Asheville passenger rail restoration: Salisbury–Asheville link studied

A North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division study says the Asheville passenger rail restoration between Salisbury and Asheville could deliver major economic benefits for the state during construction and after service begins, according to Progressive Railroading.

Released yesterday, the analysis estimates that restoring passenger rail on the Salisbury–Asheville rail corridor could generate more than $1 billion in economic output during project implementation. After service starts, the report puts annual economic output at $66.9 million, using figures summarized by NCDOT Rail Division.

NC by Train project status and route background

NCDOT said the NC by Train project is not yet funded and noted that passenger-rail service on the route was discontinued in 1975. If reinstated, the state-supported Amtrak service would improve access to major metropolitan areas and workforce hubs.

Don’t miss…Amtrak Flex Dining menu: new lunch options for sleepers

Officials also said Asheville is the most requested destination not served by NC by Train. If service returns, NCDOT said it would improve access to the Charlotte area, the Research Triangle near Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, the Piedmont Triad, and North Carolina’s Blue Ridge region.

Economic impact for the Western NC rail corridor

In addition to the broader output estimates, the study forecasts tax and employment impacts tied to work on the Western NC rail corridor. Construction on the corridor could generate up to $33.6 million in state and local tax revenue, while the corridor would support 200 sustained jobs. The report also estimates $23.4 million in annual employee earnings and $2.1 million in recurring state and local tax revenue.

What NCDOT says the Asheville passenger rail restoration would change?

“The Western NC rail corridor presents a unique opportunity to strengthen regional connectivity, support local economies, and create a more resilient and dynamic transportation system for North Carolina,” said Jason Orthner, NCDOT Rail Division director. He added that the interest the route is receiving underscores the opportunity to better connect western North Carolina to the state’s existing intercity passenger rail network.

For additional industry context on the proposed Asheville–Salisbury passenger service concept, see Railway Supply.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: