NS to mothball 50 miles of coal lines in West Virginia In a story that originated as a vicious rumor, but provided to be reality earlier this week, Norfolk Southern confirmed it would shift trains off of its former Virginian Railway P-D District between Elmore Yard and P.D. Junction, diverting eastern coal loads (and their respective westbound empties) via the Guyandotte River and Gilbert Branch effective Oct. 1. This announcement shifts all rail traffic away from the picturesque Clarks Gap route and replaces the famed "hill runs" distinctive to the Virginian. This route is full of large viaducts, a 2.2 percent grade, and several tunnels. This is the route of the former Virginian electrics, too. Here, pictured on the morning of Sep. 23, NS U86 spans Covel trestle with 100 loads of Belews Creek loads in tow.
This is dedicated (with permission) to the skilled and gifted photographer - Chase Gunnoe - who regularly posts and is on staff with RP. I believe he deserves a gallery showcasing his remarkable photos. This is for you Chase! (More great photos to come!)
