Pacific Imperial Railroad, Watco make management changes

Pacific Imperial Railroad (PIR) has named David Arganbright senior vice president of corporate development.

He has about 30 years of railroad experience in multiple roles with Class Is, short lines and Amtrak, most recently as VP of government affairs for RailAmerica Inc.

"I am very excited to have Dave here to help establish a world-class railroad operation that includes the best possible railroad international border crossing," said PIR President David Rohal in a press release.

In December 2012, PIR signed a 99-year lease with the San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railway Co. and San Diego Metropolitan Transit System to provide freight-rail service on the 70-mile Desert Line, which serves the Tijuana-Tecate region of Baja California, Mexico and eastern San Diego County.

Meanwhile, Watco Cos. L.L.C. has named Steve Schrum general manager of the Great Northwest and Palouse River and Coulee City railroads.

He will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of both railroads and for achieving performance goals.

Since joining Watco in 2011, Schrum has served as a roadmaster for the Yellowstone Valley Railroad and operations specialist for the West Region. He previously held various positions at BNSF Railway Co. and its predecessor railroads, including track laborer, track supervisor, conductor and trainmaster.