Tuesday midday rail news:
NS train derails near Cincinnati, blocking route
Norfolk Southern is reporting to shippers that a derailment of a manifest train west of Cincinnati this morning has blocked a single-track main line and resulted in track and switch damage. The railroad estimates service will be restored by 5 p.m. today. The accident occurred at 4:05 a.m.; the Dayton Daily News reports about 15 cars of the 40-car train have derailed. No injuries were reported and no hazardous materials are involved. Part of U.S. Route 127 is shut down in Wayne Township, Ohio, as a result, according to Butler County law enforcement officials.
NS names two new vice presidents
Norfolk Southern has named John Hatfield as vice president, corporate communications, and Kathleen Smith as vice president, business development and real estate. Smith will replace the retiring Robert Martinez. Hatfield, who will also oversee the Norfolk Southern Foundation, most recently served as vice president of communications and community affairs for energy provider Arizona Public Service. Smith, who joined NS in 1995 as a management trainee, and has held roles of increasing responsibility in the marketing division with a focus on research, market planning, and analysis. Martinez, who spent more than 23 years with the company, retires Dec. 1, with Smith assuming her new role on that date. Hatfield’s position is effective Jan.1.
Teens pitch pet access on Twin Cities transit system
Six St. Paul, Minn., teens have made a pitch to allow larger pets on Metro Transit buses and light rail trains. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports the effort arose after a new Humane Society veterinary care center opened in the city’s Midway neighborhood to offer services to pet owners with limited resources. The location is adjacent to a Green Line light rail stop, prompting the teens, part of the society’s Youth Camp, to come up with a proposal with such ideas as a pet surcharge, a requirement to keep animals on a lease, and to provide cleaning materials on board. A member of the board overseeing Metro Transit promised to bring the idea before the transportation committee, but a transit spokeswoman said a policy change is unikely. Small pets and service animals are currently allowed.
