For several years, the industrial track was truncated just south of US 22. Now, the track has been restored and e-built back onto the quarry property. There is a 2-track stub end facility that can load about 10 cars at a time from ground storage. At present, NJ Transit is the only user, loading ballast for their own track maintenance. Norfolk Southern retains the freight rights for any revenue traffic opportunities. This quarry was one of the sites serviced by Conrail's "Conveyor Train" circa 1990 - 1994. This 10 car hopper train used an 11th boom car to deliver stone and sand to several customers in the North Jersey area. Powered by 4-axle engines on both ends, the train was unloaded by the conductor, thanks to a special labor agreement. The crew could put 950-ton into a pile 50-feet from the track, in about 1 hour. This innovative effort to compete with short haul trucks was marginally successful, hampered by numerous operational, track and mechanical limitations. Conrail returned the Conveyor Train to the builder (Georgetown Railroad). It was upgraded and converted to ballast service for use by other railroads.
|
|