South Carolina Short Line Restarts After 12-Year Hiatus with Major Shippers

Key Details Palmetto Railways is bringing the 40-mile Salkehatchie Subdivision back online this month after more than a decade of inactivity. The southwestern South Carolina rail line, which last operated in 2012, will now serve two major industrial customers anchoring the revival. Investment and Infrastructure The state-owned railroad has invested over $3 million in rehabilitating the route, including bridge repairs, new ties, and safety upgrades. An additional $6.5 million in infrastructure work is planned for the next two years. The line interchanges with CSX at Hampton and has been cleared for revenue service later in March. New Customers Driving Growth Heidelberg Materials, a major cement and aggregates supplier, is already developing its facility along the line. Wood products company Boise Cascade will begin construction of a new plant this fall. These anchor tenants justify the substantial capital investment and position the line for additional shipper recruitment. Why It Matters The reactivation creates rail access to two large industrial parks near Walterboro, potentially attracting more regional manufacturing and distribution operations. Palmetto is coordinating with local emergency services on rail safety awareness as train operations resume.