CSX
An autonomous electric shuttle at TDSI’s Selkirk facility in New York “is transforming daily transportation for employees,” CSX reported June 17. Introduced in 2023 as part of a pilot program, the shuttle replaced a gas-powered vehicle that transported unloading crews between railcar unloading stations and distant parking areas (watch the shuttle in action above). The technology, CSX said, “improves safety, efficiency, and sustainability in automotive logistics,” and is part of the railroad’s Smart Automotive Terminals initiative.
Recently, the addition of autonomous technology has further optimized operations, according to CSX. “By automating this routine task, the employee who previously operated the shuttle has transitioned to the unloading team, enhancing workforce productivity,” the railroad noted. The integration of autonomous technology is also allowing TDSI to streamline processes and create safer environments for its employees, and the use of an electric vehicle is reducing emissions while “maintaining efficient service at the terminal,” it said.
Other advancements at TDSI facilities include electric unloading ramps, solar-powered infrastructure, and a damage-inspection application.
“We’re creating a portfolio of smart tools and state-of-the-art resources that make work easier for our ONE CSX team while simultaneously strengthening our service product,” said Bryce Thomas, General Manager of TDSI. “It’s exciting to lead the way in bringing these technologies to our terminals.”
Separately, TDSI earlier this month received four awards for quality excellence from the Association of American Railroads at the 132nd Damage Prevention & Freight Claims Conferences in Atlanta, Ga.
CN
“In 2023, the Symington Car team had an idea: what if they brought the tools to the railcar, instead of the railcar to the tools in the shop?” CN wrote in social media posts on June 19. “That spark turned into the first version of the air buggy—an innovative, hard-working trailer that gets railcars back in service more quickly.”
With “smart” upgrades, including a dual-axle trailer, soundproofing, electric start, and a “roadworthy build,” today’s air buggy “is faster, safer, and ready to roll beyond Symington,” according to the Class I railroad.
The team so far in 2025 has completed more than 700 single-car air brake tests using the air buggy, “keeping railcars moving safely and efficiently, and leading the charge across our network,” CN reported.
Further Reading:
NS
NS on June 16 reported that its 2025 Thoroughbred Scholars program has awarded 100 scholarships of up to $10,000 over four years and three scholarships of up to $40,000 over four years to high school seniors and college students “who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement.” Recipients are the children of NS railroaders.
The three Norfolk Southern Scholars Awards went to students who distinguished themselves in the following areas:
- STEM Scholar: Chandler Hoffman, child of Christian Hoffman, Mingo Junction, Ohio, attending University of Akron and pursuing a degree in civil engineering.
- HBCU Scholar: Zion Fennell, child of Ben Fennell, Bluffton, S.C., attending Howard University and pursuing a degree in psychology.
- Community Scholar: Maggie Purgason, child of Christopher Purgason, Morristown, Tenn., attending East Tennessee State University and pursuing a degree in communications studies.
Since launching in 2022, the Thoroughbred Scholars program has awarded $4.48 million in scholarships across the Class I railroad’s 22-state network.
“Building a better future begins with empowering the next generation,” NS President and CEO Mark George said. “Celebrating the achievements of our railroaders and their families is one of the most special parts of being a Thoroughbred, and we are excited for all recipients in their journey through higher education.”
Further Reading:
B&O Railroad Museum
The B&O Railroad Museum on June 18 launched AmericanRail200.org, what it is calling the “one-stop source of information for the Bicentennial of American Railroading in 2027.”
“This user-driven website will serve as the central clearinghouse for nationwide events and news about the 200th anniversary of railroading, uniting celebrations from coast to coast,” reported the museum, which is undergoing a campus transformation project in preparation for the anniversary celebration. “Organizations and individuals across the country are invited to upload their events and news, so all may participate.”
“The 200th anniversary of American railroading is an opportunity for all Americans to celebrate an industry whose tracks form the DNA of American life,” said Kris Hoellen, Executive Director of the B&O Railroad Museum. “Through americanrail200.org, everyone can participate in the bicentennial and plan their vacations by searching the website for events and activities to attend in 2027. We invite everyone to explore, connect and contribute.”
The B&O Railroad Museum on May 14 held a groundbreaking ceremony for its campus transformation project. Joe Hinrichs, CSX President and CEO and Railway Age 2025 Railroader of the Year, served as keynote speaker. He and Benjamin H. Griswold IV are co-chairing the museum’s $38 million capital campaign for restoration work.
The B&O was the first steam-operated railroad in the United States to be chartered as a common carrier of freight and passengers. The museum was established in 1953. CSX in 1987 officially transferred all land and property for the museum to a non-profit that became the B&O Railroad Museum.
