As a journalist, I've dealt with many railroads and had opportunities
to see behind-the-scenes operations at many of them. I've found that
the NS is second to none in being cooperative and helpful. (All
railroads have at one time or another turned down requests for a variety
of reasons, but more often than not, NS in the past has said "yes.")

At the same time, I've also seen that NS has a great emphasis on safety
and that this is in part why it insists on things being done by the book.

I've also long been involved with Operation Lifesaver. Again, NS is
second to none in support of OLI in many ways.

Just my experience. Your mileage may vary.

-- Ernest