former CSX Cowen Sub, new A&O shortline

Is anyone here interested in the events in rural West Virginia, where CSX has leased it's former Cowen subdivision to the Appalachian and Ohio Railroad?

Sorry, but any mentioning of leasing loses my interest and leaves a sour taste in the mouth.

I wouldn't mind hearing about them.

It is a shame about that sour taste. A lot of neat things are going on down there, from what I hear. Anyway, here are some details from Watco's website...

The Appalachian and Ohio Railroad (A&O) is located in the heart of the historically lucrative Gauley coalfields of West Virginia. The 158-mile segment of track runs from Grafton to Cowen, West Virginia, on former B&O territory. Also included in the 158 miles is the former Pickens Subdivision, running from Hampton, south to Alexander.

Previously a CSX property, Watco Companies took over operations March 25, 2005, and expects to move 90,000 carloads the first year.

Formerly known as the Cowen and Pickens Subdivisions of the B&O, this rail line produces a large portion of the coal trains from the northern West Virginia area. Coal makes up 95% of the route's traffic, mainly steam coal for power plants in the North and Mid-Atlantic states. A small percentage is exported.

"Old Heads" of the railroad refer to the northern section as "The Funnel", which includes the line from Grafton south the Hampton Junction. Additionally, the southern section from Hampton Junction to Cowen is known as "The End of the World." The Pickens Subdivision, located south from Hampton Junction to Alexander, runs along the south bank of the Buckhannon River.

The A&O is a unique segment of railroad because of the customer base and the geography. Passing through some of West Virginia's most scenic and rugged terrain, the A&O' intends to provide the most efficient and affordable transportation packages available.

For more information, contact Bob Davidson, Marketing Manager, at (304)-472-3710 or (620)-232-0824.

Click here to view the press release regarding the lease of this line from the CSX.

The A&O is currently accepting applications from experienced candidates for all positions.

Thanks For sharing those about the RR. One more question what is the Power on that line?

There is an extremly interesting well done and written article on exactly this topic in the May Raipace. If you are interested, you sould pick up a copy.

http://railpace.com/

Brooks

dkgrubb wrote:Previously a CSX property....................

The A&O is currently accepting applications from experienced candidates for all positions.

And you wonder why as a CSXT employee the mention of "leasing" lines leaves a sour taste in my mouth?!? Because it is just an attempt to save money which will result in the loss of many jobs.