Progressive Rail to operate state-owned line in North Carolina

The North Carolina Department of Transportation's Rail Division recently partnered with Progressive Rail Inc. (PGR) to spur freight business along the state-owned Piedmont and Northern rail line.

The 14-mile line between Gastonia and Mt. Holly is part of the 137 miles of track the division has worked to preserve. After a recent competitive bid process, the division selected PGR to operate the line.

"Progressive Rail is aggressively marketing this new line and we are optimistic about them drawing in new business to help continue connecting parts of North Carolina's economy," said Allan Paul, the division's acting director, in a press release.

Established in 1996 and headquartered in Lakeville, Minnesota, PGR operates short lines in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina and Wisconsin.

"[We're] proud to be selected to guide the Piedmont and Northern Railway to a much higher level of focus in building careers, commerce and community involvement for the region," said PGR owner and President Dave Fellon. "We look forward to working with the stakeholders in the region to deliver economic and social benefits that can be enjoyed for generations to come."