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Surface Transportation Board: Abandonment Exemption for Central Railroad Co. of Indianapolis

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has received a verified notice of exemption from the Central Railroad Company of Indianapolis (CERA) to abandon two rail lines totaling approximately 1.77 miles in Kokomo, Indiana. The STB has set deadlines for petitions and offers of financial assistance, with the exemption becoming effective on April 8, 2026, unless stayed.

STB Proposes Repealing Regulations to Boost Rail Competition

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has proposed repealing regulations governing reciprocal switching, through routes, and through rates (49 C.F.R. Part 1144). This action aims to reduce regulatory barriers and promote competition in the freight rail industry by allowing for a case-by-case approach to competitive access prescriptions.

STB Rejects Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern Merger Application as Incomplete

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has rejected the major merger application filed by Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern due to incompleteness. The application lacked required system impact analyses and the full merger agreement, leading to its rejection without prejudice for refiling.

STB Chairman Updates on Outstanding Proceedings

Surface Transportation Board Chairman Patrick Fuchs provided updates on several outstanding proceedings, including railroad abandonment applications, environmental regulations, and rulemaking petitions. Decisions on these matters are expected in February 2026.