TransloadX Plans April Service Restart on 18-Mile CSX Line in Maine
TransloadX plans to lease 18 miles of track between Bucksport and Bangor and a branch line from Waterville to Augusta from CSX to restart rail service on two dormant Maine routes. Lease terms are set to finalize in April pending Surface Transportation Board approval, with CSX’s Maine network handling 26,000 carloads across 481 miles in 2024.
1. TransloadX Lease Plans
TransloadX filed with the Surface Transportation Board to lease 18 miles of track between Bucksport and Bangor and a second branch from Waterville to Augusta. The company, which operates transload services, aims to rebuild infrastructure and attract new rail-served industries through private and public partnerships.
2. Dormant Lines and Past Usage
The Bucksport–Bangor line has been largely unused since a paper mill closure in 2014, while the Augusta branch saw freight shift to trucks two years ago. CSX acquired these routes in its 2022 purchase of Pan Am Railways’ Maine network and has only sporadically used them for soil removal and other specialty movements.
3. CSX Maine Network and Future Outlook
CSX’s Maine network moved 26,000 carloads of mainly paper and forest products over 481 miles in 2024. Lease agreements are expected to be finalized in April, and renewed service could strengthen regional logistics and generate new revenue streams for the line owner.