COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Rail Development Commission has announced grants totaling more than $1.65 million for infrastructure projects for the Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway, East Ohio Valley Railway, and Camp Chase Railway.
These grants join the previously announced grant of more than $1.23 million for R.J. Corman’s Western Ohio Lines [see “Two R.J. Corman Ohio lines receive state grant …,” Trains News Wire, May 21, 2024]. Each grant will be matched by equal funding from the recipient railroad.
The Wheeling & Lake Erie will receive a grant of $750,000 for a new siding on its River Subdivision in Rayland, Ohio, which will add room for 81 cars near an interchange with CSX in Benwood, W.Va., and open space at its Mingo Junction yard for Steubenville, Ohio, customers who are increasing their rail volume.
“The W&LE has been making needed investments and providing rail service that has attracted more shippers and helped lower logistics costs for companies in the area,” Matthew Dietrich, executive director of the rail commission, said in a press release. “This project will help them continue that trend by making the rail line more efficient, which we hope will also attract even more businesses to the area.”
The East Ohio Valley will receive $255,000 to rehabilitate four private grade crossings. The railroad serves the Hannibal Industrial Park and Long Ridge Energy Prospect near Hannibal, Ohio, and in June will expand its operations through the lease of 18 miles of track from Norfolk Southern [see “Transtar’s East Ohio Valley Railway to grow,” News Wire, May 7, 2024].
“East Ohio Valley Railway is extremely grateful for the support of the Ohio Rail Development Commission, which supports safety and efficiency on Transtar’s newest railroad. We are excited to partner with the ORDC going forward to enhance economic growth in eastern Ohio,” Transtar CEO Jonathan G. Carnes said in a press release.
The Camp Chase Railway will receive $654,410.65 for rehabilitation of its line from Galloway to Lilly Chapel, as well as reconstruction of three grade crossings. For many years, the western portion of the line was used only for railcar storage, but recently, a siding near Lilly Chapel has been used for transloading of high-and-wide loads. The rehabilitation will restore the track to FRA Class 1 standards.
“ORDC’s commitment to improvement of short line railroad infrastructure in the state has paved the way for safer, more efficient rail operations, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth,” Todd Marklin, vice president of engineering for Camp Chase’s parent, the Pinsly Railroad Co., said in a press release.
