North Carolina Railroad Company Drives Recovery in Western NC Post-Hurricane Helene

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, which tore through Western North Carolina a year ago, the North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR) is playing a pivotal role in restoring the local economy. By deploying its comprehensive Back-on-Track Disaster Recovery Program, NCRR has invested a remarkable $8.2 million, demonstrating its commitment to revitalizing businesses and communities affected by the devastating storm.

A Lifeline for Local Businesses

Carl Warren, NCRR's president and CEO, encapsulates the program's essence, stating, "Back-on-Track is more than a grant; it's a commitment to North Carolina's people and economy." This initiative not only offers financial aid but also ensures strategic support and rapid action to protect jobs and facilitate the movement of goods.

For instance, Premier Magnesia LLC, recently acquired by Martin Marietta, received a hefty $3 million to counteract transportation costs incurred after its plant in Waynesville was severely impacted by flooding. The storm's aftereffects led to destroyed rail lines, forcing the company to rely on trucking for raw materials, increasing costs significantly for seven months. Senior Vice President of Manufacturing Operations, Matt Haynes, praised NCRR's timely assistance, highlighting how it helped stabilize their supply chain during a critical period, allowing production to continue uninterrupted.

Similarly, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company faced its challenges when flooding wrecked its grain offloading system in Fletcher. With two feet of mud and damaged infrastructure, the brewery turned to the Back-on-Track program for financial support. Receiving up to $900,000 allowed Sierra Nevada to repair its rail spur and manage temporary trucking costs effectively. Mandi McKay, the company’s Chief Sustainability and Social Impact Officer, emphasized the program's timely support, showcasing how NCRR helped maintain operations and reinforced community ties.

Comprehensive Support for Communities

NCRR’s initiative extends beyond individual businesses; it significantly assists rail-dependent companies and local economies facing substantial losses. The program has allocated resources toward nonprofit economic development organizations, focusing on strategic disaster recovery planning. Communities across Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Swain, Watauga, and Wilkes counties have benefitted from this impact fund, showcasing NCRR's commitment to regional recovery.

The success of the Back-on-Track initiative has not gone unnoticed. The International Economic Development Council recognized NCRR with the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award, highlighting the innovative approach that extends beyond mere infrastructure recovery. The program has fostered long-term economic resilience and stability, allowing businesses to bounce back and protect jobs.

As the recovery efforts continue, NCRR remains resolute in supporting North Carolina communities, reinforcing their vital rail infrastructure and ensuring that every mile forward contributes to a stronger, more resilient economy. This dedication underscores not just a response to a crisis but a transformative vision for the future of North Carolina.

Conclusion

For over 175 years, the North Carolina Railroad Company has been the backbone of economic growth in the state. Managing 317 miles of rail corridors, NCRR leverages its expertise and resources to bring about tangible benefits for local communities. The Back-on-Track program highlights the organization’s mission to ensure that rail remains a viable transport option, while its vision fosters opportunities for sustained economic growth in North Carolina. For further information about NCRR's initiatives, visit ncrr.com.