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Wisconsin River Rail Transit Commission NewsOfficials Inspect Janesville - Monroe Rail Line
November 17, 2006 - Members of the Pecatonica Rail Transit Commission, WisDOT staff, and guests were given an up-close inspection of the rail line from Janesville-to-Monroe today. Wisconsin & Southern Railroad officials hosted the event on the Monroe Subdivision aboard the railroad's theater car for officials of the agencies that own the line. The theater car offers a unique view to passengers, who face backwards, and look through a full glass rear-window to see the rail and roadbed in detail as the train travels forward.
The inspection trip was arranged to show recent improvements to the rail infrastructure, trouble spots that still need work, and customer sites along the corridor. Highlights included a new section of 115 lb continuous welded rail at the "Orfordville Hill" that was installed earlier this year. The recently replaced bridge is part of improvementst to 1.2 miles of new 115 lb continuous welded rail east of Orfordville. Together, they dramatically improve safety along a significant grade that has shifted over the years.
The Monroe Subdivision is home to major grain shippers in Orfordville and Brodhead; the Badger State Ethanol plant is located in Monroe. Along with other customers, these shippers have driven carloadings up significantly in recent years and have placed additional demand on the aging rail and bridges.
Although the 10% local match is an important part of the funding equation, the Wisconsin & Southern also makes significant investments in maintenance and upgrades on its own. Because state funds for improvements at Orfordville came available outside of the county budget cycle, the Wisconsin & Southern funded the entire 20% local match for this project.Commissioners were able to see - and feel - exactly how improvements make the railroad safer and more efficient. Whether funded by the railroad, state, or counties (through the rail transit commissions), system improvements give existing rail customers better shipping options and provide incentive for new businesses to locate in communities that have good rail service.
Wisconsin & Southern Railroad is actively working with local representatives to help bring new business to the communities served by the railroad. Upgrades like those seen on today's trip will continue in coming years and will play an important rold in attracting this new business.The PRTC and WRRTC both play important roles in helping improve and maintain railroad service in southern Wisconsin.
Wisconsin River Rail Transit Commission |
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