Scramble!

Yesterday we continued the discussion of signals, and in a way, today continues on the theme with a signal for a different transportation mode: walking. Specifically, this post is an ode to the scramble. Found increasingly in major metropolitan areas, scramble...

Switches and Signals

Happy Thanksgiving! Last week’s post before the holiday introduced subway signals, and today continues on the topic (make sure you’ve read the prior post before proceeeding). Think about the red signal. Often indicating “stop,” it tells trains to, well,...

Clear Ahead

Every day, millions of people rely on subways and trains to travel, and the signal system akin to more advanced traffic lights is responsible for ensuring their safe operation. Ever wonder how they work? You’re about to find out. Most railroads operate by...

Sideways Falls

As you’ll likely notice, yesterday’s post has been delayed until today. What’s the excuse? Being out of the country. Although currently writing this from a train in Toronto, today’s topic relates to the wonder that is Niagara Falls. Home to...

Status in the Sky

While flights may be delayed for a multitude of reasons, the vast majority are associated with airport-wide events (rather than mechanical or airline system issues that impact only a subset of one’s operations). Luckily, data for those types of events is...