Enough is Enough: STB Puts the Belt Railway of Chicago on Notice

After several months of warning signs, the Surface Transportation Board (STB) sent a letter to the Belt Railway of Chicago requesting detailed information on what it calls “concerning trends” and an action plan for stabilizing freight rail operations in the region. Read on to see the full letter.

As Canada plans a union-built future, SMART leaders prepare with Top-Down Organizing class

Thanks to partnership with the federal government, huge investments are being made in Canadian infrastructure and the building trades. That’s why it’s more important than ever for SMART local unions to continue growing their signatory contractor base, providing more work opportunities for members in every province. And that’s why the Education Department held its Top-Down Organizing class the week of July 20-24, 2026, in Ottawa, Ontario

When Lives Are on the Line, Qualifications Must Mean Something

Border policy, English proficiency, and meaningful FRA certification drive proposed safety reforms that SMART-TD has been advocating for. Read on to see what is being done to ensure that being an FRA-Certified Railroader in this country is something worthy of respect.

PRESS RELEASE: SMART members at Alstom LA Metrolink deliver overwhelming ratification of new collective bargaining agreement

The members of SMART Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Department (SMART-MD) Local 434 employed by Alstom on the Los Angeles Metrolink have overwhelmingly voted to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement. The new four-year contract delivers a total of 22% in general wage increases, $5,000 total in lump sum bonuses and substantial improvements to the members’ health and welfare benefits and monthly contributions.