Transportation News

Visit the digital archive of the SMART-TD News (PDFs)

Fewer Eyes Mean More Derailments

We're sounding the alarm before tragedy strikes: SMART-TD calls on the FRA to reject a waiver request to cut track inspections by 75% in favor of automated solutions, which miss many common hazards. Read on to learn about the railroad industry’s latest misguided attempt to replace experience with technology.

Santa Monica Local Wins Cost of Living Increases

Local 1785 (Santa Monica, CA) ratified a strong, five-year agreement with Santa Monica Municipal Bus Lines. This vote notches yet another win for SMART-TD’s Bus Department. Read on to learn what issues were addressed in the contract and how teamwork played an important role.

UTUIA is now American Journey Financial Life (AJFL)

As a nod to its expanded membership, the United Transportation Union Insurance Association (UTUIA) announces its new name: American Journey Financial Life. Read on to learn about the organization's earliest beginnings and how its mission and commitment to members remains the same.

REMINDER: Registration Open for Anaheim Regional Training Seminar

Registration is still open for the Anaheim Regional Training Seminar (RTS), which is set for September 8-11. Space in some of the training tracks is limited and will be filled on a first-come first-served basis, so please make sure to secure your spot and book your hotel room early. Read on for registration details.

Brother Bill Link Retires After a Memorable 53 Year Career

After exactly 53 years of service, Brother Bill Link (Local 1470) retired from Amtrak on June 27. Read on to hear what spurred his railroad career, the lessons he’s learned, and the legacy that he leaves behind for future generations.

Nebraska Reforms Standards for Rail Crew Transportation 

We tell our kids not to get into a stranger’s car because they might be a drug addict or a sex offender, but it turns out our Railroaders need to take that same advice when getting into Railroad-provided crew cabs! Read on to see how Nebraska SLD Andy Foust fought to clean up the rules that regulate who can be hired to drive crew vans in his state. SMART-TD is now working to make similar changes nationwide.

Show Your Pride, Win Shirts for Your Entire Local

Share your local pride and compete for free shirts for your local in SMART-TD's first ever Local Pride T-shirt Contest. Read on to learn how to submit a shirt and how much your local can win.