Rail Groups Welcome Szabo to FRA

The two trade associations that represent railroads before Congress and federal agencies issued welcoming notes to Joseph C. Szabo, after President Obama said he plans to nominate the Illinois rail labor executive to head the Federal Railroad Administration.

"We congratulate Joe Szabo on his nomination as administrator" of the FRA, said Edward R. Hamberger, president and CEO of the Association of American Railroads that counts the biggest railroads in its membership.

Szabo, a former railroad brakeman and conductor, is Illinois state legislative director for the United Transportation Union, the largest single rail labor organization that is built around conductors and some other crafts. "He brings a wealth of experience in the railroad industry to this assignment," Hamburger said.

At the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, President Richard F. Timmons said "Szabo's railroad career spans work in both freight and passenger operations, as well as union leadership, which combined, prepare him to take the helm at FRA."

The FRA is the principal safety agency monitoring railroads, their equipment and work practices. It also conducts research on railcar safety and other types of rail equipment, and at times levies fines on carriers for violations of its rules.

Timmons also used his statement to nudge the industry, its customer and regulators toward a common goal. "Given the magnitude of the full range of pressing issues facing the country, we believe railroads, their employees, shippers ,suppliers and regulators all must work together toward a higher purpose and seek common solutions," he said.

Timmons also said that "short lines, in particular, must be a national transportation priority," as they "operate safely and efficiently to provide good jobs, often in hard-hit rural communities" and are "key links to the larger railroads and other transportation modes."

Contact John D. Boyd at jboyd@joc.com.