North Carolina DOT recaps 2019 rail projects

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has created a video to highlight its efforts to expand freight-rail accessibility and improve rail infrastructure.

Among the departments "notable achievements" include breaking ground on the Carolina Connector project in Rocky Mount, and the state Rail Division receiving nearly $122 million in grant funding for safety, freight connectivity and passenger fleet improvements, NCDOT officials said in a press release.

The Carolina Connector (CCX) intermodal facility is a project between CSX and NCDOT. The new facility will enable trucks and trains to transfer cargo containers, which will reduce highway congestion, create new jobs and spur business development, NCDOT officials said.

The CCX project is slated to be completed late next year.

The video also highlighted a $35 million federal grant the department received to make safety improvements at 33 grade crossings along the intermodal rail corridor between the Port of Wilmington and Charlotte. The effort also will enhance rail access to the port.

The video can be viewed via this link.