FRA sets hearing for G&W’s proposed zero-emissions tech test
The Federal Railroad Administration will hold a hearing March 12 to receive public input on a petition from two Genesee & Wyoming Inc. subsidiaries to test zero-emission freight-rail technology, provided by Parallel Systems, on portions of their rail lines.
If approved, the multiphase pilot project would be overseen by the FRA, G&W, Georgia Central Railway LP, Heart of Georgia Railroad Inc. and Parallel Systems, which has developed battery-electric rail vehicles designed to move containers in a cleaner, safer and more cost-effective manner than traditional trucks.
The pilot would enable the railroads and Parallel Systems to demonstrate the technology in a field setting while using protocols to ensure the pilot is operated in a safe and controlled manner.
In addition to the public hearing, the FRA announced an extension to allow time for interested parties to submit comments on the petition or in response to views or information provided at the hearing. The comments are due April 1. The March 12 hearing will be held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. EST in Vadalia, Georgia.