A New England provider of freight rail services is moving ahead with plans to revive operations on two disused Maine branch lines. TransloadX, a Nashua, N.H.-based company, has begun the process of leasing 18 miles of track connecting Bucksport and Bangor branch from owner CSX. The line has been mostly unused since a paper mill closed in 2014.
The company plans to lease another branch from CSX connecting Waterville and Augusta, with the goal of strengthening Maine's industrial and logistics economy. This move is expected to attract new rail-served industries and create jobs in the region.
TransloadX offers integrated services for transloading, logistics, and railroad real estate, which will be crucial in reviving the dormant rail lines. The company's co-owner, Michael Milanoski, stated that their goal is to work collaboratively through private investment and public-private partnerships to rebuild rail infrastructure.
The Augusta line has been out of service for two years after feed, steel, and scrap businesses transferred shipping to trucks. This shift highlights the need for reliable rail transportation in Maine, which TransloadX aims to address. By reviving the rail lines, the company can help reduce reliance on trucks and lower emissions.
The Bucksport line was part of Pan Am Railways' Maine network acquired by CSX in 2022. The line had been sparingly used to remove contaminated soil from a closed chemical plant in Orrington. This history demonstrates the potential for rail lines to be repurposed and reused, making them more viable options.
CSX reported handling 26,000 carloads of freight, mostly paper and forest products, on 481 miles of track in Maine in 2024. While this may seem like a small number compared to other states, it highlights the importance of rail transportation in Maine's economy.
The lease terms are scheduled to be finalized in April, pending Surface Transportation Board approval. This timeline is crucial for TransloadX to begin operations and capitalize on the growing demand for rail services in Maine.
As TransloadX moves forward with its plans, it will be essential to monitor the impact of this project on the local economy and environment. The company's efforts can help create new opportunities for industries and reduce reliance on trucks, making a positive contribution to Maine's economic development.
The resurgence of rail operations in Maine has significant implications for the state's industrial and logistics sector. By investing in rail infrastructure, TransloadX can help stimulate growth and create jobs, ultimately contributing to Maine's economic prosperity.
The resurgence of rail operations in Maine has the potential to revitalize the state's economy and create new opportunities for industries.
