Rail supplier news from Timken, Urban Engineers, Greenbrier, TTX and Alstom

Timken, a rail bearing inspection, repair and remanufacturing company, hosted U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) four a tour of its Mascot, Tennessee, facility on March 30. Organized by GoRail, the visit provided Burchett with insight on how Timken's refurbished wheel bearings can help improve efficiency, reduce costs and extend the lifecycle of critical rail components, said GoRail officials in a press release. "I’m very grateful to Timken for the opportunity to tour the Mascot facility," said Burchett. "It was impressive to see how the company is driving innovation, particularly in railroad transportation." Tennessee's rail network includes 27 freight railroads across 2,643 miles, according to GoRail.

Urban Engineers Inc. has hired William Brooks as senior vice president and director of strategic operations. Brooks will oversee Urban's strategic operations, enhance organizational efficiency and support long-term growth, said Urban officials in a press release. Brooks brings nearly 40 years of experience, most recently as senior vice president of capital delivery at New Jersey Transit. Previously, he spent 15 years in leadership roles at AECOM and STV Inc.; and he served as director of engineering and chief engineer for the Delaware River Port Authority from 1998 to 2010.

The Greenbrier Cos. Inc. and TTX Co. yesterday unveiled a custom-painted box car featuring the U.S. flag in honor of the nation's 250th anniversary. Officials from both companies, elected officials, active military members and veterans gathered at Greenbrier's Cleburne, Texas, maintenance facility to mark the occasion, said Greenbrier officials in a press release. "This project demonstrates the strength of Greenbrier’s longstanding partnership with TTX and our shared commitment to supporting the North American economy," said Greenbrier CEO and President Lorie Tekorius. "Freight rail cars can remain in service for up to 50 years, meaning this American-flag box car will travel across America’s rail network for decades to come."

Alstom has signed a contract to modernize the Craiova-Filiasi section of Romania's Craiova-Caransebes railway. The agreement, signed in a consortium with civil works company Terna Tourist Technical and Maritime Societe Anonyme, is for the CFR SA, the Romanian state rail infrastructure operator. Alstom's work includes deployment of ERTMS Level 2 signaling and electrification, which will increase capacity and improve energy efficiency, Alstom officials said in a press release. The contract time spans nearly 10 years and covers the modernization of about 27 miles of track. The upgrades will enable passenger trains to reach speeds of nearly 100 mph, and freight trains to reach speeds nearing 75 mph, said Alstom officials. The monetary value of the contract was not disclosed in the press release.