Earlier this week we shared with CRC members FRA’s updated guidance concerning the use of “alternative fuel” equipment. This updated guidance expands upon the 2013 letter to the industry, which was originally developed to provide a process for evaluating modern natural gas-powered locomotives (e.g., CNG, LNG). This approach also served as the framework for other non-conventional powered vehicles, as well, such as hydrogen fuel cell multiple unit locomotives (MUs) and other proposed passenger equipment prototypes. The updated guidance provides more insight into the type of information that is pertinent in the review of an approval for the use of new motive power technologies including, but not limited to: fire safety, crashworthiness (particularly of fuel storage systems), control and monitoring systems, emergency preparedness and training requirements, and the environment in which the equipment will be used.

For clarity, the 2025 letter to the industry also takes the opportunity to update the scope of technologies that are considered “alternative fuel,” to include hydrogen powered vehicles (fuel cell or any other variation), battery (where used to provide significant propulsion power), hybrid propulsion, and basically anything that isn’t a conventional diesel or electric locomotive (or steam locomotive…but we won’t go there).

In short, if you are considering procuring or testing locomotive or MU passenger equipment that uses one of these technologies, be sure to review this updated guidance.

Keep in mind that FRA has broad authority when it comes to the safe design and operation of locomotives, particularly under the Locomotive Inspection Act (LIA) and other statutory examples outlined in the guidance. Getting them involved early in the process is critical.

If you would like another copy of the supporting documents, please reach out here.

FTA has published updated policy guidance for the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. This guidance, which replaces the CIG Policy Guidance last updated in January 2023, incorporates feedback received from a July 2021 Request for Information as well as public comments received on the April 2024 Proposed Policy Guidance. The changes include:

• Updating the criteria and measures used for CIG evaluation and rating;

• Incorporating priorities for resilience and affordable housing; and

• Implementing a new “bundling” provision for project sponsors pursuing multiple CIG projects at the same time.

Learn more at the CIG Regulations and Guidance webpage.

FRA WITHDRAWS PROCEDURE UPDATE

FRA has withdrawn the October 29, 2024, NPRM that proposed to update FRA's procedures for waivers and safety-related proceedings to define the two components of the statutory waiver and suspension standard, “in the public interest” and “consistent with railroad safety.”

In light of resource constraints to address the numerous rail safety matters before the agency and because FRA has previously issued guidance on the subject matter covered by the NPRM, FRA has decided to withdraw the NPRM. FRA may pursue similar regulations in the future and will consider updating the existing guidance.

Despite the decision not to move forward with the proposed rule at this time, FRA appreciates and takes seriously the thoughtful perspectives raised by stakeholders concerning the waiver process. FRA will continue engaging with its stakeholders on all rail safety matters.

Read more here.

A Message from FRA Administrator-emeritus, Ron Batory:

In 2025 Michigan State University and its Center for Railway Research & Education within The Broad College of Business will again be offering a Railway Management Certificate Program. This curriculum was initiated in 2007 and has benefited hundreds of graduates and their affiliated employers. During my railroad career I elected to utilize this Program. In retrospect it was beneficial in nurturing a “greenhouse of talent” for ongoing organizational “bench strength.” Participants were favored with learning experiences and diverse peer interactions, that could not be readily realized from their normal work environments. In essence I viewed the MSU/CRRE opportunity as a business tool for tactically developing personnel and strategically creating and investing for the future.

Last year I agreed to associate with MSU, as it advances various educational initiatives involving the rail industry. Attached is a PDF that explains the overall program and its individual modules. Please take some time to review it along with sharing among ALL potential parties of interest you deem appropriate. I will personally be attending and participating in all four modules.

The modules are currently being refined to offer additional educational values for any individual that associates with the rail industry directly or indirectly regardless of any public or private affiliation. Along with Val Kucherenko, Director Railway Education, I look forward to further communication and certainly welcome the opportunity to field any questions from you and other colleagues having interest towards enrolling warranted candidates into this proven Program for 2025.

WHAT WE’RE READING

• President-elect Donald Trump nominates David Fink as FRA administrator (Mass Transit)

• California envisions a zero-emission, fully connected rail network by 2050 (Governor Gavin Newsom)

• 9 predictions about what 2025 may hold for US cities (Smart Cities Dive)

• TEXRail sets December ridership record (Progressive Railroading)

• A Secret Weapon in the Fight Against Trump: Better Public Transit (New Republic)

• MBTA weighs commuter rail options as Keolis contract set to expire in mid-2027 (Worcester Business Journal)

• The MBTA Commuter Rail Celebrates the Impact of 2024 with Animated “TRACKed” (Little Black Book Online)

• FTA Report Finds Public Transit Ridership Up 17% Nationwide in 2023 (Metro Magazine)