In the unbelievable category, read about DOJ lawsuit against the Norfolk Southern:

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• The DOJ filed a civil suit against Norfolk Southern in July 2024. The complaint alleged the company consistently violated federal law by not giving Amtrak passenger trains priority over freight trains on its tracks. The lawsuit cited a high number of delays for the Crescent Route passenger train.

• The settlement: In September 2025, the DOJ announced a settlement with Norfolk Southern, which prompted the dismissal of the lawsuit. The settlement was reached after the parties met to find an "amicable solution" to the issues.

• The agreement's terms: Under the settlement, Norfolk Southern agreed to:

  • Give all Amtrak trains the "highest priority" over freight trains in non-emergency situations.

  • Require supervisor approval for any dispatching decision that does not give priority to Amtrak trains.

  • Train its employees to give priority to Amtrak trains.

  • Provide the DOJ with records of delays suffered by Amtrak trains on the Crescent Route.

  • Assist the DOJ in determining the root cause of any delays.