R. J. Corman to operate Alabama short line

R. J. Corman Railroad Co. announced today it has finalized a long-term agreement to lease and operate a short line from the City of Childersburg Local Redevelopment Authority, CSX and Norfolk Southern Railway.

The newly formed R. J. Corman Railroad Co./Childersburg Line will operate a 13.32-mile line in Coosa Pines, Alabama, southeast of Birmingham, company officials said in a press release.

Previously, the line was jointly operated by CSX and NS.

"Our company has experience with similar operations where we provide best-in-class service, focusing on safety, efficiency and adding value to customers," said Ed Quinn, president and chief executive officer of R. J. Corman Railroad Group LLC. "We are looking forward to growing the relationships with current and future industries on the Childersburg Line as well as being a member of the local community.”

The short line hauls a diverse commodity mix and serves a 2,400-acre industrial park, providing inbound and outbound shipments for multiple customers, one of which is a leader in paper product production.

R. J. Corman intends to partner with elected officials and economic development organizations to attract new industries to the "significant development opportunities" at the industrial park, company officials said.

R. J. Corman will continue to interchange with CSX and NS on the line. The company now operates 14 short lines in 10 states.