Today, in a landmark moment, the first CSX train since Hurricane Helene’s destruction has rolled into Spruce Pine. Helene tore up miles of track, leading to a massive repair effort to restore service. CSX officially reopened the Blue Ridge Subdivision through Mitchell County for regular operations on Tuesday, September 23.
Thursday the first coal train made the first regular, non-work train on the line since the storm. Leading the way is a special engine painted to honor the historic Clinchfield Railroad. Trains will move at reduced speeds at first to allow the rebuilt track to settle, so arrival times may vary.
As the anniversary of Hurricane Helene approaches, the return of trains marks an important step toward restoring a sense of normalcy for Spruce Pine and Mitchell County.
Photo by David Biddix
