Watco

06/17/2026

Sometimes moving freight isn’t as simple as it appears. Whatever the challenge, Watco finds solutions to help keep America moving. https://www.aslrra.org/news/views-and-news/views-news-061026/

The location's right next to the rail line. Should be easy to connect them and set up service, right?

Actually, no.

The "straightforward plans" are not always as they seem in the freight rail world. But short lines can figure out how to make it work. That's what ASLRRA member Kanawha River Railroad did when it worked with customer Alpha Metallurgical Resources to establish service to a new coal mine in Pax, West Virginia.

The project required new rail infrastructure, new locomotives and a plan to navigate physically challenging terrain with only one place for trains to pass each other.

The result? AlphaMet was able to build a new mine and bring the community new jobs and valuable economic growth -- without relying on the estimated 30,000 trucks it would have taken to move 1.2 million tons of coal. This new business will increase Kanawha River Railroad's annual carloads by 50% and revenue by 40%, and the railroad plans to hire up to 10 new team members to support this effort. Watco

Want to read the full story? Check out our ASLRRA Member Spotlight in this week's issue of our e-newsletter Views & News: https://www.aslrra.org/news/views-and-news/views-news-061026/

06/16/2026

Among her teammates in Revenue Accounting, Shalae Bastian is best known as a problem solver, team builder, and supportive mentor. Find out how she brings value to the Watco team at https://bit.ly/4euE2Rb

06/13/2026

We’ll pick two new photo contest winners soon! Submit your shots to [email protected] by June 19 for your chance to win $100 or $200.

06/11/2026

You can’t move material without heavy equipment. Steel, coal, aggregates, and more pass through Port Birmingham in Alabama, and someone has to run and maintain the equipment that makes it happen. Learn why Equipment Operator Nick Wayman is proud to keep America moving.

06/10/2026

Remember: The only safe (and legal) place to cross railroad tracks is at designated crossings. Learn more safety tips at https://oli.org/safety-near-trains/track-safety-basics.

Railroad property is private property. That includes tracks, trains, bridges, tunnels and rail yards. Walking, biking or taking photos on or near them is dangerous and illegal.

06/09/2026

The installation of smart cameras and other new technology, along with implementing systems like distributive power, are strengthening operations across Watco’s transportation network. Find out how it creates value at https://bit.ly/4uehBFp.

06/05/2026

The Decatur & Eastern Illinois Railroad is manifesting a successful corn harvest season in the Midwest.
📍: Pierson, Illinois
📸: Jackson Vandeventer

06/04/2026

May was a milestone month for these Watco teams. Well done on recently marking a safety anniversary.

06/01/2026

We’re kicking off June with a new issue of The Dispatch. Read the latest Watco news including:
🌾How our team partners with farmers to move grain
🚂 New technology and upgrades coming to Watco short lines
🗞️Learn more at https://bit.ly/3RFxkQp

05/29/2026

We’re counting down the days until the Agawa Canyon Tour Train begins the 2026 season. Find out what’s in store at https://bit.ly/3RaDY0X.