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Norfolk Southern Railway and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) recently reached a tentative agreement covering 5,100 locomotive engineers.

Extending through 2014, the pact calls for general wage increases, a continuation of compensation tied to NS’ performance (the BLET has participated in the railroad’s bonus program since 1996), improved incentive pay for weekends and holidays, and work rule changes.

The agreement is subject to ratification by union members. The voting process should take at least 30 days, the BLET said. The railroad and union have been negotiating a new contract for the past year.

Meanwhile, 50 United Transportation Union-represented conductors, trainmen and engineers have ratified a new five-year agreement with Chicago Rail Link. Retroactive to January 2005, the contract calls for wage increases and benefit improvements.

Owned by OmniTRAX Inc., Chicago Rail Link provides switching and terminal services, and operates 72 miles of owned and leased track.