chrsjrcj » Thu Mar 29, 2018 8:55 am
Tri-Rail and Brightline were trying to get a bill passed in the Florida Legislature that reduces the amount of time it takes for law enforcement to clear a train after a trespasser strike. It didn’t make it to vote this session, but I suspect we’ll see another attempt.
In other news, 3 autoracks derailed on 53-21. Looks like the rest of the train is continuing on without the racks.
When #53 gets to Sanford, I hope Amtrak can provide transport, food or lodging for 393 people while they wait for their cars to catch up. There will be lawsuits. They were 4+ hours late leaving Lorton and currently (1:27pm) around Charleston. Long way to go. #52 has passed the derailment site. Now Amtrak has to get head end power to the site (if not already there) to haul the racks south, or pay CSX to do it.
Tr-Rail and Brightline's idea should be followed nationwide. Amtrak and the Class 1's and 2's would probably concur.
2:29 pm update: #52 has been stopped for a while south of Petersburg with current estimated arrival at Lorton at 6:24 pm.