FEBRUARY 2026: This month we look back nearly 40 years to a pivotal moment in 1987, when Soo Line prepared to spin off portions of its original main lines, briefly turning them into a showcase for classic EMD power. Andrew Nelson revisits this transitional period just before Wisconsin Central stepped in. Adam Horgan takes us on a tour of the former Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac as a busy CSX freight corridor linking North and South, while Jim Kleeman heads to Colorado to explore former Rio Grande branch lines now operated by Colorado Pacific Rio Grande. Victor Hand launches a three-part series examining the critical role the United States Railroad Association played in untangling the bankrupt Northeastern railroads and laying the groundwork for what would become Conrail. All this and more in the February issue of Railfan & Railroad!

RailNews

Amtrak Showcases Cascades Airo Trainset

Amtrak officially showcased the first new Airo train at Washington, D.C. Union Station in mid February.

RailNews

Metrolink F59PH Preserved in California

California’s Fullerton Train Museum has preserved the first Metrolink F59PH locomotive.

Extra Board

Lake States Remembered

For a brief moment in 1987, Soo Line turned back the clock on its original main lines with classic EMD power.

Extra Board

Today’s RF&P: Still Linking North and South

The former Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac remains a busy corridor for freight and passengers under CSX.

Photo Line

Photo Line: Bringing the ‘Q’ Back to Life

Bringing the late-1950s and early 1960s on the Chicago Burlington & Quincy Railroad back to life was the main objective of the “Nebraska Zephyr Night Photo Shoot” in October 2025.