This Month

September 2026

by JOHN HANKEY— Hosting the world’s largest operating steam locomotive at Steamtown required a monumental effort in planning and logistics.

by TIM DOHERTY— Boston’s shortest rapid transit route still lacks the connections needed to reach its full potential serving East Boston.

SPECIAL— Of the hundreds of creative trackside photos submitted for our contest, only one winner can grace the coveted center spread.

by GORDON LLOYD JR.— How a utilitarian EMD design based on the reliable GP40 became the face of modern passenger railroading in North America.

by DAVID R. BUSSE— At Grand Canyon Railway, upgraded F40s were a logical choice to handle the demands of its popular excursion service.

by JUSTIN FRANZ— Power-hungry Bangor & Aroostook turned to Amtrak for a great deal on rebuilt F40s to fi ll out its freight roster.

by JOHN LEVAI— A unique suburban shuttle links communities northwest of Philadelphia with the Market-Frankford Line and more.

by MICHAEL T. BURKHART— NJ Transit stepped up with expanded World Cup service while keeping disruptions to its regular schedule to a minimum.

Departures/commentary: Alexander Benjamin Craghead

Railnews/top news stories and photos from our readers: Justin Franz

Transit Currents/transit news: Bob Gallegos

Railroadiana/new product, book, and video reviews

Timetable/railroad event listings submitted by our readers

Through My Lens/trackside adventures and memories: Kevin EuDaly

Business & Technology/how it works: David C. Lester

Camera Bag/photography tips and techniques

Destinations/detours and distractions along the right of way

Observation Car/railroad culture, dining, and art

High Iron/railroaders share their stories

Preservation Topics/this stuff is old, man

Markers/editorial commentary and musings

Parting Shot