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Salem County rail operator reports higher freight activity, new customers and infrastructure grants
Summary
Rail representative told the Salem County Board of Commissioners the railroad posted stronger car counts and revenue in 2024, cited state backing for crossing protections and said a new customer could add roughly 120 rail cars and about 50 manufacturing jobs.
A representative for the local rail line updated the Salem County Board of Commissioners on 2024 operations and expected near-term activity, saying freight car counts and revenue improved and the railroad expects a new customer that could increase traffic and local jobs.
The presentation to the board summarized 2024 financials and operations, noting “total revenues that we paid to the account were just over $60,000” and that the total for the line during the speaker's tenure was “about $114,350.” The presenter said the state contributed “a little over $2,000,000” for crossing protection and resurfacing, with another roughly $800,000 approved for additional work, including culvert repairs and utility crossings.
The speaker highlighted freight activity increases, saying earlier in the year the railroad handled “4 in, 4 out” and later had a tender in the mid-50s car count. He said the railroad expects “a new customer to start … so it should be about a 120 cars to see the About 50 jobs,” describing that as a potential manufacturing customer in the area. The rail representative also noted continued marketing for rail car storage and transloading at the Miles Grove property and said passenger events — including a November steam locomotive — drew tourism interest.
Board members asked a brief question about freight train models and thanked the presenters. The board did not take action on the presentation; it was informational.
The presentation also referenced unresolved legal matters the operator said were “still pending” but did not provide details.
Board President and commissioners acknowledged the report and expressed appreciation for the partnership between the county and the railroad.
