Constantly Changing Complex. The scene at Norfolk Southern Corp's Altoona Shops has been dynamic throughout its history. The view on Thursday, November 19, 2020 shows a variety of of motive power at sunset, including a wide variety of four and six axle EMDs and GEs. Construction of the Altoona Works was started in 1850 by the Pennsylvania Railroad, and the scene has constantly evolved in the 160 plus years since, as has the rest of the railroading world.