CSX holds grand opening for Florida intermodal terminal

CSX Corp. yesterday held a grand-opening ceremony for its Central Florida Intermodal Logistics Center (ILC) in Winter Haven, Fla.

The 318-acre ILC, which launched operations in April, serves as a centralized hub for Orlando, Tampa and other regional Florida markets. More than 200 people attended the event, including U.S. Reps. Daniel Webster (R-Fla.) and Tom Rooney (R-Fla.), and state, county and city officials.

"The Central Florida ILC is the result of strategic collaboration between the city of Winter Haven, numerous state and local partners, and CSX to create jobs and further strengthen Florida’s transportation system," said CSX Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Ward in a press release. "CSX is proud to invest in this important development in our home state that will help to drive Florida’s economy and position the state for continued growth in the future."
 
The intermodal terminal can process up to 300,000 containers annually and features a number of advanced sustainable technologies, including three high-powered electric cranes, solar panels and a high-mast, energy efficient exterior lighting system.

The ILC is designed for scalable expansion as freight volumes grow. A surrounding 930 acres can be developed in phases to build distribution centers and light industrial facilities totaling up to 7.9 million square feet. In July, Winter Haven Industrial Investors L.L.C. purchased more than 500 acres of adjoining property for the first phase of development.

For more information on the Central Florida ILC and how it factors into CSX's intermodal strategy, read this cover story now featured in Progressive Railroading's October issue.