CN, Unifor reach tentative labor agreement

Canadian National and Unifor have negotiated a tentative labor agreement with the Unifor union. As a result, CN has withdrawn its lockout notice to Unifor, which would have come effective at 11p.m. local time tonight in the absence of a settlement.

AIG expands liability limits to $1 billion

American International Group, Inc. (AIG) has expanded excess casualty liability limits for Class I railroads in the U.S. and Canada to $1 billion per occurrence.

FRA committee OKs HSR crashworthiness standards

The Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC) voted unanimously on implementing new crashworthiness performance standards for next-generation passenger high speed rail (HSR) equipment that will operate in the U.S.

CHSRA selects joint venture as best in value

The California High-Speed Rail Authority has selected the Tutor Perini/Zachry/Parsons joint venture’s bid as the “apparent best value” for the design-build contract to construct the first section of its new high-speed rail system.

BNSF’s Lanigan to retire, railroad names three VPs

BNSF named Steve Bobb executive vice president and chief marketing officer, with responsibility for BNSF’s sales, marketing, customer service, economic development and business unit activities. He succeeds John Lanigan, who has decided to retire effective Jan. 15, 2013.

BNSF names Columbus & Greenville Shortline of the Year

The Columbus and Greenville Railway (CAGY), was recently named Shortline of the Year at BNSF ‘s annual “Shortline Conference” held last month in Irving, Texas.

Alstom to modernize MBTA rail and LRT fleet

Boston’s Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has awarded Alstom Transport two rail fleet modernization contracts with a combined value of approximately $220 million.

Kansas City streetcar proposal receives funding, FTA environmental approval

The Kansas City streetcar proposal has received funds from the Mid-America Regional Council’s (MARC) Board of Directors totaling $ 17.7 million.

Seattle secures funding to design First Hill Streetcar line’s Broadway Extension

Seattle, Wash., has secured funding to plan and design the First Hill Streetcar line’s Broadway Extension.