Double-Stacked Rail Operations Begin at Baltimore Port, Boosting Midwest Connectivity

Double-stacked rail operations have officially launched at Baltimore’s port, boosting trade efficiency and Midwest connectivity. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

On Monday, Maryland’s Governor Wes Moore and CSX celebrated the beginning of double-stacked rail service between Baltimore and key Midwest markets. This service signals a significant step for intermodal rail in the region, with CSX President Joe Hinrichs highlighting Baltimore’s vital role in linking East Coast trade routes with interior markets.

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This new capability is projected to improve transportation efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and expand the port’s annual capacity by around 160,000 containers. Additionally, it will create approximately 13,000 new jobs in areas including construction and port operations, enhancing Baltimore’s position as a key logistics hub. “This project is transformative, driving growth and new job opportunities,” Governor Moore stated, emphasizing its potential to create a pathway to economic empowerment for Maryland’s citizens.

Expanding Infrastructure Through Double-Stacked Rail Operations

The double-stacked rail service complements the ongoing Howard Street Tunnel project, which involves reconstructing the 129-year-old tunnel in Baltimore and modifying 21 other sites to allow 18 inches of additional clearance. This increased clearance will enable double-stacked trains to run seamlessly from Maine to Florida, connecting the entire East Coast with uniform infrastructure for containerized goods.

While tunnel work continues at multiple Maryland locations, CSX has already secured temporary double-stack access through Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, reaching Midwest markets until the project’s completion in 2026. This interim route underscores CSX’s commitment to operational efficiency as it strengthens its East Coast rail network.

Port Enhancements with Double-Stacked Rail Operations

The Seagirt Marine Terminal, operated by Ports America Chesapeake, is another vital component of this development, featuring Neo-Panamax cranes that can manage ultra-large container vessels. These enhancements ensure Baltimore’s port remains competitive, capable of handling some of the world’s largest container ships while meeting the evolving demands of the global shipping industry.

Double-stacked rail service is expected to further increase the port’s significance by linking it efficiently with key regional and national trade routes. The Port of Baltimore, through these developments, positions itself as a central hub for the East Coast and beyond.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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