The N.C. Department of Transportation, in partnership with NC Go!, held the third annual N.C. Transportation Summit in Raleigh on Jan. 19-20, 2022. 

At his first in-person event since being confirmed as administrator, Amit Bose spoke at the session “The Future of Rail is Changing – What That Could Mean for N.C.” Also speaking at the session were John Dillard, Director of State Relations at CSX Transportation, and Ray Lang, Vice President of State-Supported Services at Amtrak. N.C. Board of Transportation member Brad Lail moderated the session.

Administrator Bose gave an overview of how the FRA views the future of rail in America and the impact the new Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will have on improving rail safety, freight, and passenger rail infrastructure. He thanked North Carolina’s congressional members and leaders for supporting this bill that will play a central role in our nation’s transportation and economic future. He said that investments in rail are a win/win for both freight and passenger services.

The bill supports the FRA’s priorities of safety, economic growth, and building programs that will benefit as many citizens as possible. With NCDOT’s track record of successfully planning for and delivering dozens of rail projects in partnership with the FRA, and with even more high-impact rail projects in the pipeline, North Carolina is well positioned to continue partnering with them, our state’s railroads, and neighboring states to progress transformative rail projects.

John Dillard, Director of State Relations at CSX Transportation, Inc, gave an overview of the CSX system, the core intermodal service triangle in their network, and how locating the CCX Carolina Connector Intermodal Facility in Rocky Mount was a logical and well-coordinated addition to their network. Since opening in November, initial volumes are very good, and the workflow has been seamless, congestion free and safe. 

Regarding the infrastructure law, Dillard acknowledged the opportunities it offers. CSX and NCDOT have a strong history of successful projects that provides a basis for working together on future projects.

Ray Lang, Vice President of State-Supported Services at Amtrak, spoke on expanding passenger rail service in North Carolina and the Southeast and the importance of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in supporting rail infrastructure in the United States. The $66 billion in advance appropriations allocated nationally for rail is the largest infusion of funding for rail projects in history.

The funding for intercity passenger rail is structured to help states grow rail corridor services. Mr. Lang noted that 49% of Amtrak ridership is on trains operated in partnership with states. 

Watch the session from the N.C. Transportation Summit