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New York, though behind schedule, has begun putting some sting to its enforcement of restrictions on how much smoke may come out of diesel engine exhaust stacks.

Esco Transportation is trying to struggle back from bankruptcy by cutting its over-the-road trucking operations in half, and concentrating instead on its intermodal business, according to the chairman of the Houston-based company.

Last’s week violence in the Middle East, and the resultant turmoil in the oil futures markets, is a graphic reminder of how little control we have over many of the elements crucial to the success of our businesses.

In August, I had the occasion to drive on Interstate 80 from Cleveland to Lock Haven, Pa. Having worked in the transportation industry and now being co-owner of a trucking company, I was contemplating the fatigue factor of drivers on the road — and more importantly, the question of whether there were any of these drivers on the road with me.

New York City officials have sought for years to obtain improved and direct rail freight service to the four boroughs that lie east of the Hudson River. They have said they want to increase rail volume and reduce some truck congestion — and air pollution — on the four highway crossings into New York. And now an investment of $20 million is buoying their expectations.

The Surface Transportation Board has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking that toughens the rules for Class I railroads seeking to merge.

Environment Canada may begin to scrutinize railroads’ fuel emission standards more closely in response to an exchange of letters over the past few months between Minister of the Environment David Anderson and Canadian Trucking Alliance Chief Executive Officer David Bradley.

A Chicago-based towing company is being accused of price-gouging and bad faith for refusing to release freight taken from trailers that had become stuck under low bridges or otherwise involved in traffic accidents.

Through an agreement with Volvo Trucks North America, Transportation.com will give its members access to financial services, roadside assistance and truck purchasing information.