ASLRRA establishes short-line education fund

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) has launched a new short-line education fund.

The initiative is aimed at helping to address small railroads’ training and certification needs, as well as promoting the value of short lines to decision makers, customers and industry stakeholders, association officials said in a press release. The fund also will help build a library of industry-specific research, education and training materials.

Additionally, the initiative will enable ASLRRA to conduct research on the economic impact of regionals and short lines on related industries, key customers and the U.S. economy. Other specific efforts include developing curriculum for an executive leadership program and expanding webinar production abilities, ASLRRA officials said.

"It has become evident to our board that short lines are facing some of the most complex challenges this industry has seen in many years, including new training rules, new technology implementation such as PTC, and new equipment considerations for HAZMAT transport, all during a tough economic market," said ASLRRA President Linda Bauer Darr.