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As Biden Pushes Major Rail Investments, Amtrak's 2035 Map Has People Talking

Laurel Wamsley

Amtrak has proposed a plan for new and enhanced rail connections across the United States. Amtrak hide caption

Amtrak has proposed a plan for new and enhanced rail connections across the United States.

When President Biden unveiled his major new infrastructure plan last week, the proposal included much more than fixing crumbling bridges. And for those who wish America had a more robust passenger train network, it gave them something new: hope.

Biden's $2 trillion infrastructure package has two provisions involving passenger rail: $85 billion to modernize public transit (commuter rail, buses, stations, etc.) and $80 billion to improve and expand the nation's passenger and freight rail network.

"You and your family could travel coast to coast without a single tank of gas onboard a high-speed train," Biden said at the plan's unveiling.

But the idea isn't just nice family trips — it's to use improved rail infrastructure and service to alleviate problems such as traffic and air pollution as well as improve access to jobs. Transportation is the largest source of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

"The American Jobs Plan will build new rail corridors and transit lines, easing congestion, cutting pollution, slashing commute times, and opening up investment in communities that can be connected to the cities, and cities to the outskirts, where a lot of jobs are these days. It'll reduce the bottlenecks of commerce at our ports and our airports," Biden said.

The White House said the rail investment would "address Amtrak's repair backlog; modernize the high traffic Northeast Corridor; improve existing corridors and connect new city pairs; and enhance grant and loan programs that support passenger and freight rail safety, efficiency, and electrification."

Amtrak quickly responded with enthusiasm to Biden's plan, with a map and a vision for what an expanded U.S. rail network would look like by 2035.

The proposed transformation would mean some 30 new routes, and more trips on 20 existing ones. It projects 20 million more people served than the 32 million that rode Amtrak in the 2019 fiscal year.

It shows an array of potential new service lines: new rail connecting all of Texas' biggest cities and new connections across the Midwest, including between Cincinnati, Columbus, Ohio, and Cleveland. In the Southeast, new routes would stretch from Atlanta to Chattanooga and Nashville, Tenn., Savannah, Ga., and Montgomery, Ala.

There would be service to every state in the contiguous U.S. but South Dakota — a fact that drew the ire of Gov. Kristi Noem, who criticized the infrastructure package.

Amtrak says better rail service means "cleaner air, less traffic, and happier people," and it points to inequality that has resulted from the country's current patchy train service: "Many of the country's biggest and fastest growing metropolitan areas, with diverse populations, don't have the rail service they deserve."

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg speaks to Amtrak employees during a February visit to Union Station in Washington, D.C. Alex Wong/Getty Images hide caption

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg speaks to Amtrak employees during a February visit to Union Station in Washington, D.C.

Cities such as Houston, Atlanta and Cincinnati currently have bare-bones Amtrak service, with trains that only stop once a day and often in the middle of the night. Major cities including Las Vegas, Nashville, Columbus and Phoenix don't have any Amtrak service at all.

And that happiness bit? Amtrak notes that in some cities, people spend more than 80 hours a year in traffic. "Population growth will make this much worse without better alternatives like rail," it warns.

Around the country, local news dug into what expanded rail could mean for their communities.

"More direct train service between Raleigh and Richmond — and cities beyond. New passenger lines running to the North Carolina coast and to the state's mountains," Raleigh, N.C.'s The News & Observer wrote .

"Prospects for a passenger rail line connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans got a boost this week," wrote the New Orleans Advocate , noting that the last passenger train to serve Baton Rouge, La., ended service in 1969.

"Amtrak may soon have the cash to install a new rail line between Las Vegas and Los Angeles," the Reno Gazette-Journal said .

"President Joe Biden's infrastructure improvement plan would bring Amtrak passenger service back to Phoenix for the first time in decades," NPR member station KJZZ noted .

And on Twitter, people started posting the rail lines they'd like to see. Like a direct route from Ohio to Florida.

Before all that can happen, an infrastructure bill will need to get through Congress. The House and Senate are both working on infrastructure bills, which are expected to include what the administration has proposed, but the process is still unclear.

For those eager for alternatives to the car, the historic proposal by a president known for his former daily commute by Amtrak from home in Wilmington, Del., to D.C. is what they've been waiting for.

"President Biden's plan would revolutionize the way Americans travel, finally launching U.S. passengers into the 21st century," said Jim Mathews, president and CEO of the Rail Passengers Association.

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December 22, 2023

Amtrak reaches next major milestone in transforming long distance train service.

Historic, multi-billion-dollar request for proposals tees up generational investment for the future of Long Distance intercity rail travel

WASHINGTON – Amtrak is taking a major step towards improving overnight, cross-country train travel by issuing a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) to railcar manufacturers to begin the replacement of Amtrak’s current Long Distance fleet.

This once-in-a-generation, multi-billion-dollar procurement will start reequipping a fleet that provides vital train service from coast to coast and is made possible through funding provided by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Congress.

“We believe in the future of our Long Distance service,” said  Amtrak Board Chair Tony Coscia . “Amtrak’s Long Distance network provides vital mobility and an economic link for communities around the country. A new Amtrak Long Distance fleet will help us modernize and transform the service to meet the needs of customers now and into the future.”

This new fleet will allow Amtrak to introduce an updated product that meets current and future market expectations, improves customer experience, reimagines onboard accessibility and mobility, improves operational efficiency, and bolsters sustainability, resiliency, and ridership.

“Procuring new equipment for our Long Distance trains is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine our iconic routes through a modern, accessible, and sustainable fleet,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris .

This step follows a formal Request for Information (RFI) issued in December 2022—sent to potential railcar builders defining and describing the scope of replacing the Long Distance fleet. Multiple suppliers responded to the RFI in early 2023, which helped to shape this RFP.

The RFP outlines requirements to improve core elements of Long Distance service, including coach seating, private rooms, food service, enhanced accessibility, and route experience. Following vendor selection, critical steps of final design, development and production are expected to occur over the next several years. Fleet deliveries are projected to begin in the early 2030s.

“The Federal Railroad Administration firmly believes that intercity passenger rail service, including Long Distance service, has an important role to play in America’s transportation network,” said FRA Administrator Amit Bose . “Millions of Americans depend on Long Distance service annually as a transportation alternative to congested highways and airports, and they deserve a modern, safe, and convenient experience.”

The Long Distance fleet replacement RFP is one of several Amtrak investments aimed at upgrading and enhancing the Long Distance customer experience —including refreshing passenger car interiors, restoring stored equipment to active service and improving stations, onboard amenities, sales and support channels. These recent highlights specifically include:

• Purchasing 125 ALC-42 Long Distance locomotives, with more than three dozen already in service. Made in the U.S., these locomotives are cleaner, faster, more fuel efficient and more environmentally friendly than their predecessors.
• Investing $28 million for interior upgrades to 400 bi-level Superliner and 49 Viewliner cars. Nearly 200 Superliner cars have been refreshed and are now in revenue service and the Viewliner refresh will begin in 2024.
• Restoring and repairing 63 idled railcars by the end of 2024.

“Designers, suppliers, and the traveling public have all been waiting for a long time for this exciting news. Issuing this RFP kicks off what will be the biggest rolling stock acquisition since the 1940s, when the New York Central turned to three manufacturers for a blockbuster order for more than 700 cars,” said Rail Passengers Association President & CEO Jim Mathews . “Rail passengers deserve a safe, modern, clean, reliable and exciting onboard experience, and today’s announcement is a vital step in ensuring that for generations to come.”

Amtrak Long Distance ridership grew by more than 12% across the network in FY23 (Oct. 2022-Sept. 2023), serving nearly 3.9 million customer trips.

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SERVICE ALERT UPDATE: As of 7:14 pm ET, all services between New York (NYP) and Yonkers (YNY) have been fully restored. Residual delays are anticipated as normal operation resumes.

SERVICE ALERT: As of 6:02 pm PT, train services traveling between New York (NYP) and Yonkers (YNY) may experience delays up to 2 hours due to a mandatory bridge inspection at the Spuyten Duyvil Bridge. We will update as more information becomes available.

UPDATE: As of 5:14 PM ET, Keystone Train 647 will terminate at Trenton (TRE) due to ongoing mechanical issues. Customers ticketed for Train 647 traveling westbound to Harrisburg (HAR) will be accommodated onto Train 651. For further assistance, please call or text 1-800-USA-RAIL.

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I'm a seasoned train traveler. Here are 5 new trains and routes around the world that I want to take in 2023.

• I've taken trains around the US, Europe, and Canada in accommodations from coach to sleeper cabins.
• In 2023, rail lines around the world are upgrading their train cars and traveling to new places. 
• Here are the 2023 trains and routes I'm most excited about, from the US to Japan.

Over the last year and a half, I've spent nearly 150 hours traveling by train, from first-class rides in the US and Italy to business-class trips around Canada, and sleeper cars through Germany and Austria.

I take more trains than anyone else I know. 

My interest in train journeys began in late 2021 with 30-hour rides between NYC and Miami in Amtrak sleeper accommodations , where I tried out the US rail line's private roomette and bedroom cabins.

A few months later, I rode in first and business class on Amtrak Acela trains between NYC and Baltimore. Then, I traveled by Amtrak to Canada and used the country's Via Rail train line to travel through the eastern provinces of Ontario and Québec.

Most recently, I traveled by train through four European countries , — Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland — trying out classes from coach to first class, and sleeper cabins.

Along the way, I've grown fond of train travel . I've found it's a sustainable way to get around the world that offers unparalleled views along the way. I'm excited to continue riding the rails in 2023 and try out new accommodations and routes.

On the East Coast of the US, Acela Amtrak trains are getting a brand new fleet in 2023.

Acela is an Amtrak express train on the East Coast with only business and first-class seating. In 2023, it's getting a new fleet of upgraded cars, according to Amtrak's website .

When I traveled in first and business class on the Acela, I thought it was a good experience, but I think its new fleet will be even better. 

Although Acela seats were large and spacious, I found that the seats in business and first class on the Acela train were stiff and uncomfortable. But the new fleet will have nearly 25% more seating, as well as brand new seats with winged headrests, according to Amtrak's website . Each seat will also include personal outlets, USB ports, and reading lights, according to the same source. 

During my first-class Acela ride, I thought that the food menu was limited but the new trains will offer a wider selection of food, too, according to the same source. 

I also experienced motion sickness on my Acela rides, but the same source says that the new Acela trains will be faster, smoother rides.

It's unclear how much these rides will cost, but in the past, I've paid $121 for a business-class ticket and an additional $152 to upgrade to first class.

Since I live on the East Coast, I will definitely be taking a new Acela train in 2023 to compare it to my previous Acela experience. 

Nightjet, an overnight train operator in Europe, is coming out with a new fleet of upgraded sleeper cabins in 2023.

Austrian Federal Railway's OBB Nightjet train is a rail line that operates overnight routes between Austria, Italy, France, and the Netherlands, and can go as fast as 143 miles per hour, according to its website .

Nightjet trains have regular assigned seats, sleeper cars with bunks of four or six, and couchette cars, which are seats that fold out into couches in shared cabins.

Next year, the rail line is upgrading its overnight trains, according to a press release from OBB Nightjet , with new, more spacious sleeper cabins that will include a seating area in addition to beds, according to the press release.

I think that's a great thing, especially because when I traveled in an OBB Nightjet shared sleeper cabin from Austria to Italy, I found it to be cramped and uncomfortable when I shared the space with six other people. 

And since I also learned during my Nightjet ride that bunking with strangers isn't for me — I need more space and privacy to be comfortable falling asleep — I'm the most excited to try Nightjet's forthcoming mini cabins for solo travelers. These sleeper cabins will be private, enclosed spaces with a storage area, an adjustable folding table with a mirror, clothing hooks, and a luggage locker, according to the press release.

Pricing for the new accommodations is not yet available online, but in the past, I paid $477 for a week-long Eurail pass and an additional $44 for a shared sleeper cabin accommodation on OBB Nightjet. 

Great Journeys New Zealand is debuting its multi-day train journeys with overnight stops in various locations.

When I heard about train operator Great Journeys New Zealand 's new multi-day tours coming in 2023, I thought it sounded like the railroad version of a cruise, except instead of sleeping onboard, the tickets include hotel stays at every stop.

With itineraries from six to 17 days, the tours link three scenic train journeys together: the TranzAlpine  from Christchurch to Greymouth, the  Northern Explorer  between Auckland and Wellington, and  Coastal Pacific from Picton to Christchurch, according to CN Traveler . 

On these trains, guests can get off the train for excursions along the route ranging from whale spotting to wine tasting, according to the same source. Some meals and activities are included in the price of the ticket, the company's website says .

These journeys cost between $3,000 and $13,000 each, according to the same source.

I would love to take one of these journeys, not only to see this part of the world, which has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, but to do it by train. I also think these itineraries would make it easy to do and see so much with little planning.

Usually, when I travel by train, I plan how I'm going to spend my time in each place separate from my rail travel. But Great Journeys New Zealand offers more of an experiential journey, in my opinion.

Japan's exclusive luxury rail journeys onboard the Train Suite Shiki-Shima is accepting international applicants for 2023. I'd love to be one of them.

Train Suite Shiki-Shima is a luxury train for sightseeing over multiple days in Japan.

The train departs from Tokyo and has 2-4 day journeys with varying itineraries from the port city of Yamanashi to the Kanto region on the pacific coast, according to the company's website .

Based on pictures I viewed online, I think the train's interior looks unique to any train I've been on or seen. There's a tree-themed lounge designed to be reminiscent of forests, as well as two observation cars with wide, geometric contoured windows, and a hand-woven carpet flooring that looks like moss. And passengers sleep onboard the train in accommodations ranging from a suite room with a private bathroom to two-story suites that include a cypress bath.

With a max capacity of just 34 passengers, these are intimate trips and tickets for these train journeys are only available by lottery, their website states .

Tickets start at $2,343.15 per person, according to Japan Rail Pass . Travelers can apply for 2023 tickets on the company's website .

I've never been to Japan, save for a layover in the airport in Narita, so I'd love to explore the country by rail. And the interior appears to be so luxurious and stunning that I wouldn't pass up the opportunity if accepted. 

The legendary Orient Express is bringing new trains to Italy with the same classic feel as the original iconic train.

The Orient Express is an iconic luxury overnight train between Paris and Istanbul that ran from 1883 to 1977, according to Britannica and CN Traveler .

Since then, versions of the Orient Express have served other routes, like London to Paris, according to the same source. In 2023, the new Orient Express La Dolce Vita will take travelers through Italy and to Istanbul, Paris, and Split, Croatia.

The design of the six new Orient Express La Dolce Vita trains is inspired by the original Orient Express with Italian accents, according to CN Traveler, and will have plush carpets, brass accents, and artwork on display.

Six trains will take six different routes around Italy as well as into France, Turkey, and Croatia, Travel and Leisure reports . For around $2,262 per night, travelers can spend 1-3 nights on the trains, according to Lonely Planet . 

Passengers will sleep onboard in private cabins in rooms with chairs that fold into beds, a private bathroom, and a dressing room, according to the company's website . The ticket price also includes all onboard meals, according to Luxury Train Club .

This trip would be a dream come true for me since I've never traveled on a luxury train, nor such an iconic one. And when I traveled by train through Italy this year, I thought it had some of the most stunning views I've ever seen from a train window. 

My 2022 train travels have awakened my adventurous side, and I can't wait to try out new routes and lines in 2023.

I traveled on more trains in 2022 than any year prior and my new experiences on the rails have only made me more interested in railroad travel. 

From taking unexplored routes to experiencing new accommodations, I hope my 2023 is filled with more train travel, both in my home country of the US and abroad, including perhaps a few — or all — of the new trains mentioned here.

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What We Know About the Railroad Labor Deal

A tentative deal averted a strike by tens of thousands of rail workers, breaking an impasse in negotiations over sick time and working conditions.

By Marie Solis

• Sept. 15, 2022

Early on Thursday morning, freight rail companies and unions reached a tentative agreement to avoid a strike that could have begun on Friday. The agreement now heads to union members for a ratification vote, a process that could take a few weeks. Workers have agreed not to strike while the vote is tallied.

The deal ended an impasse between the rail industry and tens of thousands of workers across the country, averting a shutdown of a critical network that could have made it virtually impossible to transport the vast numbers of products — from oil to grain — that are carried on trains in the United States.

In recent days, the White House has sought to avoid a work stoppage, which would have come at an inopportune time for the Biden administration and exacerbate already high inflation and disrupt Americans’ travel and businesses.

With the midterm elections approaching in November, President Biden and other administration officials have been focusing largely on the economy in their pitch to voters. A major labor strike — particularly an enduring one — would complicate his narrative about the health of the economy under his leadership. At the same time, the president has portrayed himself as an ally to labor.

What was the dispute between railroads and unions about?

The two main sticking points were scheduling and sick time . The railroad companies had been unwilling to agree to labor groups’ request that workers be able to see a doctor or attend to a personal matter without risking disciplinary action. Union representatives also said that workers often have long shifts scheduled on short notice.

What’s in the tentative deal that the railroads and unions negotiated?

The Association of American Railroads, an industry group, said in a statement that new contracts would include a 24 percent increase in wages in the five years from 2020 through 2024. There would also be a payout of $11,000, on average, when the agreement is ratified, the association said.

In addition, the agreement gives workers one additional paid day off and an ability to attend medical appointments without penalty, labor unions said, measures that are intended to ease what workers said was a rigid scheduling system that didn’t allow them to take care of their health or take personal time they needed.

The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers said the deal would also freeze workers’ monthly health care contributions, ensuring those costs would not increase during the next round of contract negotiations.

What’s at stake for travel, supply chains and inflation?

The labor negotiations did not involve Amtrak employees, but the company on Wednesday announced the cancellation of long-distance passenger trains because it uses freight tracks that could be disrupted by work stoppages. On Thursday, it said it was “working to quickly restore canceled trains.”

Rail freight is the centerpiece of the global supply chain , which has already been disrupted by the pandemic, with cargo ships, trains and trucks facing continued difficulties transporting goods. A strike would slow down the circulation of goods within the United States and with overseas trade allies.

The rail system also brings some crude oil from Canada into the United States, and helps export American gasoline and diesel to Mexico. A disruption to those movements could send gas prices, which have steadily fallen since June , back up. Fuel prices are a major driver of overall inflation.

Rail strikes: List of March and April dates and train lines affected as union reveals more industrial action

The spring season of rail disruption will kick off on 15 March with strikes on the underground, followed by RMT workers walking out on 16 March. Here's the latest on what lines will be disrupted and when.

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:58, UK

Rail workers will strike again on four dates in March and April. 

Update: RMT suspends plans for rail strikes on 30 March and 1 April

On 16 March, 18 March, 30 March and 1 April members of the Rail Maritime and Transport (RMT) Union working for 14 train companies will strike .

These walkouts will each last 24 hours , causing severe disruption to travel on the strike days and affecting journeys on the days either side.

RMT members working for National Rail will also take strike action on 16 March, running until 2am on 17 March.

On 15 March, the tube will grind to a halt as London Underground drivers, represented by Aslef, and other tube workers, represented by the RMT, walk out.

The fresh strike dates are the latest in a long-running dispute over pay, jobs and conditions that has disrupted passenger journeys since June.

In mid-February, RMT rejected the terms offered by Network Rail and 14 train operators on the grounds they "did not meet the needs of members on pay, job security or working conditions".

Here are the lines and times affected. Information will be updated as rail operators publish details:

London Underground - "little or no service is expected on the tube network" on 15 March while on 16 March services will start later than normal

London Overground - services should run as normal on 15 and 16 March but some stations may be closed and services are expected to be busier on Wednesday

Elizabeth Line - trains will be running on 15 March but will be "much busier" than normal with queuing systems possible. On 16 March some services will start later and finish earlier

DLR - services are expected to run as normal on 15 and 16 March

East Midlands Railway - the company says it is "reviewing" how the strikes will affect services, with information on timetables and ticketing available on its website soon

Great Western Railway - advises a revised timetable will be in place and some parts of the network will have no trains running

Avanti West Coast - timetable and service will be "reduced significantly", with customers told any trains that do run will be very busy

LNER - the company says it is "currently reviewing how these proposed strikes will impact our trains"

CrossCountry - the company is "currently assessing" how trains will be impacted but says a "limited service" will be in place

TransPennine Express - "no or very limited services on strike days" with customers advised to travel only if their journey is "absolutely essential". A reduced timetable the day after strikes means people should avoid travel on these days "where possible"

Greater Anglia - firm repeats its earlier advice to "avoid travelling" and that services will be "severely reduced and disrupted", with trains starting later and finishing earlier than normal

c2c - "on the c2c route, we will operate a severely reduced service with trains running between 07.30-18.30 only"

Chiltern Railways - strikes "will affect services on and around the strike days" with a different timetable on strike days

Southern Rail - the railway will have limited opening hours with customers advised to avoid travel

Great Northern - advice is the same as Southern Rail

Thameslink - firm repeats advice to avoid travel on strike days and expect disruption on the day after

Gatwick Express - "severe disruption" expected on RMT strike days.

West Midlands Railway - expects to run a "very limited service" with no trains on some parts of the network

Southeastern - there will be no Southeastern, Southern or Thameslink train services from the company's station on strike days

Northern - strike action will "significantly impact our ability to run a train service", the company says

South Western Railway - the company is "still determining" how the industrial action will impact services, with customers advised to check back on the website.

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Las Vegas-to-California high-speed rail project breaking ground

Previous coverage: bullet train from la to las vegas one step closer to reality.

Construction on a highly anticipated bullet train from LA to Las Vegas is slated to begin later this year

LOS ANGELES - Brightline West, the high-speed train project connecting Los Angeles to Las Vegas , is officially breaking ground, according to reports. 

The groundbreaking ceremony is taking place Monday, as first reported by KVVU. Those in attendance include U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Brightline founder Wes Edens, as well as state and local officials from California and Nevada.  

Construction was originally set to begin in 2020, but was halted when the company postponed a planned $2.4 billion bond sale to finance initial tracks and stations for the $8 billion project. The company blamed the delay on market instability because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Brightline, the expected travel time between Las Vegas and Los Angeles is approximately 2.5 hours. The zero-emission electric trains could carry 500 passengers at speeds of nearly 200 mph.

RELATED COVERAGE:

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Approximately 50 million one-way trips are made annually between these two destinations with 85% of them by car or bus, the company said. At full operations, Brightline expects to attract approximately 12 million one-way trips each year. 

Amenities for travelers include free onboard WiFi, ADA accessibility from station to train, a wide selection of food and drinks, checked luggage, and hotel check-in services.

The Rancho Cucamonga station will connect to Metrolink’s regional rail network, which includes stations in Los Angeles , Riverside , Orange , San Diego, and Ventura counties.

The anticipated completion date is by summer 2028, just in time for the Olympics.

Brightline currently offers rail service in Central and South Florida with stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando,

The Associated Press contributed to this report.  

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Map reveals where new rail routes could be introduced across the UK

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New and more frequent rail services could be on the way for millions of Brits, as independent operators roll out plans to launch extra trains around the country.

The Scottish city of Stirling and Carmarthen in south-west Wales are among the places that may soon have direct links to London under proposals from prospective open-access company Grand Union Trains (GUT).

It’s just one of several operators hoping to fill gaps in timetables and give rail travel a boost – while also offering lower fares.

They’ve been backed by the UK government , which says the rise of open access gives customers more choice and increases passenger numbers.

Rail minister Huw Merriman said: ‘It’s not just a question of us having rail operators compete with each other.

‘There’s an opportunity for rail to take passengers that may otherwise fly or indeed drive.

‘Open access is such a positive.’

Mr Merriman added: ‘There’s no industrial action on open-access operators, perhaps because it’s a fresher way of working with the workforce rather than on an old rule book basis.’

During recent rail strikes, companies like Lumo and Grand Central have been able to continue running services due to their separate status.

GUT is also consulting on a possible service between Edinburgh and Cardiff. There is currently no direct route connecting the Scottish and Welsh capitals.

Other would-be open-access operators include Go-Op, which aims to run services between Taunton and both Weston-super-Mare and Swindon, and Wrexham, Shropshire & Midlands Railway, which hopes to create a route between London Euston and Wrexham.

Lumo also plans to extend its route between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh to reach Glasgow, while FirstGroup wants to launch a service between the same London terminus and Sheffield.

What is an open-access rail operator?

Most of the major rail operators in the UK are either owned or paid management fees by the UK, Scottish and Welsh governments.

LNER, Scotrail, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast and many, many others fall into this category.

But the tracks can also be used by open-access operators, which set their own fares, take full commercial risk, and don’t receive any taxpayer-funded subsidies.

They include companies like Lumo, Grand Central, Heathrow Express, Eurostar and Hull Trains – with several more due to spring up soon.

Proponents say the availability of these other options increases competition which drives down fares.

But critics argue that the companies are simply taking advantage of a ‘false economy’, and it would be better for passengers if the large operators just simplified their timetables.

Grand Central managing director Ian Yeowart said: ‘It’s not only good for passengers – as whether (the operators) survive depends on how good they are and what their customers think – but there are no handouts from the government.

‘Like every other business, if people don’t like it and don’t come, it won’t survive.’

But Gareth Dennis, an engineer who writes about the rail industry, said open-access services should not be permitted in the UK because of the complexity of fitting the trains into already crammed timetables.

He said: ‘The argument on the Continent for open access operators is that they provide competition, but there’s no meaningful competition on a rail network that’s as saturated as ours.

‘What you need is a simple, repetitive timetable that moves huge numbers of people.’

Mr Dennis argued that the operators could charge lower fares because they use depots that exist for other companies and can recruit staff that had been trained already rather than training their own.

He added: ‘It’s a false economy really.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Explore the Top 10 Rail Industry Trends in 2024

How will emerging technologies impact the future of rail transportation? Explore our in-depth industry research on 1633 rail startups & scaleups and get data-driven insights into technology-based solutions spanning autonomous trains, decarbonization, passenger experience, AR/VR & more!

Rail transportation is undergoing significant changes in response to the growing demand for fast transportation between and inside cities and countries. The major rail industry trends involve drones and smart sensors for inspecting railway tracks, digital communication platforms, and automatic train control (ATC). Notoriously slow to implement modern technologies, rail tech startups are working to scale various solutions that look to combine biometric information, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing.

For train operators and railroad companies, the Internet of Things (IoT) devices enable the implementation of predictive maintenance to monitor for any anomalies. In addition to condition-based monitoring, newer rail industry trends such as rolling stock hybridization and high-speed rail also contribute to the growing pool of future-looking railway technologies. This report was published in December 2020 and updated in August 2023.

Top 10 Rail Industry Trends (2024)

• Autonomous Trains
• Internet of Trains
• Artificial Intelligence
• Decarbonization
• Rail Connectivity
• Passenger Experience
• High Speed Rail
• Rail Automation
• Big Data & Analytics
• Augmented & Virtual Reality

Innovation Map outlines the Top 10 Railway Trends & 20 Promising Startups

For this in-depth research on the Top Railway Trends and startups, we analyzed a sample of 1633 global startups & scaleups. This data-driven research provides innovation intelligence that helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you an overview of emerging technologies in the railway industry. In the Rail Industry Innovation Map below, you get a comprehensive overview of the innovation trends & startups that impact your company.

These insights are derived by working with our Big Data & Artificial Intelligence-powered StartUs Insights Discovery Platform , covering 3 790 000+ startups & scaleups globally. As the world’s largest resource for data on emerging companies, the SaaS platform enables you to identify relevant technologies and industry trends quickly & exhaustively.

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Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Rail Industry Trends

Based on the Rail Innovation Map, the Tree Map below illustrates the impact of the Top 10 Rail Industry Trends in 2024. Startups and scaleups are working on developing new autonomous train systems that will increase the efficiency and reliability of railway transportation. These systems rely heavily on the development of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and connectivity technologies. Additionally, the zero-emissions initiatives drive the rail industry towards the implementation of decarbonization strategies.

Global Startup Heat Map covers 1633 Rail Startups & Scaleups

The Global Startup Heat Map below highlights the global distribution of the 1633 exemplary startups & scaleups that we analyzed for this research. Created through the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform , the Heat Map reveals that Europe is home to most of these companies while we also observe increased activity in India as well the USA.

Below, you get to meet 20 out of these 1633 promising startups & scaleups as well as the solutions they develop. These new technologies in railway systems were hand-picked based on criteria such as founding year, location, funding raised, and more. Depending on your specific needs, your top picks might look entirely different.

Interested to explore all 1600+ rail startups & scaleups?

Top 10 Trends & Innovations in the Rail Industry (2024)

1. autonomous trains.

Enabled by advanced sensor technology and real-time data transmission, the autonomous train is an effective solution for improving punctuality, reliability, and capacity optimization in the railway industry. Upgrades to signaling technology and automatic train control (ATC) systems reduce technical errors, improve traffic information flows, and reinforce passenger confidence in rail transit. For example, a grade-of-automation 4 (GoA4) system autonomously handles emergency situations and obstacle detection, as well as controls the train’s speed, brakes, and doors.

OTIV – ADAS for Light Rail

Belgian startup OTIV develops advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and full self-driving (FSD) solutions for light rail and shunting operations. The startup uses artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning, computer vision, and sensors to develop the zero-emission OTIV Light Rail Vehicle System , adapting locomotives to urban environments. Equipped with object detection and collision avoidance technologies, ADAS and FSD systems further increase the safety and efficacy of rail transport.

GEAR International Holdings – Integrated Signaling

South African startup GEAR International Holdings provides integrated railway signaling solutions. The system uses train location information for interlocking and enables communications-based train control (CBTC). Additionally, the movement and interlocking of trains are integrated with wayside signaling control systems. The startup’s signaling solutions ensure safety, optimize train movement, and maximize the use of platform availability.

2. Internet of Trains

The internet of trains greatly impacts the reliability and safety of railway infrastructure. Condition-based monitoring prevents delays resulting from track and train part failures, which optimizes maintenance efficiency and costs, as well as improves passenger satisfaction. Additionally, IoT-enabled advanced analytics allows railway operators to find data-driven solutions to improve fleet control and rail operations efficiency.

TRAINFO – Railroad Crossing Monitoring

Canadian startup TRAINFO offers a cost-effective solution that helps reduce traffic delays at railroad crossings. The startup uses train sensors, Bluetooth, and prediction software to determine when to open and close rail crossings. This information is then conveyed to drivers through information systems, such as roadside signage, mobile apps, or traffic signaling. The startup’s solution also aids city planning officials when designing and operating railway crossings and other infrastructure.

HUM Industrial Technology – Predictive Monitoring & Fleet Tracking

The US-based startup HUM Industrial Technology offers predictive monitoring solutions to railroad shippers and railcar owners. The startup uses wireless IoT sensors for automated safety monitoring and prediction of wheel and bearing failure, as well as detection of oil or gas leakages. Additionally, the startup provides a live global positioning system (GPS) tracking solution offering a comprehensive overview of fleet location and history. The startup helps rail operators reduce maintenance costs by enabling early detection of potential failures.

3. Artificial Intelligence

AI finds numerous applications within the railway industry, encompassing asset management, predictive maintenance, and emergency notification. Deep learning algorithms and neural networks optimize train scheduling and minimize delays . Moreover, advanced passenger information systems improve transportation services and increase passenger satisfaction.

The Train Brain – AI-Enabled Traffic Planning and Control

Swedish startup The Train Brain develops AI models that improve the reliability of public transportation. The startup’s tool delivers delay forecasting, as well as real-time traffic simulations and reporting. The tool processes train schedules and signaling or global positioning system (GPS) data to conduct rail network forecasting. The Train Brain enables rail operators to make data-driven traffic planning decisions and passengers to be more informed when planning their commute or travel.

Cedar AI – Rail Yard Operations

US-based startup Cedar AI offers artificial intelligence solutions to help rail operators improve yard efficiency. The startup’s AI-powered platform integrates with existing software to ensure safety rule compliance during rail yard operations. The platform helps rail operators optimize yard processes and reduce workload while also improving the safety of train handling.

4. Decarbonization

Although railways are the most sustainable form of transportation, following ambitious net-zero emissions plans , governments are looking to further decarbonize the rail industry. The most common decarbonization solutions include replacing diesel trains with battery technology, hydrogen fuel cells, or electric trains. To further minimize CO2 emissions, rail operators deploy electric locomotives that use energy from renewable sources, such as solar or wind.

Core Environmental Systems – Battery Power Solutions

Australian startup Core Environmental Systems offers energy storage solutions to communities and end-users across industries, including railways. The startup’s Enviro Cell – Rail , designed specifically for the demands of the rail industry, solves the crank power shortages of traditional batteries. In the process, the startup reduces, and sometimes eliminates, monetary losses for rail operators and simultaneously increases the efficiency of rail transportation.

Hoeller Electrolyzer – Electrolysis Stacks for Hydrogen

The US-based startup Hoeller Electrolyzer provides polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysis stacks for the manufacturers of green hydrogen systems. The startup offers its Prometheus Electrolysis-Stacks to optimize hydrogen fuel cell storage capabilities in electric and hybrid locomotives. This optimization increases the maximal output of PEM electrolysis and also lowers the costs of storing green hydrogen.

5. Rail Connectivity

Modern railway mobile communications systems, enhanced with 5G technologies, allow for low-latency communications and high performance, as well as the reliability of railway infrastructure. Further, communications-based train control (CBTC) enables efficient rail traffic management and asset monitoring. Train connectivity applications span train positioning, control, maintenance, passenger experiences, and passenger data collection.

Cnection – Automatic Vehicle Identification Software for Locomotives

UK-based startup Cnection offers Rail AVI – an automatic vehicle identification system to electronically track trains as they pass along the network. Cnection develops software that performs complex translation algorithms, which is useful for monitoring train movements across the rail network.

As trains pass by fixed trackside readers or handheld devices, the tags harvest radio energy from the reader and transmit a unique vehicle ID back within a second. Overall, Rail AVI provides an efficient electronic means of automatically identifying trains without slowing them down.

Passengera – Onboard Connectivity

Czech startup Passengera develops a platform that provides Wi-Fi connection and infotainment for railway passengers. The startup’s connectivity solution gives passengers access to onboard entertainment, and news, as well as travel and accommodation information via smart devices or laptops. Additionally, the startup’s connected solutions support the train’s passenger information and ticketing systems, route information, and CCTV cameras.

6. Passenger Experience

To improve passenger experience , rail companies employ automatic ticketing and video surveillance, set up train delivery services, and create train hotel experiences. Video surveillance detects theft and helps optimize passenger load. Further, smartphone and mobile apps automate ticketing and price comparisons for passengers and rail companies. Onboarding systems further improve last-minute booking, and identification control, as well as seat assignments, and infotainment systems engage passengers during travel. To further simplify the ticketing process, as well as passenger identification, companies employ biometric ticketing solutions.

GoWith – Seat Allocation Platform

Israeli startup GoWith develops a seat allocation platform for railway companies. The startup’s software-as-a-service (SaaS) RideWith solution allows companies to create specific zones in a train. In particular, the zones may include silent and family-oriented environments, and casual or business areas, improving passengers’ riding experience.

RailRestro – Food Delivery to the Train Seat

Indian startup RailRestro offers food delivery services to train passengers. The startup’s online service allows contactless delivery to the passenger’s train seat from a range of accredited restaurants. The startup gives passengers an opportunity to transform a train ride into a culinary experience.

7. High Speed Rail

The development of high-speed rail systems is aimed at making the transportation of people and goods more efficient and frequent. HSR encompasses high-speed train and line design and construction. In particular, companies focus on both the adaptation of the existing infrastructure and the development of new high-speed systems such as hyperloop, which are capable of exceeding the speed of 1000 km per hour.

Zeleros – Autonomous Hyperloop Vehicles

Spanish startup Zeleros designs electric-powered autonomous hyperloop vehicles and infrastructure. The vehicle, driven by an electric powertrain, uses active magnetic levitation technology. Additionally, the startup develops an electric aerodynamic propulsion system for the vehicle to reduce the need for placing linear motors along the track and an electromagnetic launcher for vehicle range optimization.

NEVOMO – Passive Magnetic Levitation Train

Polish startup NEVOMO develops a magnetic rail system capable of reaching up to 550 km per hour. The train uses passive magnetic levitation and linear motor technology to further improve the transportation of people and goods. The startup’s technology allows the new-concept trains to operate on existing tracks alongside the conventional trains. Additionally, NEVOMO develops plans for enabling hyper-rail and hyperloop technologies.

8. Rail Automation

The automation of the railway industry goes beyond autonomous train operations (ATO). Startups and scaleups develop robotic systems for infrastructure cleaning and maintenance and drone technology for remote inspection. Additionally, traction control automation prevents delays and improves the safety of rail infrastructure. Smart rail automation helps railway companies optimize asset efficiency, monitoring, and maintenance, delivering improved experience and rail reliability for passengers.

RMT – Intelligent Track Video Analysis Systems

RMT is an Italian startup that offers RailScan . It is an intelligent track video analysis system for the automatic detection and classification of railway road equipment. RailScan detects missing, misaligned, broken, melded, or peeled track components including rail, fasteners, fish plates, and bolts. By leveraging high-resolution data, RailScan scans both the sides and top of the two rails. The automation of the visual inspection processes allows rail operators to efficiently maintain railway infrastructure.

Laser Precision Solutions – Rail Track Maintenance

Dutch scaleup Laser Precision Solutions develops laser technology solutions for track maintenance. The scaleup’s product, LaserTrain , addresses the low railhead adhesion issue that causes train delays due to autumn leaf deposits on the track. TriboMeter is another solution to measure real-time friction between the track and the train enabling the optimization of acceleration and energy consumption. By improving traction, the solutions reduce train delays and cancellations, as well as improve overall rail safety.

9. Big Data & Analytics

The use of big data in the railway sector paves the way for train communication, predictive analytics, asset management, passenger information systems, and data management platforms. By deploying smart railway sensors, millions of data points are gathered and analyzed to further improve the safety, security, and reliability of rail infrastructure. The ability to predict failures further allows rail operators to plan repairs, increasing the availability of rail. Startups and scaleups are developing IoT sensors to collect data for rail infrastructure, including railcars, tracks, and signaling units.

Raildiary – Project Management System

British startup Raildiary provides a data tracking platform for railway construction companies. The startup develops the Sitediary app, a platform for railway project management and analysis. The startup’s solution finds applications in rail, including maintenance, signaling, and electrification, as well as fatigue and emergency management. The solutions optimize the efficacy of rail construction projects to minimize delays, resource waste, and unnecessary costs.

Everysens – Railway Traffic Management

French startup Everysens provides Traffic Management System (TMS) solutions to railway shipping and freight forwarding companies. The startup’s proprietary platform, TMS Rail , combines AI and IoT to provide a real-time TMS solution for rail operators. The platform allows operators to make processes more efficient to eventually optimize end-to-end rail operations.

10. Augmented & Virtual Reality

The applications of mixed reality in the rail industry span personnel training, design visualization, and customer engagement. Interactive train windows provide infotainment and route information while augmented reality (AR) mobile apps allow passengers to take part in rail infrastructure design. Additionally, virtual reality (VR) headsets make training more immersive and informative. AR and VR solutions allow railway companies to reduce personnel training costs and improve passenger satisfaction and loyalty, increasing their sales.

VTrain – VR Platform to Train Transportation Workers

Uzbekistan-based startup VTrain is developing a no-code, VR education platform to quickly and cost-effectively train transportation workers. The platform allows users to easily create VR courses using predefined assets and scripts without coding. The solution also features custom modules that administrators can use to expand the functionality of the training. VTrain also provides a dashboard for trainers to manage the progress of learners.

VRTECH – Personnel Training

Dutch startup VRTECH offers VR design, demonstration, and training systems for personnel development and marketing. The startup develops a number of rail simulations to improve the skills of train inspectors and engineers. The startup also provides a railway station design simulation showcasing future services. This tool also allows passengers to experience various features of the station infrastructure.

Discover all New Rail Technologies, Trends & Startups

The rail trends and startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our in-depth research. Among others, IoT-based communication technologies, AI, and high-speed rail advancements will transform the sector as we know it today. Identifying new opportunities and technologies to implement into your business early on goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage. Get in touch to easily and exhaustively scout relevant technologies & startups that matter to you.

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22 Epic American Train Journeys You Won't Forget

Posted: April 21, 2024 | Last updated: April 21, 2024

Exploring America's railroads

The US is prime road-trip country but, to get the best views and the most relaxing experience, you really can't beat a trip on one of America's railroads.

Read on as we round up our favorite journeys from across the land, taking in everything from epic cross-country escapes to short-run heritage routes in beautiful natural surroundings. 

Rocky Mountaineer: Rockies to the Red Rocks

A new Rocky Mountaineer route takes passengers on an exciting two-day journey between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah, with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The Rockies to the Red Rocks was launched in August 2021 and all packages include meals onboard as well as accommodation in Moab, Glenwood Springs and Denver. 

California Zephyr: Chicago, Illinois to San Francisco, California

Whichever way you travel – Chicago to San Francisco or vice-versa – the 2,438-mile (3,924km), 51-hour cross-country journey on the California Zephyr is a breathtaking experience. From the impossibly majestic mountain ranges of the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada to the vast expanse of the Utah desert, the route offers stunning scenery from start to finish.

There's a variety of accommodation on the train, from coach class seats to superliner bedroom suites, and travelers in private rooms have access to flexible dining that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and a wide selection of drinks. A ride in the observation car, called Sightseer Lounge, is an unmissable experience, especially when passing through the rocky Colorado scenery.

Pacific Surfliner: San Diego to San Luis Obispo, California

The Pacific Surfliner skirts 350 miles along California’s Pacific Coast between San Diego and San Luis Obispo. Skimming the gleaming coastline and the Pacific Coast Highway, the Surfliner passes the narrow Simi Valley towards the Santa Susana Mountains and the Simi Hills. Leaving Los Angeles, the train then runs parallel with the Old Pacific Highway before re-joining the Californian waves and various coastal towns and nudging into San Diego.

The full journey takes just over eight hours. Normally, the route offers 13 daily round-trip services between San Diego and Los Angeles, five to Santa Barbara and two to San Luis Obispo, so travelers can be flexible with their itinerary. Schedules have recently changed and the service is also impacted by track closures so do check for updates before booking.

Cape Cod Central Railroad: Hyannis to Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts

A heritage railway dating back to the mid-1800s, the Cape Cod Central Railroad offers scenic excursions, swanky dining journeys and special events from May to October. The standard circular two-hour trip starts from Hyannis, known as the Capital of the Cape. It winds its way through the quaint villages of West Barnstable and Sandwich (the oldest on the Cape), along the Cape Cod Canal and across the landmark Buzzards Bay vertical lift bridge.

On the way, travelers see sand dunes, salt marshes and cranberry bogs and hear fascinating commentary about Cape Cod Canal and other points of interest. Tickets are available on the company's website.

Cardinal: New York City, New York to Chicago, Illinois

Cardinal, Amtrak’s thrice-weekly service, takes travelers overnight from New York City to Chicago, calling in at Washington DC, Charlottesville, Cincinnati and Indianapolis. Three other routes connect these busy cities, but the Cardinal is easily the most scenic of them all. The views get especially arresting across the Shenandoah Valley, over the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny range, before winding through West Virginia’s gorgeous New River Gorge.

Heading westward, the train rolls along the banks of the Ohio River to the skyline of Cincinnati. From there, the journey continues via Indianapolis, before wending its way up to Chicago in time for breakfast. There's a wide range of accommodation and dining options available – check the Amtrak website for current information on service times and amenities offered.

Grand Canyon Railway: Williams to Grand Canyon Village, Arizona

The trip on the Grand Canyon Railway begins in Williams, a small town 30 miles west of Flagstaff. Meandering its way through ponderosa pine forests and open prairie, the train terminates in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, before heading back to Williams. The train departs at 9.30am daily.

Those who pick the Dome car will have access to a private bar service with incredible views on the side. Opt for the luxury Parlor and you'll be able to step out onto the open-air rear platform and see the changing landscape from a different perspective. Passengers can keep their eyes peeled for wildlife including elk, mountain lions, mule deer, bald eagles and horned owls too.

Strasburg Rail Road, Pennsylvania

America’s oldest operating railroad, the Strasburg Rail Road first puffed off the buffers in 1832. Today it takes its passengers on a whistle-stop tour through Pennsylvanian Amish country. Touring the farmlands of Lancaster County, tended by the Amish, the regular excursion is a short but sweet 4.5 mile journey each way.

Four steam locomotives still pull original rolling stock on the 45-minute round trip to and from Paradise, and an audio commentary dispenses nuggets of knowledge on the nation’s oldest continuously operating short line railway. There are typically numerous special outings, such as the Wine & Cheese ride, themed dinner trains and unique friends and family experiences, like escape rooms, trivia nights and even a cabaret. Keen trainspotters can also look out for the Amtrak trains racing past on a parallel line.

Southwest Chief: Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California

The Southwest Chief train beats a 40-hour-journey through the American West, escorting travelers from the shore of Lake Michigan to the Pacific Ocean. It passes through eight states and calls in at Kansas City, Albuquerque and Flagstaff along the way. The epic journey is often billed as Amtrak's most scenic and crosses the Mississippi, sweeping past wheat fields, pueblos, peaks and deserts.

The train, departing three times a week, carves its way through canyon passages so narrow you could almost touch the walls as you pass. The Chief also follows the weathered wagon path of the old Santa Fe Trail – an experience impossible to recreate on the road. Passengers might have to hustle for a spot in the Observation Car to soak up the best views, but it's well worth it. 

Coast Starlight: Los Angeles, California to Seattle, Washington

The Coast Starlight is a wonderful 35-hour journey, linking some of the West Coast’s finest cities, including Los Angeles, Oakland, Portland and Seattle. Soon after leaving LA’s sprawl behind, the Starlight treats travelers to some of the most glittering Californian views on the Pacific Coast. After that, there’s the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, lush forests and fertile valleys to enjoy.

The train departs daily (check the Amtrak site for details) and is grouped among the most spectacular train routes in America. As with all long-distance Amtrak trains, there's a wide range of accommodation available, as well as the Sightseer Lounge to soak in those sparkling views of the Pacific shoreline.

Tennessee Valley Railroad, Tennessee

The Tennessee Valley Railroad is a rolling museum of vintage trains, offering a variety of trips that show what traveling was like during the Golden Age of Rail. Excursions include a 50-mile half-day round trip to the Hiwassee Loop from Etowah, as well as a six-hour tour of the historic Civil War town Chickamauga, Georgia, via the former Central of Georgia Railroad.

The Copperhill Special ride heads south, winding up in the twin towns of Copperhill, Tennessee and McCaysville, Georgia by lunchtime, before returning in the afternoon. Meanwhile, the Summerville Steam Special follows a historic nine-hour route from Grand Junction depot in Chattanooga, Tennessee to Summerville, Georgia and back. Trains run on select dates from April to November. 

Cass Scenic Railroad, West Virginia

The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is a charming lumber heritage railroad in the mountains of West Virginia's Pocahontas County. The 11-mile each way route takes in gorgeous country views and the historic company town of Cass. Steam locomotives whisk passengers to the summit of Bald Knob, the highest point on Back Allegheny Mountain, on a 4.5-hour round trip. Passengers ride on open-sided log cars and a traditional "King of the Road hobo lunch" (meat and potatoes cooked in foil) is served on board after passing Old Spruce junction.

There's a 30-minute layover at Bald Knob, 4,842 feet (1,476m) above sea level. One of West Virginia's highest mountains, it's the perfect spot to enjoy fine views across two states. Back in Cass, a company town founded in 1901 by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company, passengers can soak up the atmosphere and imagine it in its logging heyday.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado

The coal-fired locomotives are originals from the 1880s and the route follows in the tracks of countless miners, cowboys and gunslingers from the Old West. There are four classes to choose from during the summer season from May through to October. Check the company's website for the latest information.

Adirondack: New York City, New York to Montréal, Canada

The train leaves daily from NYC's Penn Station and the morning departure is perfect for taking in the views as you head north – fall is the best time to travel to witness the colorful trees lining the tracks in all their splendor. Check the Amtrak site for the latest updates. 

Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire

The Mount Washington Cog Railway, the first of its kind in the world, runs scenic rides to the summit of Mount Washington. Located in stunning Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, in the heart of the White Mountains, this National Historic Engineering Landmark is certainly a fun way to discover rural New England. Passengers ride in brightly colored vintage cars from 1869 and three-hour round trips depart daily from May to October.

Thick forest gives way to rough terrain as the train chugs along the roughly 3.5-mile track, at a 37% gradient at certain points. At the summit, travelers have an hour to walk around the Sherman Adams Visitor Center and visit its Cog Railway Museum. Weather permitting, the 360-degree views embrace five states, Canada and the Atlantic.

Crescent: New York City, New York to New Orleans, Louisiana

Amtrak’s Crescent train ties together two great and vastly different cities: New York and New Orleans. The 30-hour journey kicks off from New York City’s Penn Station, rattling its way down through some of the most populous cities of the northeast corridor in an afternoon, including Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington DC. On the second day the views get more scenic: travelers pass through forests of dogwood trees into the Deep South via Atlanta and Birmingham, Alabama before arriving in the Big Easy in the late evening.

Departing three times a week, the journey is at its best in summer, when passengers in the Lounge Car are normally joined by guides from the National Park Service, who are able to share plenty of interesting facts about the points of interest along the way. Check the Amtrak website for the latest updates. 

Redwood Forest Steam Train, California

California’s Roaring Camp Railroads offers two contrasting heritage services, both of which are great fun. Their Redwood Forest Steam Train experience offers the chance to ride on a narrow-gauge steam train over trestle bridges and through towering redwoods. The train is pulled by one of the original 1890s narrow-gauge steam locomotives that were used to haul the giant redwood logs out of the mountains, and are among the oldest and most authentically preserved in America.

The train travels from Felton in the Santa Cruz Mountains to the summit of Bear Mountain for 75 breathtaking minutes. Conveniently, conductors are on hand to narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad and the forest. Adults can typically book an Engineer For The Day experience and ride in the cab to assist in the locomotive's running, while little ones will love a day out with Thomas the Tank Engine.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, North Carolina

All the GSMR's excursions leave from Bryson City and there's a choice between steam or diesel locomotive journeys. As well as the standard scenic excursions, there are also special events for kids such as PEANUTS Easter Beagle Express and PEANUTS The Great Pumpkin Patch Express. The summer season runs between March and November, while the steam train journeys run from June to December – check the GSMR website for the latest information.

White Pass & Yukon Route, Alaska

The snow-dusted mountains, pink and yellow wildflowers and rambling hills along the White Pass and Yukon Route appear almost Alpine – but they're actually a snapshot of Alaska's wilderness. The railroad has its roots in the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century, when it was constructed to help gold prospectors get out of Skagway and into Canada. Today, the 110-mile stretch can be traveled in vintage cars via two excursions. On the journey, passengers take in a panorama of mountains, glaciers, gorges and waterfalls.

The two-and-a-half-hour Summit Excursion retraces the original route to the White Pass Summit, 3,000 feet above sea level. It's scheduled to run between April and October and tickets are already available to book. The eight-hour Bennett Scenic Journey between Skagway, Alaska, and Carcross, Yukon in Canada travels along the same route taken by gold prospectors.

Empire Builder: Chicago, Illinois to Portland or Seattle, Washington

The Empire Builder is yet another of Amtrak’s epic cross-country routes covering vast swathes of the USA and incredibly varied terrain. There’s a historic dimension to the journey too, since the train follows portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail. Departing from Chicago, travelers glide past the Mississippi River before hitting the illuminated night skyline of Minneapolis and St Paul.

The 46-hour journey takes travelers through the North Dakota plains and through Glacier National Park towards Spokane on day three. From there the route forks: there's a Portland option, heading down through the Columbia River Gorge past sublime views of Mount Hood and Beacon Rock, or a journey to Seattle via Leavenworth, dubbed The Bavarian Village. Trains depart daily – visit the Amtrak website for the latest information.

Denali Star: Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska

Passengers can typically pair their train journeys with day trips in Talkeetna, an excursion in Denali National Park, or even plan a multi-day itinerary with overnight stays along the way. In addition to the standard stops, the train will provide a flagstop service between Talkeetna and Hurricane. The trains depart daily between May to September. 

Napa Valley Wine Train, California

It isn’t just about the wine, though. There’s a lot of history packed into these century-old railcars, which trundle elegantly along a route stretching back more than 150 years. The carriages, with opulent velvet-upholstered seats, mahogany paneling and brass, have been sensitively restored to evoke the glamor of vintage train travel.

Sky Railway, New Mexico

Sky Railway in New Mexico is a heritage line that's recently gotten a new lease of life, with new routes debuted in December 2021. The 141-year-old Santa Fe Railway was saved by a group of enthusiasts ( Game of Thrones author George RR Martin among them) in 2020 and now the historic rail line has been turned into a fantasy-filled adventure ride.   

Departing from Santa Fe, adventures range in length and offers a wide range of themes, from culinary experiences to an opportunity to journey back in time to the days of the Wild West. Guests can also do a murder mystery or board the StarGazer Express at night to take in the glorious celestial show the Galisteo Basin offers.

Now discover beautiful rail journeys that don't cost a fortune

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The Canada Coast to Coast by Train  adventure is an unforgettable journey aboard the historic trans-Canadian railway that offers a unique perspective of the Great White North.

The adventure begins in Halifax , where you can spend your day taking a scenic harbor cruise, or just wandering charming cobblestone streets and enjoying colourful maritime architecture.

Whatever you do, just don't forget to dine on some freshly-caught lobster.

You'll spend day two continuing your exploration of Canada's east coast, getting lost along Nova Scotia's rugged coastlines and checking out quaint  fishing villages and iconic Canadian landmarks, like picture-perfect Peggy's Cove.

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From there, the trip unfolds over 20 days, with seven spent onboard and the rest exploring some of Canada's most beautiful destinations, with lodging in hotels along the way, handpicked by travel experts.

As the train passes through the Maritime provinces, you can expect scenic rural landscapes and brief glimpses into  small towns en route to their next stop in  Canada's most European City , Quebec City, full of old-world charm and vibrant culture.

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Next up on the trip is Montreal , where you'll have a chance to wander through the historic streets of Old Montreal, dine in world-renowned restaurants, and explore the city's vibrant nightlife scene .

On the eighth day, you'll arrive in Toronto where you can opt for a guided tour of the city or a daytrip to Niagara Falls , before it's time to reboard and journey westward for three days through Canada's prarie provinces.

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Alberta is your next stop, where the next few days of your trip will be filled with adventure and luxurious relaxation , all while surrounded by crisp mountain air, starting with  Jasper National Park .

During your time in the Rocky Mountains, you'll be escorted on a  picturesque journey from Jasper to Lake Louise via one of North America's most scenic routes , the Icefields Parkway.

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Maybe you'll marvel at Lake Louise's stunning turquoise waters and glacier-draped peaks? Or, make some memories during  leisurely moments lakeside , take a tranquil stroll, or explore charming boutiques and restaurants. 

Then it's on to Banff National Park, where you'll have some pre-selected options of expereicnes to choose from like sightseeing tours, cowboy cookout lunches, and horse-drawn wagon rides. 

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The final leg of the journey brings you into Vancouver , one of the country's most diverse cities where you can finish up your nation-wide tour by exploring vibrant Canadian culture, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. 

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This incredible adventure package by  Fresh Tracks Canada offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to discover the beauty of Canada's natural wonders and rich cultural heritage... from coast to coast.

Rocky Mountaineer

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Commission offers 35,500 DiscoverEU free travel passes to young people

Starting this summer, thousands of young people will once again travel around Europe by train for free thanks to the latest call of the DiscoverEU programme. Today at 12:00 CET during the  European Youth Week  buzzing with  activities , the Commission launched the latest DiscoverEU application round. It will end on Tuesday 30 April at 12:00 CET.

In total, 35,500 travel passes are available. To get one, young people born between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2006 can do a quiz with five questions about the EU and one additional question on the  European Youth Portal . Successful applicants will get a free rail pass to travel in Europe for up to 30 days between 1 July 2024 and 30 September 2025.

The call is open to applicants from the European Union and countries associated to the  Erasmus+ programme  including Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia and Türkiye. Ticket holders can plan their own routes or be inspired by existing ones. For example, they can discover a  route  launched last year, which focuses on cities and places making the European Union ‘beautiful, sustainable and inclusive' in line with the principles of the  New European Bauhaus .

Participants can also benefit from the  DiscoverEU Culture Route  an initiative of the 2022 European Year of Youth that combines various cultural destinations including architecture, music, fine art, theatre, fashion and design. Participants can visit the  European Capitals of Culture  which are on the  UNESCO World Heritage List ,   European Heritage Label  sites, or  Access City Award  label locations, which are cities that have gone above and beyond to become more accessible to everyone.

DiscoverEU is much more than just a ticket. Participants will also receive a  discount card  with over 40,000 discount possibilities on public transport, culture, accommodation, food, sports and other services in eligible countries. Additionally,  Erasmus+ National Agencies  organise pre-departure information meetings, and national agencies across all Erasmus+ countries prepare  DiscoverEU Meet-ups , learning programmes lasting from one to three days.

Social inclusion is a top priority of the Erasmus+ programme, so participants with disabilities or health issues receive support on their journeys. Since October 2022, the Erasmus+ National Agencies have implemented the  DiscoverEU Inclusion Action , allowing organisations working with young people with fewer opportunities to apply for a grant. This action provides extra support to participants, such as extra funding and the possibility to travel with accompanying persons. More than 250 projects have been awarded by the Erasmus+ National Agencies since the first call in October 2022, and two calls of the Inclusion Action are taking place in this year.

While DiscoverEU encourages sustainable travel by rail,  special arrangements  are available for young people from outermost regions, Overseas Counties and Territories, remote areas and islands.

The Commission launched  DiscoverEU  in June 2018 following a preparatory action from the European Parliament. It is integrated into the  Erasmus+ programme 2021-2027 .

Since 2018, more than 1 million candidates have applied for 284,000 available travel passes. According to the latest post-travel survey, 72% of candidates declared it to be the first time travelling out of their country of residence by train. For many, it was also the first time they travelled without parents or accompanying adults, and the majority indicated an increased sense of independence. Over two-thirds said that they would not have been able to finance their travel pass without DiscoverEU.

The DiscoverEU experience has given young people a better understanding of other cultures as well as European history and improved their foreign language skills. Participants are invited to become DiscoverEU Ambassadors to champion the initiative. The  # DiscoverEU Official group  has more than 96,000 members where young travellers can contact each other to share experiences and tips.

To apply, eligible candidates need to complete a multiple-choice quiz on general knowledge about the European Union and other EU initiatives targeting young people. The Commission will rank applicants on the basis of their responses. The Commission will offer travel passes to applicants following their ranking up to the limit of available tickets.

For More Information

European Youth Portal

DiscoverEU is a fantastic opportunity for young people who want to explore Europe, discover places and meet new people. I am happy to launch this spring application round during the exciting European Youth Week. I wish the best of luck to all applicants!

Iliana Ivanova, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth

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Train travel now a punishment, blames Centre: Rahul Gandhi

He expressed concern over the discomfort faced by passengers, noting that even those with confirmed tickets struggle to find seating, with some resorting to sitting on the floor or hiding in restrooms.

New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday claimed that the poor policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government are weakening the railways, adding that travelling by train has become a punishment under the BJP-led Central government.

Sharing a video clip of passengers facing inconvenience during their train journey, Rahul Gandhi in a post on X said, “In the rule of Narendra Modi, travelling by train has become a punishment! Passengers of every class are being harassed by the Modi government which is reducing the number of general coaches from common man’s trains and promoting only ‘elite trains’.”

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Rahul Gandhi claimed that even those having confirmed tickets are facing inconvenience.

“People are not able to sit comfortably on their seats even after getting confirmed tickets; the common man is forced to travel on the floor and hide in toilets,” he said.

Wayanad MP further alleged that by showing railways in a poor light, the BJP wants to sell it to their “friends”. “The Modi Government, through its policies, wants to weaken the Railways and prove it ‘incompetent’ so that it can get an excuse to sell it to its friends. If we want to save the common man’s travel, then the Modi government which is busy ruining the railways will have to be removed,” he added.

Earlier last month, Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw lauded the transformative efforts undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to revamp the Indian Railways over the past decade.

Vaishnaw emphasized that under PM Modi’s leadership, the railways have made significant strides, operating at an impressive pace of development.

Minister Vaishnaw said, “In the last ten years, PM Modi has made a lot of efforts to bring improvement in railways.” Expressing confidence in the future trajectory of the railways, Vaishnaw affirmed that the momentum of development and infrastructure expansion would be sustained over the next five years.

He assured that the railways would continue to introduce new infrastructure and services at a consistent pace, further enhancing connectivity and efficiency across the nation.

“Railways will continue to bring new infrastructure and services at the same pace in the upcoming five years,” said Minister. Indian Railways has been allotted a total of Rs 2.52 lakh crore outlay for the financial year 2024-25.

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'Moving suites' sightseeing train unveiled in southwest Japan

April 22, 2024 (Mainichi Japan)

Japanese version

KITAKYUSHU -- Kyushu Railway Co. (JR Kyushu) on April 19 unveiled its new sightseeing train "Kanpachi-Ichiroku," which will run between Hakata Station in the city of Fukuoka and Beppu Station in the Oita Prefecture city of Beppu.

It is the first new sightseeing train to be introduced by JR Kyushu since the "Futatsuboshi 4047," or "Two Stars 4047," in September 2022, and will enter service on April 26.

The train consists of two passenger cars and one lounge car. The exterior of the train is black with gold lines representing the route map of the Kyudai Line, which the train will run on. The interior of each car has a different design based on the nature along the line, such as volcanoes and hot springs. The lounge counter is made of a single piece of Japanese cedar said to be about 250 years old. The train's name was taken from Aso Kanpachi and Eto Ichiroku, both businessmen from Oita Prefecture who worked to build the Kyudai Line.

The one-way train will run once a day, except Thursdays, over roughly five hours between Hakata and Beppu stations. Fares start at 18,000 yen (roughly $120) per adult with a meal included.

A ceremony was held at JR Kyushu's Kokura General Rolling Stock Center in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, on April 19 to celebrate the completion of the train. There, JR Kyushu President Yoji Furumiya said, "The train has become a set of moving suites on the Kyudai Line, with meals along the way and views from the windows. We would like to keep improving it so that people from all over Japan will come."

(Japanese original by Tomohiro Shimohara, Kyushu Business News Department)

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New things to do in Singapore in 2024

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New things to do in Singapore in 2024. Photo / Singapore Tourism Board

Singapore has long had a reputation for being a stopover city, lacking in excitement, but times have changed and it’s anything but a sterile snooze these days, writes Katie Lockhart.

Thanks to a swath of shiny new hotels, attractions and finger-licking good food (and we don’t just mean chilli crab), Asia’s financial hub has never been more captivating. These latest additions to the Lion City aim to make Singapore not just a layover but a destination.

Try these new (and family-friendly) activities

From watching the light and sound show at Gardens By The Bay to sipping a Singapore Sling at The Raffles’ Long Bar, there are plenty of activities to fill your days and nights in Singapore. The city always has a burgeoning concert (*ahem*, Taylor) and event scene, but there’s also a handful of new attractions to add to your itinerary.

READ MORE: What it’s like to fly Singapore Airlines business class, from Auckland to Singapore

Spend a day at the beach

At first thought, sand and Singapore don’t seem to go together, but head to Sentosa and you’ll quickly change your mind. Opened in 2022, Central Beach Bazaar brings the carnival to the beach with retro games, a boutique and international food trucks . You’ll also catch Singaporeans bringing their kids to the Sentosa Musical Fountain, a beloved water show from the 1980s.

Soar over Sentosa in style

The Singapore Cable Car is celebrating 50 years with brand new SkyOrb Cabins. Hop in one of seven of the “world’s first chrome-finished spherical cable car cabins” and marvel at the emerald waters from its glass bottom. Anyone afraid of heights may want to stay behind.

Get your chocolate fix

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory meets Asia at Mr Bucket Chocolaterie , which opened on Dempsey Road a few years ago. This bean-to-bar chocolate factory prides itself on sourcing its cacao from sustainable farms throughout Asia. Sweet-toothed travellers can come here for souvenirs, daily tours or to make chocolate slabs with toppings like potato chips and popping candy.

Bird watching but not as you know it

Singapore has loads of green space; in fact, it’s one of the world’s greenest cities. Bird Paradise, which opened in Mandai Wildlife Reserve last year, is home to more than 3500 vibrant birds such as the Papuan hornbill and king penguins. Animal lovers can walk through eight different aviaries, marvelling at 400 rare and unique species from across the globe.

The latest and greatest places to stay

Home to nearly every major hotel brand on Earth, Singapore has no shortage of iconic places to stay, from The Raffles to the newly updated Mandarin Oriental. With a focus on “going green”, many of the latest arrivals are helping the country achieve its lofty goals of net-zero hotel emissions by 2050.

Pan Pacific Orchard

One of the city’s most sustainable hotels, the Pan Pacific Orchard takes the green ethos to another level. From the cascading plants to the shade of the staff’s suits to the marble lining the floors, everything here is green. Opened last year, its 206 rooms reflect Singapore’s four environments: forest, beach, garden and cloud. Its massive open-air lobby and 14,000 square metres of foliage and water features make you feel far removed from any kind of concrete jungle.

21 Carpenter

The city’s latest edition is arguably its coolest. Converted from a 1930s remittance house, this boutique hotel has just 48 impeccably styled rooms. Blending old and new, the rooms feature heritage touches with sleek custom-made furniture. The hotel’s lush, open garden terrace is the perfect place to relax with a book, and its rooftop infinity pool has unobstructed views of Marina Bay Sands.

Mondrian Singapore Duxton

Arguably the most exciting opening of 2023 , the 302-room Mondrian hired a unique group of individuals, from a former inmate to a former Olympian, to work inside this quirky art-filled hotel. While the design and spacious shophouse-style suites are eye-catching, the big draw is the hotel’s rooftop pool with skyscraper views.

The Singapore EDITION

The EDITION brand’s first foray into Southeast Asia is situated on shopaholic-friendly Orchard Road . Its 204 rooms are light and bright, with light timber flooring and a white colour scheme, giving each a relaxed, clean feel. Book a table at its signature restaurant Fysh, where Australian celeb chef Josh Niland works magic with seafood.

Singapore’s best food and drink venues for 2024

Singapore is a foodie city through and through. From its 100-plus Unesco-listed hawker centres to its reputation as the cocktail bar capital of Asia, it’s impossible to go hungry or thirsty in this munching metropolis.

Martin’s Kitchen

Much like Singapore, Martin’s Kitchen is a melting pot. Blending European, Mexican and Hakka (Singapore’s fourth-largest Chinese dialect group) flavours, this new hotspot creates a unique menu filled with comfort food. Try the Hakka ravioli, filled with pork and fish, served with a spicy Szechuan sauce, or the kong ba pao tacos with coriander mayo.

The Backdrop

Singapore’s newest speakeasy is inside the voco Orchard Singapore and requires a special key to enter. Once you do, the bar’s burlesque-glam interiors take you back to the 1920s, where the speciality is cocktail guru Dario Knox’s groundbreaking Percolated Cocktails.

Bali-based dessert king WIll Goldfarb and former Noma chef Matthew Orlando have created a 3700-square-metre farm-to-table concept. But more than just an eco-conscious Southeast Asian restaurant, the team here holds sustainable workshops, ferments food and cultivates produce for each dish.

Bar Spectre

While a bar about wellness may sound like an oxymoron, this new vintage-themed cocktail bar has a thoughtful non-alcoholic menu and boozy drinks made with traditional Chinese medicine. Spectre’s bar bites also lean towards healthy, with locally sourced items like silken tofu and avocado hummus.

After strolling through the orchid garden, stop at this new restaurant inside the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The kitchen creates an exceptional multi-course tasting menu using ingredients from the gardens mixed with French techniques. Served inside a stunningly restored 1910s black-and-white home, it’s a quintessential Singapore experience.

Pael.et Bar

The perfect Friday night hangout, Pael.et (pronounced palette) is a welcome new arrival to Singapore’s glorious bar scene. Fun cocktails like the Itsumi Martini, made with pasta water, and the Espress Yourself, made with pandan and salted egg, are must-tries, as are the moreish bar bites. With a focus on community arts (hence the name,) the walls here are lined with work from local artists.

Getting around in Singapore

While locals may lament Singapore’s small size, the compact cityscape is perfect for exploring on foot. Easy to navigate, with plenty of colour to see between major attractions, walking around Singapore is highly recommended. The only caveat is that the city’s sweltering heat and sky-high humidity may leave you drenched in sweat, just like its afternoon rain showers.

Download Grab on your phone if you’re looking for an air-conditioned way to explore. This rideshare app allows you to book an affordable taxi or car to anywhere in the city.

Singapore’s public transport, including buses and the MRT, is an efficient and cost-saving option, especially with its Singapore Tourist Pass. Travellers can buy an unlimited travel pass for one, two or three days to check off all the iconic sites and new activities on their list.

Singapore Airlines is one of the world’s best carriers and recently announced an extension of its partnership with Air New Zealand. Through till 2029, the airline will increase the number of flights, reportedly offering four daily services between Auckland and Singapore by 2025. Luckily for Kiwis, experiencing the latest and greatest in Singapore will be easier than ever.

For more things to do in Singapore, see visitsingapore.com

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