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Norfolk Southern Restores Freight Rail Service to Asheville

A freight train traveling through the mountains near Asheville, NC.

News Summary

Norfolk Southern has successfully restored freight rail service between Asheville and western points for the first time since Hurricane Helene caused significant damage. The restoration, involving repairs on the AS Line and significant infrastructure improvements, is crucial for the economic recovery of Western North Carolina. Governor Josh Stein highlighted the importance of this development, as increased rail traffic is expected to benefit local logistics and transport, while future projects aim to enhance passenger rail services in the region.

Asheville, N.C. – Norfolk Southern has successfully restored freight rail service between Asheville and western points for the first time since the damage caused by Hurricane Helene last September. This significant achievement, announced on May 20, follows extensive repairs along the AS Line, reinstating vital transportation routes for the region.

The full restoration of freight tracks between Asheville, North Carolina, and eastern Tennessee involved comprehensive work that included the rebuilding of 128 locations and over 13 miles of track. The reconstruction utilized over 160,000 tons of materials and the clearing of more than 2,000 trees, reflecting the scale of efforts undertaken by Norfolk Southern to ensure the safety and reliability of rail operations.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein emphasized that the restoration of freight rail service is essential for the economic recovery of Western North Carolina. The repair work not only involved replacing critical infrastructure but also marked an important step in rejuvenating the region’s logistics and transportation framework.

A key element of the restoration project included the replacement of the Pigeon River rail bridge in Newport, which was severely damaged by the hurricane. Further supporting the restoration of services is Norfolk Southern’s reconnection of 92 miles of short line railroad through Watco’s Blue Ridge Southern Railroad, enhancing regional connectivity and access for local customers.

Residents in the Asheville area can expect to see increased rail traffic as service approaches pre-storm levels. This uptick in activity is not just beneficial for freight transport but also contributes to alleviating road congestion caused by the transport of bulk goods such as chemicals and construction materials.

Furthermore, Norfolk Southern has future plans to begin work on the historic Old Fort Loops in winter 2026, an area also affected by the hurricane. These loops, constructed in the late 1800s using convict labor, represent an important piece of the region’s history, and their restoration aims to preserve this legacy while improving infrastructure.

In addition to freight rail, there is an ongoing initiative to restore passenger rail service to Asheville. Supported by the Federal Rail Administration’s Corridor I.D. program, this project has been allocated $500,000 to oversee intercity passenger rail development in the region. The overall estimated cost of this passenger rail project is around $665 million, with significant funding anticipated from the bipartisan infrastructure law, which underscores the importance of enhancing public transportation alternatives.

The Marion Mayor recognized the announcement regarding the Old Fort Loops’ rebuild as a tremendous opportunity for development in Western North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has described Asheville as the “most requested location” for new passenger services in the state, indicating a strong demand for improved travel options.

Norfolk Southern began its repair and restoration efforts in March after some sections of the rail line faced severe flooding that disrupted service. Official reopening of the route took place on April 25, marking an important milestone in the recovery of rail services in the area.

In summary, the recent restoration of freight rail services by Norfolk Southern is a significant development for Asheville and the surrounding regions. It not only facilitates the transport of goods critical to the local economy but also lays the groundwork for future enhancements in transportation infrastructure as the region looks to recover and grow in the aftermath of the hurricane’s impact.