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P.T. Barnum, they ain't. Historically, railroad operators haven't been dynamic self-promoters, either unwilling or unable to tout the industry's advantages to the public at large. Now, along with rail supply industry representatives, railroad officials have launched GoRail, a non-profit organization that aims to mobilize railroading's 500,000 employees and retirees to promote the industry's agenda and public benefits.

"A strong and growing railroad industry is essential for America's future, and harmful policies like re-regulation and unfair taxation would hurt not just the railroad industry, but all Americans," said GoRail Director Shannon Bagato in a prepared statement. "What we need are pro-rail policies that will grow the business, reduce highway congestion and create new economic opportunities."

With U.S. freight volumes expected to increase more than 67 percent by 2020, railroads can play a larger role in moving those shipments compared with trucks traveling on overcrowded highways, officials at GoRail — which is supported by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and other organizations — believe.

"Rail industry employees and retirees can make a real difference by joining GoRail and educating the public — and policy makers — about the benefits of rail to society," said AAR President and Chief Executive Officer Edward Hamberger.

GoRail officials plan to contact railroad and supply company employees and retirees throughout the United States to build lobbying support.

"We are going to use every form of communication — group meetings, newsletters and the media, the Web, email and individual contacts," said Bagato.

For more information, call 1-877-4GoRail or visit the organization's Web site at www.gorail.org.