Amtrak to modernize major power converter and consider corporate split into three units

STV was selected by Amtrak to develop the preliminary design for replacing Static Frequency Converter #4 at the Richmond SFC Station in Philadelphia. The converter is the largest traction power station on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor, serving routes between Washington, D.C., New York and Harrisburg. STV’s scope includes a site survey, infrastructure assessment, technology evaluation and preparation of design criteria, drawings and cost estimates, with coordination required for environmental and historic preservation concerns. "Modernizing this converter station is essential to strengthening the long‑term performance and reliability of one of the most heavily used rail corridors in the country," said Brandon Swartley, vice president and engineering chief at STV.

Separately, Amtrak’s board has issued a proposal to reorganize the railroad into three distinct entities focused on passenger service, infrastructure management and fleet management, the most significant structural change since the company’s creation in 1971. Interim President Byl Herrmann said the plan aims to improve accountability, performance visibility and financial results. The Rail Passengers Association cautioned that reorganization should not replace adequate funding, noting that the chosen performance metrics could be more consequential than the organizational chart itself.