Recent news and analysis on Transportation & Infrastructure

Transportation news covering roads, bridges, public transit, infrastructure spending, and transportation policy developments.

• FAA to phase out floppy disks from air traffic control by 2028

  The US Federal Aviation Administration announced plans to eliminate floppy disk technology from over 400 air traffic control facilities by the end of 2028. Initial deployments of the new Enterprise Information Display System will occur at Atlantic City, Nashville, and Rochester airports. President Trump promised to upgrade FAA equipment after a plane crash near Washington in 2025 highlighted reliance on antiquated technology like Windows 95 computers.

• Canada proposes airport privatization and rail expropriation

  The Canadian federal government plans to introduce legislation covering private investment in four major airports and high-speed rail expropriation powers. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans to attract private investment via an operating concession model by 2029, allocating $37.6 million for due diligence.

• Amtrak Penn Station plan may use taxpayer funds for MSG venue

  Amtrak's proposal to rebuild Penn Station involves purchasing Madison Square Garden's Infosys Theater, with proceeds potentially funding a new private entertainment venue. MTA leadership opposes the plan due to risks for Long Island Rail Road service, raising concerns about using public money for private development.

• "Vincent Thomas Bridge closes for 16 months on Saturday. Here's what you need to know"

  The Los Angeles Times reports on the upcoming 16-month closure of the Vincent Thomas Bridge for structural rehabilitation. The article details the reasons for the shutdown, including concrete fatigue, and provides logistical information for motorists navigating alternative routes between San Pedro and Terminal Island.

• "Want a bullet train from Seattle to Portland? Here's your chance to weigh in"

  Washington and Oregon transportation officials are seeking public input on the Cascadia High-Speed Rail proposal to address projected population growth and congestion along Interstate 5. The $55.7 million planning effort aims to shape routes and speeds for potential 200 mph service connecting Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver.

• "Steel flyover work triggers traffic curbs near KBR Park"

  The article reports on traffic disruptions in Hyderabad caused by steel flyover construction linking Jubilee Hills Check Post and Nagarjuna Circle. It details specific diversion routes advised by the Hyderabad Traffic Police to mitigate congestion, providing logistical guidance for motorists navigating affected areas like KBR Park and Srinagar Colony.

• "Did loud music cause Bristol's Pero's Bridge to collapse?"

  BBC News reports that Bristol Harbour Committee chair Andrew Brown suggests external vibrations from loud music may have caused Pero's Bridge to collapse further. The article details the bridge's history of mechanical failure and corrosion, noting that repair plans were already approved before the incident.

• "Diwali, Chhath 2026: Delhi Police traffic advisory for Anand Vihar ISBT till Nov 15; what UP, Bihar passengers must know"

  Mint details Delhi Traffic Police advisories for Anand Vihar ISBT during the Diwali and Chhath Puja festival period from November 5 to 15. The report specifies traffic diversions, parking bans, and recommended alternative routes via the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway to manage congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement in the capital.

• "HS2 blew billions - here's how and why"

  Andrew Gilligan argues that HS2's massive budget overruns and reduced scope stem from a fundamental misalignment between its high-speed branding and the actual need for rail capacity. He contends that political decisions prioritized speed over practical utility, ignoring earlier expert recommendations to focus on improving existing infrastructure.

• "Highway 101 Through SF Is Closed Again This Weekend — for the Last Time"

  Caltrans announces the final weekend closure of Highway 101 near San Francisco General Hospital for repaving, affecting travel to the Peninsula and SFO. The article advises drivers on expected delays, detours, and timing strategies to navigate the significant traffic impact during this last phase of the project.