CN and Amtrak finalize an eight-year framework that settles a long-running STB case and adds new safety technology on shared U.S. routes.
Rhea-AI Summary
CN (CNI) and Amtrak have signed a new eight-year operating agreement governing Amtrak passenger services on CN-owned U.S. rail lines.
The deal resolves a proceeding of more than a decade before the Surface Transportation Board over the terms for routes including the City of New Orleans, Illini/Saluki and Wolverine. It creates an updated framework with a revised performance payment system aligned to the Federal Railroad Administration’s on-time performance standard, regular schedule reviews, and processes to address operational issues and disputes. CN and Amtrak will also deploy Onboard Shunt Enhancers on Amtrak trains running on CN’s network to improve grade-crossing train detection and support both safety and on-time performance.
Positive
- Eight-year operating agreement provides long-term clarity for Amtrak services on CN’s U.S. rail network
- More than decade-long STB proceeding over operating terms is amicably resolved
- Revised performance payments tied more closely to FRA on-time performance standards
- Onboard Shunt Enhancers deployment aims to improve grade-crossing safety and train on-time performance
Negative
- None.
News Explained
CN and Amtrak have signed the eight-year operating framework, but installation of Onboard Shunt Enhancers remains a process the parties will undertake, with the release stating that FRA funding supports the installation.
AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.
WASHINGTON and HOMEWOOD, Ill., Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) U.S. rail subsidiaries (Illinois Central Railroad Company and Grand Trunk Western Railroad Company, together “CN”) and the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) today announced that they have reached agreements that strengthen their partnership and support safe, reliable passenger and freight service on CN’s U.S. rail network.
The parties have signed a new eight-year operating agreement governing Amtrak service on CN owned rail lines. The agreement resolves a more than decade-long proceeding before the Surface Transportation Board (STB) concerning the terms and conditions for Amtrak services such as the City of New Orleans, Illini/Saluki, and Wolverine.
The operating agreement establishes an updated framework for CN and Amtrak to work together, including a revised performance payment system more closely aligned with the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) on-time performance standard, regular reviews of Amtrak’s schedules, and processes to address operational issues and resolve disputes.
In addition, the parties will work together on a process for Amtrak to equip its trains operating on CN’s network with Onboard Shunt Enhancers (OSEs), a technology that improves how trains are detected as they approach rail grade crossings. OSEs help ensure crossing warning systems, including gates, flashing lights and bells, activate when they should. OSEs both improve safety and provide greater operating flexibility, supporting improved on-time performance for passenger rail service while helping freight and passenger traffic move efficiently across corridors Amtrak shares with CN.
“CN is pleased to have reached agreements that allow us to move forward with a clear framework for safely and efficiently sharing our network. Together with the deployment of OSE technology, these agreements will support safer grade crossings and reliable passenger and freight service.”
– Patrick Whitehead, Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer, CN
“These agreements give Amtrak and CN a strong foundation to move forward together and deliver efficient, reliable passenger rail service. Together, we are improving performance for our passengers while investing in technology that enhances safety in the communities we serve. With steady encouragement from the STB and grant approval from FRA, we are able to bring this train into the station.”
– Byl Herrmann, Interim President, Amtrak
Installation of OSEs is supported through FRA funding and builds on more than a decade of research and testing led by CN, Amtrak and the FRA.
The parties expressed gratitude to the FRA for its leadership and investment in OSE technology and to the STB for its guidance and encouragement, which was instrumental in helping the parties amicably resolve their long-running operating agreement dispute.
About CN
CN powers the economy by safely transporting more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year for its customers. With its nearly 20,000-mile rail network and related transportation services, CN connects Canada’s Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. Midwest and the U.S. Gulf Coast, contributing to sustainable trade and the prosperity of the communities in which it operates since 1919.
About Amtrak
Amtrak is seizing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform rail and Retrain Travel. By modernizing, enhancing, and expanding trains, stations, and infrastructure, Amtrak is meeting the rising demand for train travel. Amtrak offers unforgettable experiences to more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada. Learn more at Amtrak.com, download the Amtrak app, connect with us on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and join Amtrak Guest Rewards for free to start earning points toward Amtrak reward travel, upgrades, lounge access and more.
FAQ
AI-generated questions and answers. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.
Which Amtrak routes are covered by the new CN operating agreement?
The agreement covers Amtrak services operating on CN-owned U.S. rail lines, including the City of New Orleans, Illini/Saluki and Wolverine trains.
What operational changes are included in the updated CN–Amtrak framework?
The framework includes a revised performance payment system aligned with FRA on-time performance standards, regular reviews of Amtrak schedules, and defined processes to address operational issues and resolve disputes.
What are Onboard Shunt Enhancers (OSEs) and why are they being added?
Onboard Shunt Enhancers are technology installed on trains to improve how they are detected as they approach rail grade crossings. They help ensure that crossing warning systems such as gates, flashing lights and bells activate when they should, which CN and Amtrak state enhances safety and can support improved on-time performance and operating flexibility.
How is the OSE installation program being funded?
Installation of Onboard Shunt Enhancers on Amtrak trains operating on CN’s network is supported through Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) funding, following more than a decade of research and testing led by CN, Amtrak and the FRA.