Is the economy on track? Freight trains might clue us in.

When searching for economic indicators, some economists look to rail traffic. Intermodal train traffic, when products travel in containers from ships or trucks onto trains, is doing especially well this year as consumers demand imported goods. But congestion in U.S. ports and surges in COVID-19 could cut freight rail traffic — and complicate economic growth. Plus, New York City’s restaurant industry responds to vaccine mandates, the drop in flood insurance and the complex legacy Enron leaves behind.