Salisbury to Asheville passenger rail corridor: jobs forecast

A new analysis from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division says the Salisbury to Asheville passenger rail corridor could deliver major economic gains for western North Carolina if the project is developed, as outlined in the NCDOT executive summary PDF.

The study — the Western North Carolina Rail Corridor Economic Impact Report — reviews the potential effects of restoring passenger rail service across western North Carolina. Under the planned route, communities in the west of the state would connect with existing intercity rail services serving Charlotte, the Piedmont Triad, and the Research Triangle.

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What the NCDOT study says about the corridor?

NCDOT Rail Division director Jason Orthner called the Western North Carolina rail corridor a “unique opportunity” to strengthen regional connectivity, support local economies, and create a more resilient and dynamic transportation system for North Carolina. He also pointed to the interest the route is receiving as a sign of the opportunity to better connect western North Carolina to the state’s existing intercity passenger rail network, as reported by Railway-News.

Salisbury to Asheville passenger rail corridor: construction impacts

In the report’s construction scenario, capital investment in the corridor is expected to support construction activity and related supply chains over the life of the project. During the construction phase, it projects an average annual impact of 5,270 jobs, about USD 360.5 million in employee earnings, and USD 1.05 billion in total economic output — figures also summarized by Railway Supply. State and local tax revenues linked to this activity are estimated at USD 33.6 million.

Operations outlook and regional travel benefits

Once operational, the rail line is expected to keep contributing to the regional economy through ongoing service and maintenance. The report projects around 200 sustained jobs each year, with annual employee earnings of USD 23.4 million and economic output of USD 66.9 million. Recurring state and local tax revenues are estimated at USD 2.1 million per year.

Beyond the economic projections, improved rail access could expand travel options for residents, commuters, and visitors, while also supporting tourism and business travel to the Blue Ridge region. The corridor would provide an alternative mode of transport linking western counties with major urban centres.

The project does not currently have secured funding, and no construction timeline has been announced.

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