driverless vehicles grab headlines, America’s freight railroads — the “iron horse” of yesteryear — deserve mention
- [Op-Ed: Freight railroads show the way on infrastructure funding](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/freight-railroads-show-the-way-on-infrastructure-funding) - Salem, OR — Discussing infrastructure in an op-ed for the Statesman Journal — and looking to the new leadership of Congressman Peter DeFazio at the House Transportation and Infrastructure committee — former Oregon state senator and representative Kevin Mannix urges policymakers to shore up the Highway Trust Fund via a more sustainable, user-pay revenue stream akin
- [Op-Ed: First responders better prepared with rail app](https://gorail.org/innovation/first-responders-better-prepared-with-rail-app) - La Crosse, WI — In a new op-ed for the La Crosse Tribune, Altoona police chief and Wisconsin State Rep. Jesse James highlighted AskRail, an innovative mobile application developed by freight railroads for first responders. He writes that while "99.99 percent of the trains carrying hazardous materials [reach] their destinations safely," AskRail can "be a potential
- [Op-Ed: Tariffs undercut Colorado’s economic success](https://gorail.org/trade/tariffs-undercut-colorados-economic-success) - Jefferson County, CO — Jefferson County Commissioner Libby Szabo cautions policymakers in a recent op-ed against tariff escalation, noting the positive impact of international trade on Colorado's economy, businesses and people. "And while there is no doubt that globalization has hurt some U.S. workers, it helps many more, like the more than 733,000 Coloradans who work
- [Op-Ed: Infrastructure is key to continued growth in Tennessee’s economy](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/infrastructure-is-key-to-continued-growth-in-tennessees-economy) - Memphis, TN — Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland highlights the nation's infrastructure imperative in a new op-ed for the Daily Memphian, arguing that "infrastructure is an area ripe for resolution" and that policymakers should look to freight railroads' user-pay example of high infrastructure spending. "Behind rail’s ability to make consistent, high-level investments is sound public policy that balances the
- [Op-Ed: Rail connections vital to Alabama economy](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/rail-connections-vital-to-alabama-economy) - Birmingham, AL — Policymakers should look to freight rail's "user-pays" example when considering highway infrastructure policy, argues Alabama State Director Christy Sammon in a recent op-ed for the Birmingham Business Journal. "But while many of our highways, waterways, runways and other publicly funded infrastructure have been starved for cash, one mode — freight rail — has
- [Op-Ed: Unsung infrastructure can show the way](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/unsung-infrastructure-can-show-the-way) - Oneonta, NY — New York Assemblyman Clifford Crouch recently highlighted freight rail's spending and infrastructure in an op-ed for the Oneonta Daily Star, contrasting rail with the nation's ailing roads and bridges. This private spending, he notes, has led to safety and efficiency advances that ultimately provide public benefits for consumers, drivers and taxpayers. "In
- [Op-Ed: Freight rail can be a model for the infrastructure of the future](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/freight-rail-can-be-a-model-for-the-infrastructure-of-the-future) - Tallahassee, FL — Freight rail is an economic driver for Florida and policymakers should do what they can to keep it that way, State Representative Brad Drake wrote in a recent op-ed in the Tallahassee Democrat. Drake, who represents Florida's district 5, joined GoRail for Railroad Day 2019 to discuss the benefits of rail with
- [Op-Ed: Rail infrastructure needs funding and support](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/rail-infrastructure-needs-funding-and-support) - Minneapolis, MN — Anoka County Commissioner Scott Schulte, a member of the Metropolitan Council’s Transportation Advisory Board and president of the Association of Minnesota Counties, writes about freight rail infrastructure in a recent Star Tribune op-ed. He recently joined GoRail for Railroad Day on Capitol Hill 2019. "I was pleased to talk infrastructure with Minnesota’s congressional
- [Nevada and Rail… a Roundhouse Discussion](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/nevada-and-rail-a-roundhouse-discussion) - Carson City, NV — Nevada’s relationship with railroads began around 1860 when an application was made to the Silver State’s first legislature for a railroad franchise from Carson City to Virginia City. In 1862, President Lincoln signed the Pacific Railroad Bill into law — a law that provided federal aid to private entities to construct a
- [Closer Look: Tech & Innovation on the Rails](https://gorail.org/innovation/closer-look-tech-innovation-on-the-rails) - The modern world is fast-paced, interconnected and competitive. So is freight rail. Railroads apply cutting-edge technology across the entire freight rail network — from tracks to trains and everything in between — enabling a 200-year-old industry to deliver for the U.S. economy in the 21st century. Privately owned freight railroads have spent and invested more
- [Railroad Day Brings GoRail Advocates to Capitol Hill](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/railroad-day-brings-gorail-advocates-to-capitol-hill) - Washington, D.C. — After 350+ meetings with members of Congress, another productive Railroad Day on Capitol Hill is in the books. The day convenes folks from all sectors of the freight rail industry, from Class I and short line railroads to rail suppliers and labor unions. The breadth of this industry representation helps reinforce to
- [Rail-served Port of Mobile to start handling automotive business](https://gorail.org/ports/rail-served-port-of-mobile-to-start-handling-automotive-business) - Mobile, AL — Construction continues on the $60 million development of the Port of Mobile’s rail-served roll-on/roll-off vehicle processing facility. The project, announced in the Spring of last year, is slated for completion by the end of 2019. The southeastern U.S. has become a hotbed of automotive assembly plants in recent years, and the new
- [Taking a Ride on the NS 9-1-1 Safety Train](https://gorail.org/safety/taking-a-ride-on-the-ns-9-1-1-safety-train) - Alexandria, VA — Norfolk Southern’s annual Hazmat Safety Train made its 2019 debut on a bright, crisp morning in Alexandria, Va., on Tuesday — and I was lucky to get an up-close look at the impressive training operation. Now in its fourth year, the safety train is a rolling classroom designed to prepare local first
- [March Madness: GoRail team runs full-court press in support of freight rail](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/march-madness-gorail-team-runs-full-court-march-press-in-support-of-freight-rail) - Washington, DC — March came in like a lion and went out like one, too, for the GoRail team. Our busy staff conducted over 225 meetings with community leaders across 11 states in the month of March, spreading the pro-rail message and rallying constituents to make sure their U.S. senators and representatives understand the importance
- [Intermodal giant to invest $238 million in Jacksonville port expansion](https://gorail.org/ports/intermodal-giant-to-invest-238-million-in-jacksonville-port-expansion) - Jacksonville, FL — “You're kind of at the heart of the intermodal network,” said Kevin Thorpe, chief economist for global commercial real estate company Cushman & Wakefield, describing Jacksonville at an event last week. Referring to the city’s robust rail and port connections, Thorpe echoed a common sentiment felt by economic development professionals throughout the
- [Senior Women Rail Leaders Talk Career, Mentorship and Finding Balance](https://gorail.org/workforce/senior-women-rail-leaders-talk-career-mentorship-and-finding-balance) - Washington, DC. — The Association of American Railroad’s (AAR) three female senior vice presidents, Adrian Arnakis, Kathy Kirmayer and Kristin Smith — half of the organization’s senior leadership team — came to railroading along fairly different paths. One a Capitol Hill veteran, one an expert communicator and one a longtime litigation attorney, they each found
- [In Pictures: GoRail Takes Tech Showcase to Statehouses](https://gorail.org/innovation/in-pictures-gorail-takes-tech-showcase-to-statehouses) - Bismarck, ND, Austin, TX, and Indianapolis, IN — In a series of rail technology "showcases" at three state capitals, GoRail recently had the opportunity to discuss rail innovation with dozens of local leaders and state legislators. Below is a look at the events in Bismarck, Austin and Indianapolis, which featured an array of rail tech, from
- [Florida Rail Day Highlights Rail Infrastructure, Benefits](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/florida-rail-day-highlights-rail-infrastructure-benefits) - Tallahassee, FL — Rail officials and advocates gathered at the Capitol in Tallahassee today to discuss Florida’s freight railroads and their role in moving the state and local economies. Freight rail companies have collectively invested $25 billion annually over the last five years into the 140,000-mile nationwide rail network, fueling steady efficiency and safety gains.
- [Advocates Talk Infrastructure for California Rail Day](https://gorail.org/regulation/advocates-talk-infrastructure-for-california-rail-day) - Sacramento, CA — Rail officials and advocates, led by the California Short Line Railroad Association (CSLRA), gathered at the Capitol in Sacramento today to discuss California’s freight railroads, their role in moving the state and local economies, and current legislative proposals that would affect railroads at the state level. California’s 26 freight railroads move millions of
- [Post-Election, Pre-New Congress Limbo](https://gorail.org/regulation/post-election-pre-new-congress-limbo) - Washington, D.C. — With the November elections solidly in the rear-view mirror, much about the 116th Congress is now known. For railroads, though, there are still significant unknowns about the infrastructure policy landscape they will face. Here’s a look at the current state of play and how the election may impact freight railroads. Turnout and Turnover A
- [Congresswoman Bustos Tours Illinois Rail Tie Facility](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/congresswoman-bustos-tours-illinois-rail-tie-facility) - Galesburg, IL — Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (D-Illinois) took a hands-on tour of a Koppers rail tie plant in Galesburg, Ill., on Monday. Joining GoRail, the Railway Engineering-Maintenance Suppliers Association (REMSA), the National Railroad Construction & Maintenance Association (NRC) and other officials, Rep. Bustos also participated in a discussion about the railroad industry's top public policy priorities.
- [Q&A: A Closer Look at Rail’s Role in Ventura County](https://gorail.org/intermodal/qa-a-closer-look-at-rails-role-in-ventura-county) - Ventura County, CA — Ventura County plays a pivotal role in the movement of goods and passengers by rail across densely populated Southern California. With Asia as its largest importer, agribusiness in Ventura and nearby Santa Barbara counties is a driver for the regional economy, generating more than $6 billion in annual economic activity and employing over
- [New Analysis Ties Rail Suppliers to Billions in Economic Impact](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/new-analysis-ties-rail-suppliers-to-billions-in-economic-impact) - Washington, DC — America's rail suppliers — which produce everything from signals, track and ties to the advanced tech used for PTC — contributed $74.2 billion to U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) in 2017, according to a new study from Oxford Economics, an independent global advisory firm that specializes in economic forecasting and modeling. The North American freight
- [Freight rail app makes emergency response safer and easier](https://gorail.org/safety/freight-rail-app-makes-emergency-response-safer-and-easier) - Tuscola, IL — Brian A. Moody, fire chief of Tuscola and secretary/treasurer of the Douglas County Firefighters Association and MABAS Division 26 (Mutual Aid Box Alarm Association), highlighted the innovative AskRail mobile app in a recent op-ed for the State Journal Register. "AskRail is an application that first responders can download directly onto their mobile devices or
- [Escalating tariff war means economic uncertainty for Indiana businesses](https://gorail.org/trade/escalating-tariff-war-means-economic-uncertainty-for-indiana-businesses) - Elkhart County, IN — Mike Yoder, president of the Elkhart County Board of Commissioners, recently took to the op-ed pages of Elkhart County's local paper to discuss the harmful effects of tariffs for Indiana farmers, manufacturers and the freight rail sector. "Between the swirling numbers and seemingly constant escalations, it’s easy to lose sight of what this
- [State of Georgia Ports and Rail is Strong](https://gorail.org/intermodal/state-of-georgia-ports-rail-is-strong) - Savannah, GA — This week the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) held its annual State of the Port – and there certainly is a lot of good news to talk about. The port of Savannah experienced its second busiest month ever in July, with tonnage across all Georgia ports increasing by 10.5 percent. On August 22, Gov.
- [Rail Brings a Windfall to Great Falls](https://gorail.org/agriculture/rail-brings-a-windfall-to-great-falls) - Great Falls, MT — Great Falls is located at one of the most impressive sections of the mighty Missouri. The river drops over 500 feet in elevation as it meanders through the community and its five breathtaking waterfalls — the great falls of the Missouri. Surrounded by productive farmland, Great Falls sits between the Rocky Mountains to
- [Help us spread the Rail Safety Week message!](https://gorail.org/safety/help-us-spread-the-railsafetyweek-message) - Washington, D.C. — Operation Lifesaver, a nonprofit public safety education and awareness organization dedicated to reducing collisions, fatalities and injuries at highway-rail crossings and trespassing on or near railroad tracks, is gearing up for its second annual Rail Safety Week (Sept. 23-29). Believe it or not, a person or vehicle is hit by a train
- [Industry Honors Rep. Denham with Railroad Achievement Award](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/industry-honors-rep-denham-with-railroad-achievement-award) - Tracy, CA — August 3, 2018 – California Congressman Jeff Denham, chairman of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee railroads subcommittee, today received the “Railroad Achievement Award” in recognition of his continued leadership on issues affecting both freight and passenger railroads. Rep. Denham is the first member of Congress this year to receive the award, which
- [Harsco Rail Hosts U.S. Senator Gary Peters](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/harsco-rail-hosts-u-s-senator-gary-peters) - Ludington, MI — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-Michigan) wrapped up his third annual motorcycle tour of Michigan in Ludington on August 10 at Harsco Rail, a global supplier for railway track maintenance and construction. Alongside Harsco's Ludington Plant Manager Alex Whitacre, as well as GoRail, the Michigan Railroads Association, NRC and REMSA, Sen. Peters received a firsthand
- [Four Key Post-Election Takeaways for Freight Rail](https://gorail.org/regulation/four-key-post-election-takeaways-for-freight-rail) - Alexandria, VA — Infrastructure is front and center in post-election policy discussions as lawmakers consider President-elect Donald Trump’s $1 trillion proposal to upgrade the nation’s roads, bridges, tunnels and airports. Meanwhile, freight railroads continue to spend and invest billions of dollars of their own money in the nation’s rail network, providing a stark comparison with
- [Washington's Trade Economy Needs Infrastructure Development](https://gorail.org/trade/washingtons-trade-economy-needs-infrastructure-development) - With its robust industries and coastal geography, Washington state continues to be a national leader in trade. A recent op-ed in the Seattle Times by Edward R. Hamberger, president and CEO of the Association of American Railroads, reminds us just how powerful of an economic driver international trade is for the state. In the United States today, 41 million
- [Trade disputes may hurt Oswego port, freight rail industry](https://gorail.org/trade/trade-disputes-may-hurt-oswego-port-freight-rail-industry) - Syracuse, NY — Morris Sorbello, who represents the 23rd district in the Oswego County Legislature, outlined the negative consequences of tariffs for New York industries, including its freight railroads, in a recent op-ed on Syracuse.com. "Locally, aluminum and steel are also two of the larger commodities handled by the Port of Oswego. Tariffs mean diminished import traffic,
- [The nation’s biggest railroad knot is in our backyard. Let’s fix it.](https://gorail.org/public-private-partnerships/the-nations-biggest-railroad-knot-is-in-our-backyard-lets-fix-it) - Chicago, IL — OK admit it, you are a member of Amazon Prime and you order something almost every day. Lots of others in Chicago are doing the same thing. An apartment building with 200 units can receive upwards of 20,000 packages a year. How do they get to you? You may not realize the big role
- [Rail Infrastructure a Key Connector for Helena Harbor](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/rail-infrastructure-a-key-connector-for-helena-harbor) - Little Rock, AR — John Edwards, economic development director for the Helena Harbor and Phillips County Economic Development, delves into the economic importance of healthy infrastructure for Arkansas in a recent op-ed for the Arkansas Business Journal. While other aspects of the state's transportation systems are faltering, he says, freight railroads demonstrate what can happen when
- [The best bet for a strong Texas economy? Preserving NAFTA.](https://gorail.org/trade/the-best-bet-for-a-strong-texas-economy-preserving-nafta) - Houston, TX — Bob Mitchell, president of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, writes about the importance of NAFTA to Texas's economy and workers in a recent op-ed in the Houston Chronicle. He urges caution when it comes to "scrapping the deal altogether." "Since its inception in 1993, NAFTA has opened new markets and catalyzed enormous
- [Harm from Chinese tariffs will spread beyond Ohio's agricultural industry](https://gorail.org/trade/harm-from-chinese-tariffs-will-spread-beyond-ohios-agricultural-industry) - Cleveland, OH — In a recent op-ed for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Ohio Soybean Association Executive Director Kirk Merritt and GoRail AVP Michael Gaynor discussed how an escalating tariff dispute between the U.S. and China could negatively impact Ohio's family farmers and the industries that support agriculture, like freight railroads. They write: "Soybeans — Ohio's largest agricultural crop — is one
- [Congressman Randy Weber Tours Texas RailWorks Facility](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/congressman-randy-weber-tours-texas-railworks-facility) - House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Member Rep. Weber tours Texas rail supplier. Deer Park, TX — U.S. Representative Randy Weber (R-TX) toured RailWorks Track Systems’ facility in Deer Park today, with Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell, grassroots advocacy organization GoRail, the Railway Engineering-Maintenance Suppliers Association (REMSA) and National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC).
- [First Northern Nevada Short Line Establishes Transloading and Storage Terminal](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/first-northern-nevada-short-line-establishes-transloading-and-storage-terminal) - Carson City, NV — Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA) today announced that Black Gold Rail Terminals: Northern Nevada, a subsidiary of Blacklands Railroad, has established a transloading and storage terminal at the Northern Nevada Railport & Logistics Center in Fernley, NV. With the ability to accommodate most products, Black Gold Rail Terminals can cost effectively help
- [Five Reasons Freight Rail is an Infrastructure Leader](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/five-reasons-freight-rail-is-an-infrastructure-leader) - Washington, DC — Kicking off today, the sixth annual Infrastructure Week (May 14-21) elevates infrastructure as an issue affecting every aspect of our society. It’s also an opportune time to reflect on why the nation’s railroad connections matter — for businesses and the economy as well as drivers, consumers and the environment. Across America, freight railroads handle
- [Five Things You Didn't Know About Rail Safety](https://gorail.org/safety/five-things-you-didnt-know-about-rail-safety) - Washington, D.C. — The Association of American Railroads (AAR) announced the new safety record, which is based on data from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), March 22. The news continues a trend of record-setting years for rail safety. For example, March 2017 data from the FRA shows: Train accident rate is down 44 percent since 2000.
- [Senator Amy Klobuchar tours Loram Maintenance of Way](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/senator-amy-klobuchar-tours-loram-maintenance-of-way) - Hamel, MN — Senator Amy Klobcuhar (D-MN), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which oversees railroad policy, joined representatives from Loram Maintenance of Way, Inc., United Steel Workers Local 2002-9, Operation Lifesaver, Inc., Amtrak and local Minnesota railroads for a tour of Loram’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and a discussion on rail safety
- [GoRail Advocates Go to Capitol Hill for Railroad Day 2018](https://gorail.org/regulation/gorail-advocates-go-to-capitol-hill-for-railroad-day-2018) - Washington, D.C. — While GoRail is just a small piece of a tremendous effort during the annual Railroad Day on Capitol Hill, we convene a group of constituents that packs a punch in conveying how freight rail investments ultimately impact local communities. For over 10 years now, our focus for the day is elevating the voices of
- [The Port of Hueneme: Leading the Way  ](https://gorail.org/ports/the-port-of-hueneme-leading-the-way) - Port Hueneme, CA — Situated on the scenic California coastline just 60 miles north of Los Angeles, the Port of Hueneme has carved out a niche for handling automobiles, fresh produce, cargo, bulk liquids and fish. The port’s strategic location on the Pacific Rim facilitates trade with Asia and Australia and its robust, uncongested rail
- [AAR and GoRail Honor Chairman Bill Shuster with Railroad Achievement Award](https://gorail.org/regulation/aar-and-gorail-honor-chairman-bill-shuster-with-railroad-achievement-award) - Accomplished Infrastructure Leader Receives Final Installment Of New Award Initiative in 2017. Washington, D.C., — The Association of American Railroads (AAR) and GoRail today honored House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-Pa.) with the Railroad Achievement Award. Chairman Shuster joins Representative Peter DeFazio and Senators John Thune and Bill Nelson as 2017 recipients of
- [America’s Workforce Development Capital returns to its Freight Rail Roots](https://gorail.org/intermodal/americas-workforce-development-capital-returns-to-its-freight-rail-roots) - Marion, OH — Marion is a small community of 37,000 located in north central Ohio. Home to the 29th U.S. President, Warren G. Harding, Marion was an industrial powerhouse in the early 20th century. Eighty percent of the nation’s steam shovels and heavy-duty earth moving equipment were manufactured in the community at one time. However, by the
- [Hundreds of Local Leaders Sign Letter Opposing Rail Reregulation Proposals](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/hundreds-of-local-leaders-sign-letter-opposing-rail-reregulation-proposals) - Washington, D.C. — This week, GoRail delivered a letter jointly signed by over 450 local and state elected leaders, economic development officers, chambers of commerce, advocacy groups and rail supply companies to the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) and to congressional leadership opposing forced access. This policy change as well as several other new rail regulations were first
- [Norfolk Southern CEO Emphasizes Common Goals, Commitment to Community](https://gorail.org/ports/norfolk-southern-ceo-emphasizes-common-goals-commitment-to-community) - Virginia Beach, VA — Norfolk Southern CEO James Squires was the keynote speaker at the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce’s latest “Leadership Series” event, addressing 150 attendees on November 2 in Virginia Beach. Squires, who has served as Norfolk Southern’s chief executive officer since June 2015, highlighted the areas of commonality between the railroad and the chamber.
- [Freight Rail Jobs Grow Wisconsin Economy, Support Veterans](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/freight-rail-jobs-grow-wisconsin-economy-support-veterans) - Madison, WI — When railroads talk about their infrastructure, they’re not only referring to rails and locomotives. People are at the core of what railroads do every day—and their impact extends far beyond the rail lines to every corner of the country. From the yardmaster and conductor to the locomotive mechanic and dispatcher, rail employees keep America’s
- [Correcting Four Myths Around Rail Safety](https://gorail.org/safety/correcting-four-myths-around-rail-safety) - Washington, D.C. — Today marks the start of the first-ever national Rail Safety Week (Sept. 24-30), a joint effort by the national rail safety education nonprofit Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI), the U.S. Department of Transportation, law enforcement agencies, and many other organizations. Believe it or not, a person or vehicle in the U.S. is hit by a
- [Congressman Lloyd Smucker Tours Norfolk Southern Rail Yard](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/congressman-lloyd-smucker-tours-norfolk-southern-rail-yard) - House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Member Rep. Smucker tours Pennsylvania rail yard. Lancaster, Pa. — U.S. Representative Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-16) joined officials from Norfolk Southern, Lancaster County and GoRail today for a tour of the railroad’s H. Craig Lewis Yard in Lancaster. The group learned about the local economic impact of the region’s freight rail connections as
- [Sen. Mike Lee Tours A&K Railroad Materials Headquarters](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/sen-mike-lee-tours-ak-railroad-materials-headquarters) - Salt Lake City, Utah — U.S. Senator Mike Lee joined GoRail and representatives from A&K Railroad Materials, Inc (A&K) today for a tour of the rail supplier’s national headquarters in Salt Lake City. A leading supplier of new and used track materials and state-of-the-art services including welding and track removal, A&K hosted the tour and discussion,
- [Why the Port of Long Beach is Investing in Rail to Handle Bigger Ships](https://gorail.org/ports/why-the-port-of-long-beach-is-investing-in-rail-to-handle-bigger-ships) - Long Beach, Calif. — This spring, ports around the U.S. will start welcoming new and larger vessel services, and the Port of Long Beach will be handling the biggest ships to call North America. Behind the shift is a recent set of mergers between ocean carriers – and the consequent consolidation of shipping alliances between these carriers.
- [In Georgia, rail is a key connector for inland ports and new markets](https://gorail.org/intermodal/in-georgia-rail-is-a-key-connector-for-inland-ports-and-new-markets) - Inland ports and freight railroads work together to boost Georgia economy. Murray County, Ga. — In 2018, the Appalachian Regional Port (ARP) will open as Georgia’s newest inland port, boasting an initial annual capacity of 50,000 containers with development plans to double that capacity over the next 10 years. Its service area will include North Georgia,
- [Congressman Peter DeFazio Receives Rail Award at Eugene Supplier](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/congressman-peter-defazio-receives-rail-award-at-eugene-supplier) - Ranking member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee honored by AAR, GoRail for demonstrated commitment to the U.S. rail network. Eugene, Ore. — The Association of American Railroads (AAR), in partnership with grassroots advocacy organization GoRail, today honored Congressman Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.) with the Railroad Achievement Award, an initiative launched in May 2017. Recognized for his
- [Senators John Thune and Bill Nelson honored with Railroad Achievement Award](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/senators-john-thune-and-bill-nelson-honored-with-railroad-achievement-award) - New award given to chairman and ranking member of the Senate Commerce Committee for demonstrated commitment to U.S. rail. Washington, D.C. — The Association of American Railroads (AAR), in partnership with grassroots advocacy organization GoRail, honored Senators John Thune (R-S.D.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) with the first-ever Railroad Achievement Award on May 10. Recognized for their consistent,
- [Freight rail delivering economic growth in Kentucky](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/freight-rail-delivering-economic-growth-in-kentucky) - More than 25 years ago, ground was broken on a 1,300-acre tract of farmland in Scott County that now is home to Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), Toyota’s largest manufacturing facility outside of Japan – employing nearly 7,000 people. And freight rail access helped bring Toyota to Kentucky. “Railroads help power our economy and connect
- [Point/Counterpoint: Evaluating Forced Access](https://gorail.org/regulation/pointcounterpoint-evaluating-forced-access) - Washington, D.C. — Last fall, the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) announced several new proposals that would negatively impact freight railroads and their ability to invest in the nationwide rail network. Several issues are at stake, chief among them something called “forced access.” Complicated in both practice and theory, this process would force railroads to open their
- [Record Number of Rail Advocates Take the Hill](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/record-number-of-rail-advocates-take-the-hill) - Washington, D.C. — More than 450 rail advocates — railroaders, suppliers, customers and GoRail coalition members — attended 367 congressional meetings on March 2 for Railroad Day on Capitol Hill 2017. The annual event, led by the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA), provides a forum for these advocates to speak directly to their members of
- [A Look Ahead: #RailDay2017](https://gorail.org/policy-issues/a-look-ahead-railday2017) - Alexandria, VA — Railroad Day on Capitol Hill 2017 is almost here. Hundreds of rail advocates and community leaders from around the country will flood Capitol Hill next Thursday, March 2, to talk to members of Congress about the story of freight rail — stronger economies, more jobs and cleaner skies. A healthy and vibrant freight rail
- [Railroads Announce 2017 Capex, Pursue Policy Opportunities](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/railroads-announce-2017-capex-pursue-policy-opportunities) - Alexandria, VA — Against the backdrop of a new Congress and Administration in Washington, D.C., the Association of American Railroads announced Wednesday that U.S. freight railroads plan to spend and invest an estimated $22 billion in 2017 to maintain and improve the rail system – an average of more than $60 million per day. This continues the
- [GoRail Advocates Speak Out Against STB Proposals](https://gorail.org/regulation/gorail-advocates-speak-out-against-stb-proposals) - Alexandria, VA - Last July, the U.S. Surface Transportation Board, which provides economic regulatory oversight for railroads, announced a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to consider several new rules that would effectively re-regulate freight railroads. One of the most significant proposed changes, most accurately referred to as "forced access," would require railroads to open their lines to
- [This Day in History: Railroads Create the First U.S. Time Zones](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/this-day-in-history-railroads-create-the-first-u-s-time-zones) - Alexandria, VA — Freight railroads have a long and storied history in North America, beginning with the driving of the Golden Spike in Promontory Summit, Utah in 1869. From steam locomotives to today's green "Gensets," from only 2,000 track miles to the modern 140,000-mile network, freight railroads have evolved significantly over the last 147 years, growing
- [Congressman Mike Rogers Tours Knox Kershaw](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/congressman-mike-rogers-tours-al-rail-supplier-knox-kershaw) - Montgomery, AL — U.S. Congressman Mike D. Rogers (R-AL-3) joined Knox Kershaw, Inc., to tour their long-held Montgomery facility and discuss pressing rail and manufacturing issues with representatives from local railroads and businesses on October 27. The Railway Engineering-Maintenance Suppliers Association (REMSA) coordinated the event and GoRail also participated. Led by J. Knox Kershaw, II, chairman
- [Rail helps attract Nissan to Mississippi](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/rail-helps-attract-nissan-to-mississippi) - Ridgeland, MS - Madison County, Mississippi, is home to one of Nissan's North American assembly plants—a 3.5 million square foot facility that has helped bring thousands of jobs to the region since it opened in 2003. Freight rail access was a major factor in Nissan’s decision to build its facility in Madison County, which is
- [STB Announces Proposals that Would Chill Railroad Investment](https://gorail.org/regulation/stb-announces-proposals-that-would-chill-railroad-investment) - Alexandria, VA — The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB), a government agency with broad economic regulatory authority over railroads, has announced a plan to impose a series of new regulations on freight railroads. The new rules, in a broad sense, would hurt freight railroads by undermining the balanced regulatory framework that enables them to earn enough
- [Edgerton, Kansas: A Town With More Jobs Than Residents](https://gorail.org/intermodal/edgerton-kansas-a-town-with-more-jobs-than-residents) - How Railroad Intermodal Investments Are Creating Jobs in Kansas. Edgerton, KS — September marks the beginning of football season, when many of us turn to our televisions — most of which have traveled around the world or across the country before arriving in our living rooms — to cheer on our favorite team. In late August, Amazon.com
- [GoRail Advocates Tout Rail’s Impact in Newspapers Across U.S.](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/gorail-advocates-tout-rails-impact-in-newspapers-across-u-s) - Alexandria, VA - You may have seen our tweets, Facebook posts and blog over the summer: in a new study from Towson University, researchers quantified the economic impact of railroads’ private investments for the first time ever, with impressive results. In 2014, the year that researchers examined, private spending from railroads generated or supported: $274
- [Wisconsin, Midwest Rail Safety Weeks Kick Off](https://gorail.org/safety/wisconsin-midwest-rail-safety-weeks-kick-off) - Jackson, MI — Today marks the start of Wisconsin Rail Safety Week, September 10-16, and tomorrow will kick off the first ever Midwest Rail Safety Week, September 11-17. GoRail will work alongside Operation Lifesaver and Midwest safety groups to highlight the dangers of trespassing on railroad tracks. Trespass fatalities are on the rise in Wisconsin, Illinois and across the
- [Congressman Babin Tours RailWorks Track Systems Facility](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/congressman-babin-tours-railworks-track-systems-facility) - Deer Park, TX — U.S. Representative Brian Babin joined GoRail and the National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) for a tour of RailWorks Track Systems’ facility in Deer Park on August 18. RailWorks is a leader in track and transit systems construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance services for America’s rail infrastructure. Locally in Deer Park, RailWorks employs
- [New Report Quantifies Freight Rail’s Economic Impact](https://gorail.org/economic-impact/new-report-quantifies-freight-rails-economic-impact) - Alexandria, VA - For every dollar freight railroads spend on building, maintaining and enhancing America’s 140,000-mile rail network, $10 is generated in economic impact, according to a new study from Towson University’s Regional Economic Studies Institute (RESI). Freight rail investments also support 1.5 million jobs across the country—nine jobs for every rail job. The study,
- [How Freight Rail Helped Create a Global Economic Hub](https://gorail.org/intermodal/how-freight-rail-helped-create-a-global-economic-hub) - How do you transform a small desert community into a 21st-century boomtown? For years, leaders in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, tried to answer this very question. Located just a few miles north of the United States-Mexico border and minutes west of the Texas state line, this town of about 4,200 residents had long lived in
- [AAR Launches 2016 Freight Rail Works Campaign](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/aar-launches-2016-freight-rail-works-campaign) - The Association of American Railroads (AAR) launched its 2016 Freight Rail Works campaign February 22. The updated campaign focuses on the unique role freight rail plays in helping move the 54 tons of goods transported each year for every American. The efficiencies and scale of railroads are major advantages for American companies, enabling lower prices
- [Continued rail investment helps MI auto industry](https://gorail.org/sustainability/continued-rail-investment-helps-mi-auto-industry) - Flint, MI - It’s true—the auto industry in Michigan is back. As the industry grows and invests in its future, private investments from freight railroads are helping to make recovery possible. In 2014, Michigan railroads invested more than $100 million in the “Great Lakes State,” creating jobs and helping the auto industry move new cars
- [What do Cars, Aluminum, and Sweeteners Have in Common?](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/what-do-cars-aluminum-and-sweeteners-have-in-common) - Lafayette, IN - Lafayette, Ind., a small community nestled between Chicago and Indianapolis, is one of the nation’s best-kept secrets. According to the local economic development organization, nearly anyone could get a job tomorrow at one of the area manufacturing facilities starting at almost two times minimum wage. “Lafayette is and has been in a
- [Senator Tours Harsco Rail, Discusses Michigan Workforce](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/senator-tours-harsco-rail-discusses-michigan-workforce) - Ludington, MI - “I am so impressed, with both the individual pieces and then what it looks like when it’s all put together,” said Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) following her tour of Harsco Rail's facility in Ludington, Mich., on July 19. Sen. Stabenow joined the Railway Engineering-Maintenance and Suppliers Association (REMSA) and the United Auto Workers
- [Join the #RailDay2016 Conversation](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/join-the-railday2016-conversation) - It’s that time of year again – Railroad Day 2016 on Capitol Hill is just around the corner. On March 3, hundreds of rail advocates from communities around the country will come together to discuss the impact of railroad investments and rail policy decisions with their members of Congress. This year, in addition to taking
- [Railroad Day Brings Community Leaders to Capitol Hill](https://gorail.org/regulation/railroad-day-brings-community-leaders-to-capitol-hill) - Alexandria, VA - On March 3, hundreds of community leaders and rail advocates converged on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. for Railroad Day 2016. The annual event allows GoRail's advocates and others within the industry to talk to Congress about how rail is benefiting their communities -- from strengthening businesses and local economies to decreasing road
- [Rail Advocates Laud FAST Act Leadership](https://gorail.org/positive-train-control/rail-advocates-laud-fast-act-leadership) - In “Bipartisan Leadership on Rail Deserves Credit,” GoRail community leaders Assemblyman Gordon Johnson (NJ) and Representative Shelley Keeney Taylor (MO) commended Congress for passage of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. Their article, which recently appeared on Inside Sources, a Washington, D.C. based news site, highlights some of the FAST Act’s positive implications for freight rail:
- [Report Talks Safety, Innovation](https://gorail.org/innovation/report-talks-safety-innovation) - Alexandria, VA - Big data, drones, and multidimensional ultrasonic technology are just a few of the rail industry’s newest innovations aimed at advancing rail safety. In its first “State of the Industry” report, released January 27, the Association of American Railroads explores key challenges, accomplishments and innovations in rail safety. State-of-the-art inspection technology currently makes
- [On Track for a Sustainable Future](https://gorail.org/sustainability/on-track-for-a-sustainable-future) - Earth Day is a good time to reflect on the transportation sector's crucial role in mitigating pollution. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 26 percent of America's greenhouse gases come from the transportation sector, including both passenger and freight movement. Railroads, given their scale of movement, have long been environmental stewards, but their commitment does not
- [Freight rail key to export growth in Texas](https://gorail.org/agriculture/freight-rail-key-to-export-growth-in-texas) - Corpus Christi, TX - The Port of Corpus Christi has diversified the commodities coming into and leaving the port. These efforts have paid off with increased volume. To better service customers and handle larger volumes the Port received a $10 million TIGER 2012 grant to begin Phase I of the Nueces River Rail Yard. In
- [Freight rail key to new business and jobs at Port of Richmond](https://gorail.org/ports/freight-rail-key-to-new-business-and-jobs-at-port-of-richmond) - Richmond, CA - An auto processing facility at the Port of Richmond was part of a $40 million renovation that established modern, efficient on-dock rail loading capability while enhancing the port’s role as a major entry point for vehicles from Asia. These renovations created 200 full-time jobs. “Freight rail is vital to the Port’s success”,
- [Renaissance at Port of West Sacramento](https://gorail.org/intermodal/renaissance-at-port-of-west-sacramento) - West Sacramento, CA - The inland Port of West Sacramento is centered in one of the world’s richest agricultural regions and is home to a transportation network where new freight rail projects are allowing the port to increase business and efficiency. These new rail projects will also help drive job creation. A 4,700-foot rail extension
- [Freight rail supporting job growth in Ohio](https://gorail.org/intermodal/freight-rail-supporting-job-growth-in-ohio) - Marion, OH - The Marion Industrial Center was originally constructed and owned by the Federal government to support overseas operations during World War II. The 478 acre facility hosted 1.2 million square feet in building space and 10 miles of railroad track. The facility served as a rail oriented supply depot supporting the movement of
- [Sen. Schumer Joins GoRail for Tour of New York Air Brake](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/senator-schumer-joins-gorail-for-tour-of-new-york-air-brake) - Watertown, NY - U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer (D-NY) joined GoRail for a tour of New York Air Brake’s facility in Watertown, NY on March 25. New York Air Brake is a leading supplier to the railroad industry of braking systems and components, training simulators and train control systems. Sen. Schumer pointed to these sophisticated rail
- [Sens. Graham, Scott Staff Tour Koppers Railroad Tie Plant](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/sen-graham-scott-staff-join-gorail-and-remsa-for-tour-of-koppers-railroad-tie-plant) - Florence, SC – Representatives from the offices of Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Tim Scott (R-SC) joined GoRail and the Railway Engineering-Maintenance Suppliers Association (REMSA) to tour Koppers’ rail tie manufacturing facility, learn about the burgeoning rail and manufacturing communities in the Pee Dee region, and discuss public policy priorities for the industries on April
- [Congressional Tour Talks Proposed MN Train Tax](https://gorail.org/rail-suppliers/congressional-group-tours-railworks-facility-talks-proposed-mn-train-tax) - Lakeville, MN – Minnesota State Representative Jon Koznick and Lynda Boudreau, staff for U.S. Congressman John Kline, joined GoRail and the National Railroad Construction & Maintenance Association (NRC) for a tour of RailWorks’ facility in Lakeville, MN on May 6. RailWorks builds and maintains rail infrastructure for railroads, transit lines, and rail-served industries throughout the
- [Rail investments key to Port of Duluth-Superior](https://gorail.org/ports/rail-investments-key-to-port-of-duluth-superior) - Duluth, MN - Rail investments in Minnesota are enhancing the ability of the Port of Duluth-Superior to connect the upper Midwest to the global marketplace. The largest port on the Great Lakes, Duluth-Superior is served by four Class I railroads, which in turn link it to Chicago and ports on the West Coast. As both
- [Rail connections sustaining jobs in Central Florida](https://gorail.org/public-private-partnerships/rail-sustains-jobs-in-central-florida-helps-build-america) - Haines City, FL - In 2005, Haines City built a 2.8-mile railroad spur to connect the Haines City Industrial Park to the main CSX line. Creating rail access has helped Haines City recruit new businesses and create new jobs. In the Industrial Park and the surrounding area are companies that manufacture and distribute lumber, trusses, pavers,
- [North Carolina manufacturer doubling down on rail renaissance](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/north-carolina-manufacturer-doubling-down-on-rail-renaissance) - Wilmington, NC - Sustained record private investment by freight railroads in North Carolina is boosting the economy while making rail networks even safer, more productive, and more efficient. And in the city of Wilmington, manufacturers that supply the rail industry are doubling down on its renaissance. In November 2014, Vertex Rail Technologies LLC announced it
- [Fertilizer plant to create jobs, aid IL farmers because of freight rail](https://gorail.org/agriculture/fertilizer-plant-to-create-jobs-aid-il-farmers-because-of-freight-rail) - Tuscola, IL - For decades, the production of agricultural fertilizers used by farmers to enhance the yield of their crops has been largely located overseas. Now, access to freight rail is helping reduce dependence on imported nitrogen products while creating jobs in Illinois. Cronus Fertilizers will build a $1.5 billion fertilizer plant in 2015 at
- [Rail service helps grow Pennsylvania battery manufacturer](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/rail-service-helps-grow-pennsylvania-battery-manufacturer) - Berks County, PA - East Penn Manufacturing Co. operates the largest single-site, lead-acid battery manufacturing facility in the world and supplies first-rate products to the automotive, commercial, marine, motive power, trucking and telecommunications markets. Investment by freight railroads helps keep East Penn the largest and most modern battery manufacturing facility in the world by increasing
- [Rail investment strengthens California's largest industry](https://gorail.org/public-private-partnerships/rail-investment-strengthens-californias-largest-industry) - Colton, CA - The Colton Crossing public-private partnership in San Bernardino is boosting growth of Southern California’s largest industry – goods movement – thanks in part to private investments from freight railroads involved in the project. The crossing was a bottleneck causing significant delays for freight and passenger trains alike. Then, a $93 million investment,
- [Freight Rail Key to Growth at Port of Corpus Christi](https://gorail.org/ports/freight-rail-key-to-growth-at-port-of-corpus-christi) - Corpus Christi, TX - The culmination of the first phase of a $45 million rail yard expansion at the Port of Corpus Christi is helping the port become a booming regional hub for oil and energy products. Texas’ strategic location in America—a position that allows the state to ship and receive diverse products from all
- [Freight rail keeps Port of Houston strong](https://gorail.org/ports/freight-rail-keeps-port-of-houston-strong) - Houston, TX - The Port of Houston is a 25-mile-long complex that ranks first in the country for the number of tons exported through the Port, handling 65 percent of all major U.S. export cargo. The Port contributes to over one million jobs throughout Texas while generating $178.5 billion in economic activity within the state
- [Rail investment in safety technology creates jobs in Syracuse](https://gorail.org/positive-train-control/rail-investment-in-safety-technology-creates-jobs-in-syracuse) - Syracuse, NY - As the economy continues to recover, demand for rail service and for the companies that supply the rail industry continues to increase. The billions of dollars freight railroads invest in their network each year help meet that demand and create jobs at companies like Critical Link, LLC, based in Syracuse, New York.
- [Freight rail key part of Colorado's energy renaissance](https://gorail.org/manufacturing/freight-rail-key-part-of-colorados-energy-renaissance) - Weld County, CO - When Vestas Wind Systems opened its first U.S. turbine blade factory in 2008, it chose Windsor, Colorado, because of its rail connections to the North, South, East and West. The facility now produces over 1,800 wind turbine blades each year and employs more than 650 Coloradans. “Rail investments helped Weld County
- [New Rail Facility to Connect Albuquerque Businesses to New Markets](https://gorail.org/intermodal/new-rail-facility-to-connect-albuquerque-businesses-to-new-markets) - Albuquerque, NM - Albuquerque will soon be home to the region’s first transloading facility—a rail access point that can transfer bulk materials between trains and trucks, providing local businesses access to freight rail. Gandy Dancer, LLC, one of the southwest region’s premier railroad and excavation contractors, broke ground on the $5 million project last December.
- [Midwest Inland Port, Rail Connections Enhancing Development in Central Illinois](https://gorail.org/intermodal/midwest-inland-port-rail-connections-enhancing-development-in-central-illinois) - Decatur, IL - Water might seem like a prerequisite for a port to many people, but in recent years, a trend in distribution has begun to benefit communities across the county: the inland port. These dry facilities, ordinarily located along rail lines, are designed to serve the burgeoning intermodal network. In 2014, intermodal volume rose
- [Maintenance at Core of Rail Infrastructure Spending](https://gorail.org/infrastructure/maintenance-at-core-of-rail-infrastructure-spending) - Every year, freight railroads spend billions of dollars to improve their nationwide infrastructure. New projects—bridges and flyovers, rail yard and terminal expansions—often draw the most attention, but ongoing maintenance is at the core of rail investments and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the network. Rocla Concrete Tie, Inc. produces over a million ties each
- [Commentary: U.S. Congress has work to do to avoid rail stoppage](https://gorail.org/agriculture/commentary-u-s-congress-has-work-to-do-to-avoid-rail-stoppage) - Sacramento, CA - The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure committee voted to extend the deadline for positive train control (PTC) Oct. 22, taking an important step toward forestalling a rail stoppage that would hurt California's farmers and affect millions. Now, the rest of Congress needs to finish the job and pass an extension. The alternative

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- [Subscribe to The Spur](https://gorail.org/subscribe) - Rail at Work LATEST NEWS & UPDATES Economic Impact Rail Grants Roundup November 10, 2024November 11, 2024 Advocacy New Campaign Unites Rail Champions Across America September 16, 2024September 19, 2024 Advocacy N.Y. & Atlantic Railway Hosts U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito September 7, 2024September 30, 2024 Economic Impact AAR Provides New Insight and New Index on
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- [Rail Advocates](https://gorail.org/about/rail-advocates) - Scott Schulte Anoka County Commissioner Coon Rapids, Minnesota "A high-functioning freight rail system helps drive the Minnesota economy by connecting business and producers, like those in our agricultural, industrial, forestry and mining sectors." Get to know Scott More Leaders About Rail Advocates Rail Suppliers and Contractors GoRail Staff See our latest report Annual GoRail Twenty
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- [Rail Suppliers and Contractors](https://gorail.org/about/rail-suppliers) - Load More See Your State! Advocacy Organizing in a Pandemic March 4, 2021March 4, 2021 Policy Issues Rail Policy Landscape in the 117th Congress February 17, 2021February 17, 2021 Regulation Op-ed: Keep rail resurgence going strong February 16, 2021 Economic Impact Three Reasons to Love America’s Freight Trains February 12, 2021February 12, 2021 Regulation Op-ed:
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- [Contact](https://gorail.org/lets-talk)

## Events

- [Condimentum Ullamcorper Euismod Ipsum Etiam](https://gorail.org/fw-event-slug/condimentum-ullamcorper-euismod-ipsum-etiam) - Curabitur blandit tempus porttitor. Donec id elit non mi porta gravida at eget metus. Nullam id dolor id nibh ultricies vehicula ut id elit. Nullam quis risus eget urna mollis ornare vel eu leo. Maecenas faucibus mollis interdum. Donec sed odio dui. Sed posuere consectetur est at lobortis. Morbi leo risus, porta ac consectetur ac,

## State Library

- [West Virginia](https://gorail.org/state/west-virginia) - Although domestic coal consumption has waned, the Mountaineer State remains a -railroad state-.
- [District of Columbia](https://gorail.org/state/district-of-columbia) - Maecenas sed diam eget risus varius blandit sit amet non magna. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec id elit non mi porta gravida at eget metus. Cras mattis consectetur purus sit amet fermentum. Praesent commodo cursus magna, vel scelerisque nisl consectetur et. Fusce dapibus, tellus ac cursus commodo, tortor mauris condimentum nibh, ut fermentum massa justo sit amet risus.
- [Wyoming](https://gorail.org/state/wyoming) - As the number one source of coal in the United States and the nation’s ninth-largest natural gas producer, Wyoming relies on railroads to bring in the equipment to harvest energy resources and to export this Cowboy State bounty to the nation and the world.
- [Alabama](https://gorail.org/state/alabama) - Alabama’s 26 freight railroads span 3,165 miles, employ 2,561, and drive growth in manufacturing, agriculture, and forestry across the state.
- [Wisconsin](https://gorail.org/state/wisconsin) - If manufacturing and agriculture are the heart of the Badger State’s vibrant economy, then railways are the circulatory system that keeps the economy healthy and growing.
- [Illinois](https://gorail.org/state/illinois) - Illinois is literally at the center of the freight rail network, with 40 freight railroads and North America’s busiest rail hub in Chicago.
- [Idaho](https://gorail.org/state/idaho) - Since Idaho’s statehood in 1890, rail transportation has been vital to the Gem State’s growth.
- [Georgia](https://gorail.org/state/georgia) - With the most extensive rail network and largest intermodal hub in the southeast, Georgia is well positioned for success in the global economy of the 21st century.
- [Florida](https://gorail.org/state/florida) - From Florida’s Tropicana 'Juice Train' to its powerful ports, freight rail connections are essential to moving the Sunshine state’s economy.
- [Delaware](https://gorail.org/state/delaware) - With freight volumes increasing, highway congestion getting worse and not enough tax dollars to keep up with First State roadway repair needs, the benefits of shipping cargo by rail rather than road are clear.
- [Connecticut](https://gorail.org/state/connecticut) - Connecticut's eight freight railroads operate over 571 miles of track and employ 119. Connecticut needs freight rail investments to reduce transportation costs and congestion while helping the economy and creating jobs.
- [Colorado](https://gorail.org/state/colorado) - Railroads and Colorado grew up together – literally – as towns, cities and businesses sprouted and thrived along the first railroads.
- [California](https://gorail.org/state/california) - California’s 27 freight railroads span 4,985 miles, employ 6,885, and move 160.3 million tons of freight—saving 8.9 million truck trips in 2021.
- [Arkansas](https://gorail.org/state/arkansas) - Railroads help form a seamless and integrated freight transportation web in partnership with river ports and motor carriers in Arkansas.
- [Arizona](https://gorail.org/state/arizona) - Arizona’s 10 freight railroads span 1,730 miles, employ 2,455, and move 125.1 million tons of freight—saving 6.9 million truck trips in 2021.
- [Indiana](https://gorail.org/state/indiana) - Railroads played a central role in Indiana’s development and growth in the 1830s, providing vital connections to the east and west and delivering the raw materials that fueled the growth of Hoosier State manufacturing.
- [Iowa](https://gorail.org/state/iowa) - Consistently the nation’s leading corn producer, the Hawkeye State also leads the way on ethanol production at about 2 billion gallons per year.
- [Kansas](https://gorail.org/state/kansas) - Kansas is much more than just the geographic center of the national rail network.
- [Kentucky](https://gorail.org/state/kentucky) - Kentucky produced more than 1.3 million motor vehicles in 2015, with the Bluegrass State ranking first in the nation on a per capita basis in light vehicle production.
- [Louisiana](https://gorail.org/state/louisiana) - Louisiana’s railroads play an essential role in connecting local companies and communities to markets throughout North America.
- [Maine](https://gorail.org/state/maine) - Paper production remains an important part of Maine’s economy and the Pine Tree State has made a priority of improving the capacity of the rail system to link paper producers to national and international markets.
- [Maryland](https://gorail.org/state/maryland) - The nation’s first common-carrier railroad, the B&O, had its start in downtown Baltimore and was a key to keeping the state competitive in the 19th century.
- [Massachusetts](https://gorail.org/state/massachusetts) - With freight shipments increasing and highway congestion on the rise, rail offers Massachusetts a way to tackle growing demand without tying up commuters in ever worsening traffic.
- [Michigan](https://gorail.org/state/michigan) - From the auto industry and other manufacturers to mining and agriculture, Michigan’s productive freight rail network provides the key connections that keep its economy moving forward.
- [Minnesota](https://gorail.org/state/minnesota) - Responsible for over a quarter million Minnesota jobs and $40 billion of the state’s gross domestic product, freight rail plays a huge role in Minnesota’s economic success.
- [Mississippi](https://gorail.org/state/mississippi) - Growth in Mississippi auto manufacturing, shipbuilding and the energy sector are just a few examples of economic development facilitated by freight rail in the Magnolia State.
- [Missouri](https://gorail.org/state/missouri) - With large rail yards in Kansas City and St. Louis, connections to significant east-west and north-south rail lines, the headquarters of one of the nation’s largest railroads, Kansas City Southern, and significant passenger rail routes, Missouri really is at the crossroads of America’s rail network.
- [Montana](https://gorail.org/state/montana) - With the Treasure State’s population forecast to grow by more than 60 percent between 2005 and 2030, freight transportation demand can be expected to rise sharply.
- [Nebraska](https://gorail.org/state/nebraska) - Home to Union Pacific Railroad headquarters and steeped in rail history, Nebraska is a state with a deep appreciation for the many public benefits of freight rail.
- [Nevada](https://gorail.org/state/nevada) - Nevada may be land-locked, but freight rail connections are helping the Silver State attract new warehousing, distribution and manufacturing operations seeking a West Coast hub.
- [New Hampshire](https://gorail.org/state/new-hampshire) - Rail service in New Hampshire has shrunk considerably in recent decades, but the state is looking to partner with remaining Granite State railroads to rebuild.
- [New Jersey](https://gorail.org/state/new-jersey) - Freight rail plays a key role in making the Port of New York and New Jersey the East Coast’s busiest, with $208 billion in cargo moving through the port in 2014.
- [New Mexico](https://gorail.org/state/new-mexico) - Railroads have a played a substantial role in the Land of Enchantment economy since the first tracks arrived in the New Mexico Territory in 1879.
- [New York](https://gorail.org/state/new-york) - In the 19th century, it was railroads that united small towns and big cities, farms and factories and made truly New York into the Empire State.
- [North Carolina](https://gorail.org/state/north-carolina) - Freight rail connects the Tar Heel State’s ports, power plants, farms, mines and manufacturers to markets across the nation and worldwide.
- [Ohio](https://gorail.org/state/ohio) - Dating back to the 19th century, railroading in the Buckeye State was critical to economic development.
- [North Dakota](https://gorail.org/state/north-dakota) - The bounty harvested from North Dakota farms and oil fields reaches markets nationwide and around the globe thanks to freight rail’s seamless connections.
- [Oklahoma](https://gorail.org/state/oklahoma) - Freight rail brings finished goods and raw materials to Oklahoma's businesses and transports Oklahoma's products to the rest of the nation and the world.
- [Oregon](https://gorail.org/state/oregon) - With about one-third of Oregon’s economy based on goods movement, it is easy to see that freight transportation choices make a big difference to the average Oregonian’s quality of life
- [Pennsylvania](https://gorail.org/state/pennsylvania) - From a small beginning two centuries ago with a quarry railway in Delaware County, freight rail became the engine that made Pennsylvania an industrial giant in the 19th and 20th centuries.
- [Rhode Island](https://gorail.org/state/rhode-island) - In addition to playing a direct role in the revitalization of the Ports of Providence and Davisville, rail infrastructure and service improvements have also created cost effective options for other businesses and industries in the Ocean State.
- [South Carolina](https://gorail.org/state/south-carolina) - Daily express rail service from CSX and Norfolk Southern helps the Port of Charleston take advantage of the deepest water in the South Atlantic.
- [South Dakota](https://gorail.org/state/south-dakota) - For South Dakota grain, ethanol and other agricultural producers, freight rail provides the primary means of reaching export markets around the nation and across the globe.
- [Tennessee](https://gorail.org/state/tennessee) - With multiple state-of-the-art intermodal yards and a solid grounding in the “four R’s” of rail, road, river and runway, Memphis is challenging Chicago as the nation’s principal rail hub.
- [Texas](https://gorail.org/state/texas) - From energy production and manufacturing, to distribution centers and the Gulf Coast ports, freight rail is an important driver of Texas's economic future.
- [Utah](https://gorail.org/state/utah) - Utah's freight railroads operate over 1,375 miles of track and employ 1,127. Intermodal and coal are the majority of freight shipments beginning and ending in Utah.
- [Vermont](https://gorail.org/state/vermont) - Vermont’s short line and regional railroads provide vital connections to the larger North American freight rail network, linking the Green Mountain State to markets nationwide.
- [Washington](https://gorail.org/state/washington) - More than twice as export-intensive as the average U.S. state, Washington and its manufacturers, farms and communities rely on freight rail to move commodities and products from inland locations to seaports.
- [Virginia](https://gorail.org/state/virginia) - As a major port state that also serves as a crossroads for the entire Mid-Atlantic region, Virginia is looking to freight rail to help handle massive increases in freight tonnage expected over the next 20 years.

## Rail Advocates

- [Julie Kruse-John](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/julie-kruse-john) - Julie Kruse-John is the Vice President of Operations and Public Affairs at the Wake Forest Area Chamber, where she leads government affairs, economic development, and internal operations.
- [Jeff Rent](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/jeff-rent) - Jeff Rent is the president and CEO of the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership, and former senior vice president of economic development for the Greater Jackson Alliance. Jeff previously worked as the public relations manager of Mississippi Development Authority where he managed communications for the state’s lead economic and community development agency. Before joining MDA, Jeff
- [Gordon M. Johnson](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/gordon-m-johnson) - Mr. Johnson has served the 37th District in the Senate since 2021. He has served as Assistant Majority Leader since 2022 and previously served in the Assembly.
- [Mark Denzler](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/mark-denzler) - Mark Denzler is President & Chief Executive Officer of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA), a statewide advocacy organization.
- [Tom Winker](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/tom-winker) - "The math on heavier trucks simply doesn’t add up — and our communities are the ones left footing the bill." - Tom Winker
- [Joseph Alston](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/maureen-halahan) - Joseph Alston is the director of government affairs at the Business Council New York State, focusing on issues related to Housing, Construction, Transportation.
- [John Shwed](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/john-shwed) - “The rail lines that extend from Wilmington down through the Delmarva Peninsula help power the Delaware economy."
- [Donna Lupardo](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/donna-lupardo) - "Businesses large and small in the Southern Tier utilize efficient freight rail connections to reach markets across the U.S. and beyond."
- [Scott Schulte](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/scott-schulte) - "A high-functioning freight rail system helps drive the Minnesota economy by connecting business and producers, like those in our agricultural, industrial, forestry and mining sectors."
- [Kathy Edmonston](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/kathy-edmonston) - "Our railroad connections are crucial to Ascension Parish."
- [Jesse James](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/jesse-james) - "The railroad is part of the city of Altoona. This is how Altoona came to existence. I take pride in being a railroader and I take pride in protecting, educating and teaching our community about the rail."
- [Steve Moreno](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/steve-moreno) - “Rail connections are an economic catalyst for Weld County and across the state. When private railroads invest into the infrastructure that moves Colorado industries, that benefits all of us.”
- [Elizabeth “Tizzy” Lockman](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/elizabeth-tizzy-lockman) - "Freight railroads serve the Port of Wilmington, reliably and efficiently connecting our businesses and relieving congestion across the state."
- [Ryan Silva](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/ryan-silva) - “New York ‘s freight rail connections power economic development across the state, from farms to factories and all the jobs supported in between.”
- [J.D. Chaney](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/j-d-chaney) - "Because Kentucky is strategically located in the center of the nation, the quality of our transportation network helps define both the ability of local communities to compete and their overall quality of life. The backbone of this infrastructure includes a freight rail network that provides affordable and efficient service that connects our cities to customers around the world."
- [Andres Pico](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/andres-pico) - "Transportation and freight rail in particular are key components of our vital infrastructure supporting all Coloradoans."
- [Randy Maluchnik](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/randy-maluchnik) - "Freight railroads are a vital artery for Minnesota producers and consumers, connecting our industries to the nation and world."
- [Leslie Osborn](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/leslie-osborn) - "Union Pacific and Oklahoma’s 17 other freight railroads are an economic powerhouse for our local and state economies."
- [Bill Falkner](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/bill-falkner) - "The economic impact when freight railroads invest in their network reverberates across America and in cities like St. Joseph."
- [Jimmy Matlock](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/jimmy-matlock) - “The efficiency of trains is unrivaled, with one train being able to carry the freight of hundreds of trucks."
- [Jeff Zimmerman](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/jeff-zimmerman) - “There are over 76,000 logistics jobs in the Columbus region and service from two major rail corridors provides ample capacity for continued growth in multi-modal logistics.”
- [Mark Fisher](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/mark-fisher) - "The Indiana Railroad partnered with CN to develop intermodal freight rail service in 2013 and has seen year-over-year growth ever since. This builds upon an already robust service provided by CSX. Rail investments have opened doors to new export opportunities with Asia, Canada, and South America."
- [Marcus C. Evans, Jr.](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/marcus-c-evans-jr) - "With nearly 1,300 trains passing through Chicagoland each day, railroads are an economic powerhouse for our region."
- [Pete Hess](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/pete-hess) - “Freight railroads propel our local economy, operating under a self-funding model where private investments create public benefits."
- [Jarrett Smith](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/jarrett-smith) - “Maryland’s freight railroads contribute to the social vibrancy and economic stability of our region by transporting multitudes of goods to regional consumers and industry."
- [Rick Dunne](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/rick-dunne) - “Freight rail in Connecticut greatly influences our local economy and is essential to the state and national economies as well.”
- [Tim Atkinson](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/tim-atkinson) - “Oregon’s storied timber industry remains one of our state’s most important economic drivers. At the center of this success is freight rail, which is essential for delivering Oregon lumber and wood products to markets throughout the country and overseas.”
- [Kevin Mannix](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/kevin-mannix) - “Freight railroads are critically important to Willamette Valley’s farmers, growers and makers, many of which depend on reliable and efficient rail connections to take their products to markets across the nation and world.”
- [Timothy Murray](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/timothy-murray) - “We see firsthand the economic development spurred by freight rail here in Worcester at the CSX Intermodal Terminal, which connects us to shipping destinations as far as Florida and the Ohio River Valley, in addition to the larger, 140,000-mile freight rail network.
- [Chip Hallock](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/chip-hallock) - “America’s freight railroads haul the goods that we need every day.”
- [Chip LaMarca](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/chip-lamarca) - “Rail access is crucial to making Broward County’s Port Everglades even more successful.”
- [Matt Pacifico](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/matt-pacifico) - "Rail has been and continues to be an economic driver nationally and locally. Altoona, Pennsylvania has a rich history of railroading."
- [Mark Mickelson](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/mark-mickelson) - "Freight railroads annually spend billions of dollars of their own funds, not taxpayer money, to build and maintain a rail network that is critically important to farmers and elevators in South Dakota."
- [Bob Mitchell](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/bob-mitchell) - “Continued rail investment is key to continuing Houston’s prominent role in exporting American products to global markets."
- [Martin Russell](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/martin-russell) - “Many out-of-state and local companies considering expansion in Ohio demand freight rail access. Without freight rail options, our economic development and job growth opportunities would not be as successful.”
- [Mike Miller](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/mike-miller) - "At the Chamber, we know how vital it is for our local businesses to have efficient transportation options. Freight railroads stand out on this front because of their financial commitment to building and expanding the nationwide rail network, a stark contrast to our publicly funded roads and highways."
- [Casey Murdock](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/casey-murdock) - "My position as Vice Chair of the Oklahoma House’s Transportation Committee has given me a favorable view of private freight rail companies, like BNSF in our region, that invest vast sums into our communities by way of infrastructure."
- [D. Paul Sommerville](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/d-paul-sommerville) - "Freight railroads crisscross South Carolina, moving efficiently day in, day out to haul raw materials originating here, like lumber and paper, as well as finished products to the rest of the country and beyond."
- [Steve Bakken](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/steve-bakken) - "Emerging export markets around the globe are providing tremendous opportunity for North Dakota’s economy. Rail is the vital and irreplaceable economic multiplier for our farmers and energy producers to maximize the results of their hard work and innovation."
- [Gurbax Sahota](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/gurbax-sahota) - "Infrastructure is the keystone of economic development and freight rail delivers for California."
- [Andy Eads](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/andy-eads) - "Having worked in-depth on many infrastructure and economic development projects throughout Denton County, I know firsthand that a strong freight rail system strengthens our economy."
- [Larry Byrd](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/larry-byrd) - "Mississippi’s businesses, including our large agriculture, chemical and paper sectors, have long enjoyed freight rail to move goods."
- [Bentley Graves](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/bentley-graves) - The benefits of private rail investments are very real for the average Minnesotan, who, according to a recent study, gains about $2,000 extra in their salary because of freight rail.
- [Randy Gordon](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/randy-gordon) - "The Port of Long Beach is the second busiest container port in the country, accounting for 28,000 jobs. The port and the city depend upon the investments by freight railroads to connect us to the country."
- [Frank Smizik](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/frank-smizik) - “Trains are four times more fuel-efficient than trucks—with the nation’s railroads moving 40% of intercity freight while accounting for less than 1% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.”
- [Tony Roswarski](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/tony-roswarski) - "Lafayette rail-served companies like Subaru, Alcoa, and Tate & Lyle have brought thousands of jobs to our community in the last year."
- [Bill Saffo](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/bill-saffo) - "Manufacturers like our very own Vertex Rail Technologies are supported by the billions freight rail spends on its network annually."
- [Patrick Sherry, Ph.D.](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/patrick-sherry-ph-d) - "In my extensive research on transportation, workforce development and safety, I have observed freight railroads’ commitment to innovative safety programs."
- [Paul Granillo](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/paul-granillo) - “With 27,000 square miles and California’s fastest growing population, we are truly building an empire. Railroads have helped catalyze this growth and will continue to foster it as they invest substantially in the rail network that connects Inland Empire to the world.”
- [Matt Kramer](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/matt-kramer) - “Four Class I railroads privately invested more than $500 million in safety and capital improvements in Minnesota in 2015 alone."
- [Richard Alloway](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/richard-alloway) - “Freight railroads are committed to the safety of our communities.”
- [Sean Conway](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/sean-conway) - “Served by BNSF Railway, Union Pacific, and the Great Western Railway, Weld County has attracted a number of major manufacturers and distributors because of our access to the nationwide rail network.”
- [Michael McLachlan](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/michael-mclachlan) - “Many people don’t realize that freight railroads pay their own way with little help from taxpayers.”
- [Donald C. Fry](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/donald-c-fry) - “As the business representative to the home of the American rail industry, the Greater Baltimore Committee always strives to improve the competitive environment for the Class I freight railroads that service the Port of Baltimore and its inland markets.”
- [David Mayer](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/david-mayer) - “We’ve seen the economic power of rail firsthand in Gloucester.”
- [Christian Leinbach](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/christian-leinbach) - “Private sector investment in the rail network has a multiplier effect for businesses in Pennsylvania and throughout the economy.”
- [Cyndi Jantomaso](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/cyndi-jantomaso) - “Central Florida businesses and consumers benefit from the billions of private dollars spent every year by freight railroads on the rail network that connects us to the global supply chain.”
- [Tray Abney](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/tray-abney) - “The Chamber’s members are situated at the hub of an extensive transportation network with borders on five western states.”
- [Scott Schertzer](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/scott-schertzer) - "Marion's intermodal is our doorway to North America. The CSX-served Marion Industrial Center has created over 1000 jobs in our community by connecting local employers to national and global markets through efficient and affordable freight rail service."
- [Shelley Keeney Taylor](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/shelley-keeney-taylor) - “Thanks to balanced federal policies, railroads sustain over one million jobs across the economy and ensure that the goods essential to our daily lives – from food and clothing to energy and water treatment chemicals – are moved efficiently and safely.”
- [James Strickler](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/james-strickler) - “Freight railroads play an important role in the economic development of New Mexico – investing over $725 million since 2010.”
- [Robbie Brown](https://gorail.org/rail_advocate/robbie-brown) - “Freight rail infrastructure investments support the economic development of Mississippi’s towns and cities more.”

## Campaigns

- [Michael Bryan Gaynor](https://gorail.org/campaign/memoriam-michael-gaynor) - In Memoriam of Our Dear Colleague and Friend we share the passing of GoRail President Michael Gaynor following a courageous battle with cancer.
- [Celebrate Your Support for Rail: Make Your Rail Champion Badge](https://gorail.org/campaign/badger) - Show the world why you support freight rail by creating your own Rail Champion badge! It’s fast, easy, and a fun way to join a growing movement of everyday Americans who know that rail keeps our economy rolling, our roads clearer, and our communities connected. Upload a photo, choose your colors, hat, and frame—and generate your
- [Take the Rail Champions Challenge!](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions-challenge) - Normally you should see a Tripetto form over here, but it needs JavaScript to run properly and it seems that is disabled in your browser. Please enable JavaScript to see and use the form. .social-share-toggle{z-index:1 !important}
- [Rail Champions](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions) - Join the nationwide movementBecome a Rail Champion to declare that rail is essential—and that our public officials should prioritize a robust U.S. rail network. Join Us 46k+ Rail Champions Across America 5.3k Cities Represented 5.8k Counties Represented Why are you a Rail Champion? Rail Champions appreciate rail for reasons as diverse as engineering and efficiency
- [Rolling Updates](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/rolling-updates) - Rolling Updates is a quick, weekly roundup of the latest policy, economic, industry, and operational news shaping freight rail.
- [Thank you](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/thank-you) - Thank you for joining Rail Champions Together, we can make a real difference in telling the story of how rail connects America. Active on social? Social media platforms like X, Facebook, and LinkedIn are a modern tool for engaging with policymakers. If you’re in the social space and want to weigh in on an issue,
- [Join Us](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/join-us) - Join Us Join the Movement. Together, we can make a real difference. Rail Champions want to see the nation’s rail connections preserved and strengthened. Join the movement to declare that rail is essential—and that our public officials should prioritize a robust U.S. rail network.When you join Rail Champions, you’ll get access to:— Webinars on timely
- [Rail Champions Essay Contest](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/rail-champion-essay-contest) - We launched Rail Champions earlier this year to give voice to everyday Americans who love rail and believe in the importance of reliable, affordable, and efficient rail transportation. To celebrate this mission—and kick off our 2025 work of educating a new Congress—we’re launching an essay contest to hear from you!Here’s the assignment: tell us how freight
- [Take Action in Your State - Georgia](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/georgiarailchampion) - Take Action in Your State Write Your Legislators Federal policymakers face a number of challenges on the infrastructure front—from how to address highway funding shortfalls to mitigating transportation-related emissions to meeting freight demand expected to grow 30% by 2040.The good news is that rail is helping to tackle every one of these challenges.Traversing some 140,000
- [Keep Freight Rail Efficient!](https://gorail.org/campaign/sign-the-letter-urging-stb-to-scrap-forced-access) - The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB), which oversees the economic regulation of freight railroads, is considering a rule that would mandate reciprocal switching among freight railroads. They will hold a hearing in March to examine this policy of forced access. Why It Matters Forced access would compromise the efficiency of the rail network and undermine
- [Why Are You a Rail Champion?](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/why) - Why Are You a Rail Champion? Tell Your Legislators Federal policymakers face a number of challenges on the infrastructure front—from how to address highway funding shortfalls to mitigating transportation-related emissions to meeting freight demand expected to grow 30% by 2040.The good news is that rail is helping to tackle every one of these challenges.Traversing some
- [Social Action](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/social-action) - Post to your Policymakers Active on social? Social media platforms like X, Facebook, and LinkedIn are a modern tool for engaging with policymakers. If you’re in the social space and want to weigh in on an issue, here are some tips to keep in mind:Identify yourself as a constituent.Add your location (city and state) to
- [Who You Know](https://gorail.org/campaign/rail-champions/who-you-know) - Who You Know Know a policymaker? Rail Champions want to see the nation’s rail connections preserved and strengthened. Join the movement to declare that rail is essential—and that our public officials should prioritize a robust U.S. rail network.Research shows that direct constituent interactions have more influence on lawmaker decisions than other advocacy strategies. Your policymaker

## Annual Reports

- [GoRail Twenty](https://gorail.org/annual-reports/gorail-twenty) - A look back at 20 years of rail advocacy with GoRail. Visit at bit.ly/gorail-twenty
- [Report 2022](https://gorail.org/annual-reports/report-2022) - A word from GoRail Board ChairMichael Smythers VP Federal Government Affairs BNSF Railway I greatly appreciate the opportunity to assume the chairmanship of the GoRail Board of Directors heading into 2023. As vice president of federal government affairs for BNSF, I recognize and appreciate the tremendous value of GoRail advocacy efforts in support of our
- [Report 2021](https://gorail.org/annual-reports/report-2021) - A word from GoRail Board ChairJacqueline Gray Assistant Vice President, Sourcing Norfolk Southern Corporation Heading into 2022, GoRail continues to focus on its core mission of educating the public and elected officials about the many ways railroads and our suppliers contribute to the economy and enhance the quality of life for all Americans.I hope you
- [Report 2019](https://gorail.org/annual-reports/report-2019) - These are exciting and challenging times for freight railroads. We’re in the midst of transformational changes that are taking the industry...
- [Report 2017](https://gorail.org/annual-reports/report-2017) - These are exciting and challenging times for freight railroads. We’re in the midst of transformational changes that are taking the industry...
- [Report 2018](https://gorail.org/annual-reports/report-2018) - These are exciting and challenging times for freight railroads. We’re in the midst of transformational changes that are taking the industry...

## Organizers

- [Mary McKeller](https://gorail.org/organizer/mary-mckeller) - Mary McKeller is Communications Specialist at GoRail, where she leads digital communications and supports advocacy efforts that build public understanding of freight rail and its role in the nation's economy.
- [Betsy Cantwell](https://gorail.org/organizer/betsy-cantwell) - Betsy Cantwell is President at GoRail. Since joining GoRail in 2015, Betsy has lead the organization’s advocacy and communications strategy to build public and political support for freight rail.
- [Michael Gaynor](https://gorail.org/organizer/michael-gaynor) - Michael Gaynor, President of GoRail, brings 30 years of political, consulting, and nonprofit leadership, guiding advocacy across business and transportation.
- [Mike Neal](https://gorail.org/organizer/mike-neal) - As GoRail’s Midwest State Director, Mike Neal brings more than 15 years of experience across state government, regulatory oversight, political operations, and public affairs.
- [Nate Kaplan](https://gorail.org/organizer/nate-kaplan) - With a decade of experience working in the rail industry, Nate covers the Western United States and parts of New England for GoRail. His background in local, state, and federal government makes him an effective transportation and public policy leader.
- [Emily Traiforos](https://gorail.org/organizer/emily-traiforos) - Emily Traiforos joined GoRail in March 2006 and oversees its operations in the Upper Midwest and Northeast.
- [Brett Sebastian](https://gorail.org/organizer/brett-sebastian) - Brett Sebastian joined GoRail in August 2019 and oversees its operations in the Central United States and Pennsylvania.
- [Christy Sammon](https://gorail.org/organizer/christy-sammon) - Christy Sammon joined GoRail in May 2015. She has over 15 years of experience in the governmental relations field.
- [Russ McGurk](https://gorail.org/organizer/russ-mcgurk) - Russ McGurk is the immediate past president of GoRail, which he co-founded in 2004, and serves as a strategic advisor to the organization. McGurk has worked on grassroots campaigns for the freight rail industry since 1997.
- [Jackie Leggett](https://gorail.org/organizer/jackie-leggett) - Jackie Leggett is the Staff Accountant at GoRail, responsible for preparing Journal Entries, Payroll, Taxes and other duties as required.
- [Bonnie Carter](https://gorail.org/organizer/bonnie-carter) - Bonnie Carter leads finance, administration, and development at GoRail, ensuring organizational efficiency and strategic growth.

## Suppliers

- [Corpay Lodging](https://gorail.org/supplier/clc-lodging)
- [A5 Rail](https://gorail.org/supplier/a5-rail)
- [Mainline Services](https://gorail.org/supplier/mainline-services)
- [Jay-Reese Contractors, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/jay-reese)
- [Trinity Rail](https://gorail.org/supplier/trinity-rail)
- [Holman](https://gorail.org/supplier/holman)
- [Lewis Bolt & Nut Company](https://gorail.org/supplier/lewis-bolt-nut-company)
- [A. Stucki Company](https://gorail.org/supplier/a-stucki-company)
- [PwC](https://gorail.org/supplier/pwc)
- [Metro East Industries, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/metro-east-industries-inc)
- [Ferrovia, LLC](https://gorail.org/supplier/ferrovia-services-llc)
- [K-Five Construction Corporation](https://gorail.org/supplier/k-five-construction-corporation)
- [API Global Solutions](https://gorail.org/supplier/api-global-solutions)
- [AECOM](https://gorail.org/supplier/aecom)
- [Direct Chassis Link](https://gorail.org/supplier/direct-chassis-link)
- [Genesis Rail Services, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/genesis-rail-services-inc)
- [The Greenbrier Companies](https://gorail.org/supplier/the-greenbrier-companies)
- [SEMA Construction](https://gorail.org/supplier/sema-construction)
- [Omaha Track](https://gorail.org/supplier/omaha-track)
- [Railway Systems Suppliers, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/railway-systems-suppliers-inc)
- [Loram Maintenance of Way, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/loram)
- [Wabtec Corporation](https://gorail.org/supplier/wabtec)
- [NRCMA](https://gorail.org/supplier/nrcma)
- [GATX](https://gorail.org/supplier/gatx)
- [Somerville Companies](https://gorail.org/supplier/the-somerville-companies)
- [Anderzack-Pitzen Construction, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/anderzack-pitzen)
- [American Concrete Products Co.](https://gorail.org/supplier/american-concrete-products)
- [REMSA](https://gorail.org/supplier/remsa)
- [RJ Corman Railroad Group](https://gorail.org/supplier/rj-corman)
- [Amerities Holdings LLC](https://gorail.org/supplier/amerities)
- [Steel Dynamics, Inc. Structural & Rail Division](https://gorail.org/supplier/steel-dynamics)
- [TTX Company](https://gorail.org/supplier/ttx)
- [Strato, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/strato)
- [Stella-Jones Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/stella-jones)
- [Special Fleet Service, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/special-fleet-service-inc)
- [Siemens Rail Automation Corporation](https://gorail.org/supplier/siemens-rail-automation-corporation)
- [RailWorks Corporation](https://gorail.org/supplier/railworks)
- [Progress Rail Services](https://gorail.org/supplier/progress-rail-services)
- [Polivka International](https://gorail.org/supplier/polivka)
- [New York Air Brake](https://gorail.org/supplier/new-york-air-brake-llc)
- [L.B. Foster Company](https://gorail.org/supplier/lb-foster)
- [Hulcher Services Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/hulcher)
- [Holland LP](https://gorail.org/supplier/holland)
- [Herzog Companies](https://gorail.org/supplier/herzog)
- [EVRAZ North America](https://gorail.org/supplier/evraz)
- [Cranemasters, Inc.](https://gorail.org/supplier/cranemasters) - Located in Richmond, VA, Cranemasters, Inc. is an innovative leader providing solutions to customers in the railroad, specialized lifting and recovery industries. Established in 1986, the company now has more than 150 employees and specializes in crane rebuilds, emergency derailments, track construction and maintenance, bridge span repair, railcar maintenance and relocation, heavy equipment transfer and recovery, as well as load adjustment and transfer. Cranemasters built a reputation “picking heavy things up and putting them back where they are supposed to be.”
- [Amsted Rail](https://gorail.org/supplier/amsted-rail)
- [Ames Construction](https://gorail.org/supplier/ames-construction)

## Factoids

- [Factoid One](https://gorail.org/factoid/factoid-one) - 3-4x more fuel efficient than trucks. Moving freight by rail instead of trucks reduces greenhouse gas emissions an average of 75 percent.
- [Factoid on white](https://gorail.org/factoid/factoid-on-white) - 44 percent decrease in rail rates on average from 1981 to today. That means the average rail customer today can ship significantly more freight for about the same price they paid 40 years ago.

## News

- [$1.73 billion in BUILD grants awarded to 127 projects](https://gorail.org/news/1-73-billion-in-build-grants-awarded-to-127-projects)
- [USDOT opens application period for INFRA grants](https://gorail.org/news/usdot-opens-application-period-for-infra-grants)
- [Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) awarded $197,999 in competitive crossing safety awareness grants](https://gorail.org/news/operation-lifesaver-inc-oli-awarded-197999-in-competitive-crossing-safety-awareness-grants)

## Downloads

- [STR_Issue_Brief_041026.pdf](https://gorail.org/download/9197/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Alabama](https://gorail.org/download/8790/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Arizona](https://gorail.org/download/8788/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Arkansas](https://gorail.org/download/8786/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: California](https://gorail.org/download/8784/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Colorado](https://gorail.org/download/8782/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Connecticut](https://gorail.org/download/8780/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Delaware](https://gorail.org/download/8778/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Florida](https://gorail.org/download/8776/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Georgia](https://gorail.org/download/8774/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Idaho](https://gorail.org/download/8772/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Illinois](https://gorail.org/download/8770/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Indiana](https://gorail.org/download/8768/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Iowa](https://gorail.org/download/8766/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Kansas](https://gorail.org/download/8764/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Kentucky](https://gorail.org/download/8762/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Louisiana](https://gorail.org/download/8760/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Maine](https://gorail.org/download/8758/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Maryland](https://gorail.org/download/8756/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Massachusetts](https://gorail.org/download/8754/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Michigan](https://gorail.org/download/8752/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Minnesota](https://gorail.org/download/8750/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Mississippi](https://gorail.org/download/8748/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Missouri](https://gorail.org/download/8746/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Montana](https://gorail.org/download/8744/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Nebraska](https://gorail.org/download/8742/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Nevada](https://gorail.org/download/8740/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: New Hampshire](https://gorail.org/download/8738/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: New Jersey](https://gorail.org/download/8736/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: New Mexico](https://gorail.org/download/8734/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: New York](https://gorail.org/download/8732/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: North Carolina](https://gorail.org/download/8730/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: North Dakota](https://gorail.org/download/8728/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Ohio](https://gorail.org/download/8726/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Oklahoma](https://gorail.org/download/8724/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Oregon](https://gorail.org/download/8722/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Pennsylvania](https://gorail.org/download/8720/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Rhode Island](https://gorail.org/download/8718/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: South Carolina](https://gorail.org/download/8716/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: South Dakota](https://gorail.org/download/8714/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Tennessee](https://gorail.org/download/8712/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Texas](https://gorail.org/download/8710/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Utah](https://gorail.org/download/8708/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Vermont](https://gorail.org/download/8706/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fast Sheet: Virginia](https://gorail.org/download/8704/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fast Sheet: Washington](https://gorail.org/download/8702/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: West Virginia](https://gorail.org/download/8699/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Wisconsin](https://gorail.org/download/8695/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Fact Sheet: Wyoming](https://gorail.org/download/8639/?tmstv=1784057836)
- [Read the 1st Place Rail Champions Essay by Denise Pallarito](https://gorail.org/download/8612/?tmstv=1784057836) - Denise’s reflection on Otsego County’s enduring connection to freight rail offers a view into how freight rail sustains both large industries and local businesses, creating growth and opportunity. We also appreciated Denise’s description of the train whistle echoing through town as both a nostalgic reminder and a symbol of ongoing progress. As the first-place winner, Denise will receive an original piece of Rail Champions artwork by railroad artist Adam Hansen.
- [Rail Champion Visual Toolkit](https://gorail.org/download/8475/?tmstv=1784057836) - This download provides helpful assets to amplify your support for freight rail. Use these graphics and logos to engage your network, raise awareness, and show why rail matters for America.

## Sliders

- [Home Slides](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/auto-draft-2)
- [Report Sider 2023](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/report-sider-2022-duplicate)
- [Report Sider 2022](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/report-sider-2021)
- [Report Sider 2021](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/report-sider-2020)
- [Report Sider 2020](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/report-sider-2019)
- [Toolkit Slider](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/auto-draft-4)
- [Report Sider](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/auto-draft)
- [Report Sider 2019](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/report-sider-2018)
- [Report Sider 2018](https://gorail.org/fw-slider/report-sider)

## Categories

- [Agriculture](https://gorail.org/blog/agriculture)
- [Manufacturing](https://gorail.org/blog/manufacturing)
- [Intermodal](https://gorail.org/blog/intermodal)
- [Ports](https://gorail.org/blog/ports)
- [Infrastructure](https://gorail.org/blog/infrastructure)
- [Innovation and Technology](https://gorail.org/blog/innovation)
- [Positive Train Control](https://gorail.org/blog/positive-train-control)
- [Public-Private Partnerships](https://gorail.org/blog/public-private-partnerships)
- [Truck Size and Weight](https://gorail.org/blog/truck-size-and-weight)
- [Regulation](https://gorail.org/blog/regulation)
- [Safety](https://gorail.org/blog/safety)
- [Rail Suppliers](https://gorail.org/blog/rail-suppliers)
- [Sustainability](https://gorail.org/blog/sustainability)
- [Economic Impact](https://gorail.org/blog/economic-impact)
- [Policy Issues](https://gorail.org/blog/policy-issues)
- [Veterans](https://gorail.org/blog/veterans)
- [Autos](https://gorail.org/blog/autos)
- [Energy](https://gorail.org/blog/energy)
- [Trade](https://gorail.org/blog/trade)
- [Workforce](https://gorail.org/blog/workforce)
- [Nuts & Bolts](https://gorail.org/blog/nuts-bolts)
- [Advocacy](https://gorail.org/blog/advocacy)
- [Funding Opportunities](https://gorail.org/blog/funding-opportunities)
- [Service](https://gorail.org/blog/service)

## Tags

- [distributed power](https://gorail.org/tag/distributed-power)
- [innovation and technology](https://gorail.org/tag/innovation-and-technology)
- [energy](https://gorail.org/tag/energy)
- [railcars](https://gorail.org/tag/railcars)
- [flatcars](https://gorail.org/tag/flatcars)
- [caboose](https://gorail.org/tag/caboose)
- [autoracks](https://gorail.org/tag/autoracks)
- [well cars](https://gorail.org/tag/well-cars)
- [reefers](https://gorail.org/tag/reefers)
- [tank cars](https://gorail.org/tag/tank-cars)
- [boxcars](https://gorail.org/tag/boxcars)
- [hoppers](https://gorail.org/tag/hoppers)
- [gondolas](https://gorail.org/tag/gondolas)

## States

- [Virginia](https://gorail.org/rail-state/virginia)
- [Maryland](https://gorail.org/rail-state/maryland)
- [Alabama](https://gorail.org/rail-state/alabama)
- [Alaska](https://gorail.org/rail-state/alaska)
- [Arizona](https://gorail.org/rail-state/arizona)
- [Arkansas](https://gorail.org/rail-state/arkansas)
- [California](https://gorail.org/rail-state/california)
- [Colorado](https://gorail.org/rail-state/colorado)
- [Connecticut](https://gorail.org/rail-state/connecticut)
- [Delaware](https://gorail.org/rail-state/delaware)
- [Florida](https://gorail.org/rail-state/florida)
- [Georgia](https://gorail.org/rail-state/georgia)
- [Hawaii](https://gorail.org/rail-state/hawaii)
- [Idaho](https://gorail.org/rail-state/idaho)
- [Illinois](https://gorail.org/rail-state/illinois)
- [Indiana](https://gorail.org/rail-state/indiana)
- [Iowa](https://gorail.org/rail-state/iowa)
- [Kansas](https://gorail.org/rail-state/kansas)
- [Kentucky](https://gorail.org/rail-state/kentucky)
- [Louisiana](https://gorail.org/rail-state/louisiana)
- [Maine](https://gorail.org/rail-state/maine)
- [Massachusetts](https://gorail.org/rail-state/massachusetts)
- [Michigan](https://gorail.org/rail-state/michigan)
- [Minnesota](https://gorail.org/rail-state/minnesota)
- [Mississippi](https://gorail.org/rail-state/mississippi)
- [Missouri](https://gorail.org/rail-state/missouri)
- [Montana](https://gorail.org/rail-state/montana)
- [Nebraska](https://gorail.org/rail-state/nebraska)
- [Nevada](https://gorail.org/rail-state/nevada)
- [New Hampshire](https://gorail.org/rail-state/new-hampshire)
- [New Jersey](https://gorail.org/rail-state/new-jersey)
- [New Mexico](https://gorail.org/rail-state/new-mexico)
- [New York](https://gorail.org/rail-state/new-york)
- [North Carolina](https://gorail.org/rail-state/north-carolina)
- [North Dakota](https://gorail.org/rail-state/north-dakota)
- [Ohio](https://gorail.org/rail-state/ohio)
- [Oklahoma](https://gorail.org/rail-state/oklahoma)
- [Oregon](https://gorail.org/rail-state/oregon)
- [Pennsylvania](https://gorail.org/rail-state/pennsylvania)
- [Rhode Island](https://gorail.org/rail-state/rhode-island)
- [South Carolina](https://gorail.org/rail-state/south-carolina)
- [South Dakota](https://gorail.org/rail-state/south-dakota)
- [Tennessee](https://gorail.org/rail-state/tennessee)
- [Texas](https://gorail.org/rail-state/texas)
- [Utah](https://gorail.org/rail-state/utah)
- [Vermont](https://gorail.org/rail-state/vermont)
- [Washington](https://gorail.org/rail-state/washington)
- [West Virginia](https://gorail.org/rail-state/west-virginia)
- [Wisconsin](https://gorail.org/rail-state/wisconsin)
- [Wyoming](https://gorail.org/rail-state/wyoming)
- [District of Columbia](https://gorail.org/rail-state/district-of-columbia)

## Type

- [Announcement](https://gorail.org/news-type/announcement)
- [Alert](https://gorail.org/news-type/alert)

## Download Categories

- [Resource](https://gorail.org/?dlm_download_category=resource)
- [Fact Sheets](https://gorail.org/?dlm_download_category=fact-sheets)