FIRST QUARTER 2026: In this issue John Levai examines NJ Transit’s Arrow III EMUs as they near the end of nearly 50 years of service, with new Multilevel III cars on the way. Russell T. Sharp rides VIA Rail Canada’s Chicago–Churchill service, traveling from the Midwest to the shores of Hudson Bay — dome car included. Looking back, Jonathan J. Boyle Sr. traces the story of The Reveler, a Chicago-based private observation car that began life on Pennsylvania Railroad’s Blue Ribbon Fleet. Thornton Waite adds more nostalgia with a history of Bangor & Aroostook’s Potatoland Special and other once-vital northern Maine passenger runs. All this and more in the First Quarer 2026 issue of Passenger Train Journal.
South Shore Line new Monon Corridor to open March 31
South Shore Line is pleased to announce the completion of the West Lake Corridor project line extension and the long-awaited opening of train service on the Monon Corridor.
Arrow III Twilight: New Jersey Workhorses for Almost 50 Years
After 50 years of reliable service in the Garden State, NJ Transit’s Arrow III workhorses approach the end of the line.
VIA to Hudson Bay from Chicago to Churchill by Rail (and Air)
Riding VIA Rail’s unique passenger service to Churchill, Manitoba, an adventure to a subarctic port home to polar bears.
The Potatoland Special and Other North Woods Favorites
Remembering Bangor & Aroostook’s northern Maine passenger services from the turn of the century through the 1960s.
Metra: Chicagoland’s Commuter Service
Inherited from a variety of legacy railroads, Metra operates eleven vital routes that keep Chicago commuters moving.
Explore the world of White River Productions
