National Steel Car stops manufacturing because of virus outbreak
Canadian freight car manufacturer National Steel Car has voluntarily shut down because of a COVID-19 outbreak in its manufacturing division. Global News reports the company in Hamilton, Ont., announced the decision on Friday, saying the closure will last for two weeks and was made in consultation with public health officials. In a Facebook post, the company said administrative and engineering work would continue. The company had seen COVID-19 cases rise from five to 18 as of Friday.
SEPTA budget, bolstered by federal aid, would restore most service
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority would gradually restore service, while enacting a hiring freeze and making other cuts, under a proposed operating budget announced Friday. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports the $1.5 billion budget incorporates $368 million in federal COVID-19 relief money. It calls for restoration of 96% of pre-pandemic service for buses, subways, trolleys, and the Norristown High Speed rail line, with 80% of Regional Rail service restored by fall. Currently, the first group of services is operating at about 85% of pre-pandemic levels, with Regional Rail at about 64%. The agency will announce its capital budget next week.
Biden to nominate Bose as FRA administrator
President Joe Biden will nominate Amit Bose to serve as administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, one of several nominations announced by the White House this week. Bose is currently deputy administrator of the FRA, an appointed position which allowed him to begin work pending nomination and approval by the Senate for the top position. He has previously worked at the FRA and the Department of Transpotation as deputy administrator, chief council, and senior advisor, and is credited with overseeing the implementation of positive train control.
