Bill Fahrenwald began his career in rail advocacy, co-founding the 20th Century Railroad Club in the 1970s to promote passenger rail service. As the club’s first president, he led efforts to preserve key routes, organized over 50 rail excursions, and oversaw projects like the Bicentennial-painted Rock Island locomotive. He later served as Washington Editor for Railway Age and contributed to Trains Magazine and the Chicago Reader, covering rail policy and industry innovation.

With a journalism degree from Columbia College Chicago, Bill transitioned into marketing and communications. He was Executive Director and Partner at James Street Associates, a firm focused on media relations for logistics and supply chain clients. A founding member and past president of the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), Bill is recognized for shaping industry narratives and delivering strategic messaging. He is a frequent trade show speaker and moderator.

In public service, Bill represents Blue Island’s 4th Ward as Alderman. His leadership has advanced walkability, bike access, and transit connectivity through “Complete Streets” planning. As liaison to the Forestry Board, he helped plant 400+ trees and modernize the city’s tree ordinance, earning Tree City USA recognition.

Through journalism, marketing, and civic engagement, Bill has spent over five decades connecting people, stories, and communities.