Supporting Existing Customers: Trinity Plastics Expansion

A specific example of assisting an existing customer with development is Trinity Plastics in Lewistown, PA. Trinity has been served by our Juniata Valley Railroad (JVRR) since we began operation in 1996. Over the past 26 years, Trinity has continued to grow. Trinity came to us with a need for more track space to hold additional railcars of raw material on the plant’s site. The concept of adding a second track on the opposite side of their unloading manifold system and original siding was proposed several years ago by our Chief Marketing Officer, Todd Hunter. Trinity liked the idea and elected to move forward. Construction started late last year. Trinity worked with their contractor to coordinate in a way that would not interrupt the flow of raw materials. Their first loaded railcars were spotted this past month!

It is always exciting to see our customers growing, expanding, and doing so well. Congratulations on your expansion, Trinity Plastics!

Bringing in New Business: Masters of High and Wides

In 2017, our company received the trifecta of short line railroad awards (making us the only railroad to be honored with the three largest short line industry awards in the same year). These accolades were in response to our company’s work and success in handling high and wide loads. Well, we are at it again! This year, we have secured the business of handling several more of these dimensional shipments – taking massive amounts of weight off of roads and bridges. Our Maintenance of Way, Signals and Communications, and Train & Engine Service Departments make this specialty service as efficient, convenient, and safe as possible for the receiver – making our railroads the ideal choice for dimensional shipments in our region.

Playing Well With Others: FOCUS Central Pennsylvania 2022 Industrial Development Forum

Some companies may look at our involvement and sponsorship in organizations like FOCUS Central PA and ask “Why would you invest your money in these organizations?” It would be a fair question, but the answer is simple. As stated earlier, we get involved in many (or almost all) aspects of development. From the initial concepts with customers, to the design, development, and customer service issues that come with starting up operations, our Marketing staff has a first-hand knowledge of what is happening along the way. In many cases, this is what gives us an edge. We are boots on the ground, and we know where there may be a piece of ground available that is not even listed on the market. We know what local economic factors may play into any developments, and we know what historical events may have an impact on the local community.

This past month, we sponsored and participated in the FOCUS Central PA Industrial Development Forum at Susquehanna University. Our very own Joe Kantz, Business & Development Manager, was the Master of Ceremonies. Again, it’s not just our finances that go into being a part of an organization but our employees’ time as well. Joe worked with Focus Central PA staff and Board of Directors for weeks prior to the event - to make sure it would go off without a hitch. The day-long conference proved to be a resounding success. Participants were able to meet many new professionals, network with prior connections, and even speak with new contacts about some really great leads. Our involvement may have led to the planting of seeds that will be cultivated for years to come.

When asked about the forum, Joe said, "I was honored to be a part of the planning of FOCUS IDF 2022. Lauren Bryson and our event committee did an incredible job to attract more than 320 participating professionals. What a great day of networking! I was especially pleased to see some of our current and future customers attend as well. I think 2022 will be a great year of announcements on future expansion and industrial development in our region."

Hats off to FOCUS Central PA for a job well done on the planning and execution of what is quickly becoming one of the premier Industrial Development Conferences in Pennsylvania. Great job, everyone!

Recognizing Where the Success Comes From: Employees

We would not be able to market our lines if it were not for the amazing employees we have. We have a tremendous team – from conductors and engineers to signals and track maintainers... from railcar and locomotive repairmen to back-end office staff – our employees are the reason our company is successful!

Willing and Ready to Work for You: Let’s Talk!

Do you have a project you are working on and would like to hear what we can do to help? Give us a call!

Railroad Day on Capitol Hill

This past month, our Public Relations & Media Manager, Loni Martz Briner, joined many other railroads and industry partners for #RailDay2022. Thank you to everyone from our Nation's Capitol who took the time to meet with all of us to discuss the value and importance of the rail industry!

Railroad Day on the Hill was a collaboration of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, Association of American Railroads, and GoRail.

Fun Fact: Did you know freight rail accounts for 40% of US intercity freight but less than 2% of transportation emissions?

Coming Soon to the Lycoming Valley Railroad!

Watch our next issue of On Track for pictures of and more information about the NS Rail Safety & Emergency Response Training in Williamsport, PA.