Outlook 2021 — Rail CEOs on the Year Ahead
How are North American rail leaders gearing up for 2021? How has COVID-19 colored their plans? Where do they see growth (if they see it)? Challenges regarding same? For answers, we'll check in with Class I CEOs to get their takes on the potential for rail traffic volume growth, and what additional obstacles they believe they'll need to overcome in the year ahead. We'll also ask transit agency leaders to share their goals for and concerns about 2021, and how they plan to move forward during the pandemic.
MOW
Outlook for Railroad Contracting
Freight railroads and transit agencies continue to contract out for a range of infrastructure needs, from system extensions to project oversight to general upkeep. This month, we'll ask a range of contractors: What does 2021 look like? Will it be better than 2020? Similar? Worse? Why? What is your 2021 forecast for the railroad contracting segment in general, and/or for your business? How are you preparing for what you believe lies ahead? We'll share their responses.
Passenger Rail
Focus on Amtrak
While Amtrak continues to deal with the impact of the pandemic on ridership and revenue, the intercity passenger railroad also is gearing up to welcome the newest additions to its fleet. From delivery of next-generation high-speed Acela trains (Alstom) on the Northeast Corridor, to testing the first Siemens ALC-42 diesel-electric locomotives that will replace the railroad's diesel fleet by 2024, Amtrak is looking to 2021 as the year of "refleeting," as one Amtrak official put it.
In addition to upgrading equipment, Amtrak officials also aim to make riders feel safer by introducing contactless fare payment options, implementing social distancing measures and enhancing cleaning efforts. This month, we'll provide a view into some of the national passenger railroad's plans for the year ahead.
Mechanical:
Freight-Car Forecast
Freight-car order activity can be a barometer of the rail industry's health — especially, perhaps, during this anything-but-clear pandemic period. What's the car-order outlook for 2021? Which car types, if any, will be in demand? Integrity Rail Partners Inc.'s Richard Kloster shares his projections and insights.
MOW:
Friction Modifiers/Rail Lubrication
Companies that produce track lubricants and friction modifiers continue to develop products and systems to help railroads reduce lateral forces, and wheel flange and rail wear — and extend rail and wheel life, as well as cut fuel consumption. Suppliers share information on their new and established offerings.
Note: All editorial topics are subject to change without notice.
Mike Singler
Regional Sales Manager
815-302-7055
mike.singler@tradepress.com