December 2005 – Page 2 – Railfanning.org

TSA Teams With Railroads to Test Security Preparedness

December 13, 2005 Railfanning.org News Wire

WASHINGTON – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is partnering with Amtrak and three commuter railroads for a three-day pilot project to test the agency’s ability to assist State and local authorities by quickly deploying federal assets in response to a specific threat. The pilot will run from Dec. 14 through Dec. 16 and will involve Federal Air Marshals, surface transportation inspectors and TSA canine teams. Commuter railroads participating in the project are the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), SEPTA and Metrolink "In the event of an actual threat, relationships with partners like WMATA and Amtrak will be crucial for

Norfolk Southern’s ‘Best Friend’ Visits Stock Exchange for Opening Bell Ceremony

December 12, 2005 Railfanning.org News Wire

A replica of the first American-built steam locomotive was on display outside the New York Stock Exchange Dec. 12 as part of the opening bell festivities commemorating the 175th anniversary of Norfolk Southern Corp.

Cross-Tie Completes Three Years of Publishing

December 10, 2005 The Cross-Tie

Railfanning.org’s Cross-Tie publication, a monthly e-zine distributed freely to subscribers, has completed three years of publication.

Teamsters Support Rail Emergency Training Bill Introduced by Rep. Lynch

December 9, 2005 Railfanning.org News Wire

WASHINGTON – In response to a Teamsters’ report warning that the nation’s railways are still vulnerable to terrorist attacks and other emergencies, U.S. Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, D-Mass., on Dec. 6 introduced legislation that would establish a comprehensive emergency training program for all rail workers. The Teamster Rail Conference report, "High Alert," detailed an appalling lack of emergency training for workers in this post 9-11 era. Workers overwhelmingly reported that they had not received terrorism response and prevention training in the past year. "Rep. Lynch’s bill makes significant strides to correct a bad situation," said John F. Murphy, director of

Norfolk Southern Announces Planned 2006 Capital Spending

December 9, 2005 Railfanning.org News Wire

NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk Southern Corporation plans to spend $1.146 billion in 2006 for capital improvements to its railroad operations and subsidiaries. "Continuing strong demand for rail transportation is driving the need for additional investment in Norfolk Southern’s rail network," said CEO Wick Moorman. "Our 2006 capital program ensures that our network and assets continue to be well maintained and also provides for increased capacity in terms of infrastructure, locomotives and cars, and new technology. These investments will enable Norfolk Southern to maintain its safe and reliable operations while providing for further improvements in customer service and capacity for continuing

Highlighting 175 Years of Railroading, Norfolk Southern Museum Will Open December 5

December 2, 2005 Railfanning.org News Wire

Early rail, clothing, tools, locomotive parts, signage, photographs and advertisements are a few of the artifacts that will be on display when the Norfolk Southern Museum opens Dec. 5.

The Saga Continues: A Looming Strike, No Leader, Mounting Loses for Amtrak

December 1, 2005 Railfanning.org News Wire

WASHINGTON — Amtrak’s Board of Directors in early November voted to fire David Gunn, the railroad’s president. The action drew the criticism from the chairman of the House of Representatives’ Subcommittee on Railroads. “One of the board’s responsibilities is to hire Amtrak’s officers, including the President and CEO,” said Rep. Steven LaTourette, R-Ohio. “I happen to believe that Mr. Gunn was doing a reasonable job with the hand he was dealt. As matter of law, Mr. Gunn or any CEO ‘serves at the pleasure of the board.’ But there are deeper issues here, whether one is a supporter or opponent