North Carolina celebrated 35 years of continuous passenger rail service last week during a ceremony in Raleigh, showcasing the success of the NC By Train initiative. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

North Carolina celebrated 35 years of continuous passenger rail service last week during a ceremony in Raleigh, showcasing the success of the NC By Train initiative
Photo – North Carolina Department of Transportation

The state launched the Carolinian route in partnership with Amtrak 35 years ago. Five years later, the Piedmont service was added to strengthen regional rail connectivity between Raleigh and Charlotte.

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While the Carolinian connects North Carolina to the Northeast, the Piedmont offers frequent, direct service between major cities in the state. Together, these services have reshaped regional travel.

Initially, NC By Train offered only one daily round trip. Today, passengers benefit from five daily round trips, significantly improving travel options across central North Carolina.

Increased service has driven steady growth in ridership. In 2024 alone, a combined total of 721,000 passengers traveled on both lines, setting a third consecutive annual record.

North Carolina Rail Expansion Drives Sustainable Travel

Officials credit rising demand to dependable scheduling, upgraded trains, and a growing preference for low-emission transport. And as fuel prices climb, more people turn to rail for comfort and convenience.

By expanding its passenger rail network, North Carolina is helping reduce road congestion, support economic mobility, and cut carbon emissions across the state.

North Carolina Invests in the Future of Passenger Rail

Looking ahead, NCDOT plans to modernize infrastructure and enhance station access. These efforts aim to improve service reliability and increase ridership even further.

Officials are also exploring new corridors that could link additional regions, building on North Carolina’s rail momentum while supporting long-term growth.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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