CSX Blue Ridge: Restoring Critical Freight Rail in NC/TN

CSX reopens the Blue Ridge Subdivision, a vital freight corridor, after extensive flood damage. The 60-mile **rail** line restoration is complete.

CSX Blue Ridge: Restoring Critical Freight Rail in NC/TN
October 4, 2025 1:54 am

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Introduction

CSX celebrated the reopening of its Blue Ridge Subdivision, a critical 60-mile freight corridor in North Carolina and Tennessee, following extensive damage from flooding caused by Hurricane Helene a year prior. The restored line, part of CSX’s network, annually transports over 14 million tons of freight.

Project Overview

The restoration of the Blue Ridge Subdivision, a key north-south route, was a significant undertaking for CSX. This project was one of the largest rail recovery projects in CSX history.

Scope of Work

The project involved substantial reconstruction efforts. Over 570,000 man-hours were dedicated to the project by CSX employees, contractors, and suppliers.

Material and Infrastructure

The restoration utilized significant quantities of materials. The team used 1 million cubic yards of rock and material for rebuilding embankments and track beds, installed 575 rail piles and 1,150 precast concrete panels for a nearly 1-mile retaining wall, placed 21,000 cubic yards of concrete, and laid 35,500 linear feet of new track in the Nolichucky River gorge.

Impact

The restored Blue Ridge Subdivision is vital for connecting the Appalachian region to the wider freight network.

Conclusion

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CSX successfully restored the Blue Ridge Subdivision, a critical freight corridor damaged by Hurricane Helene. The project involved extensive work and resource allocation.

Company Summary

CSX: CSX is a company that operates a rail network.

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