The North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR) is to invest up to $250,000 to support the construction of a new rail spur serving Atlantic Packaging’s warehouse expansion in Tabor City.
The branch line will connect Atlantic Packaging’s recently acquired warehouse – which, once operational, will be the company’s sixth facility in the vicinity – to the freight rail network, allowing it to receive raw materials and paper by rail.
The connecting track is expected to receive and distribute at least 480 rail cars annually. Atlantic Packaging plans to invest more than $5 million in the project and create 16 new full-time jobs.
The company provides consumer product packaging across industries, including food and beverage, and ships to more than 35 locations inside the US and internationally.
‘A competitive advantage’
“Freight rail gives North Carolina manufacturers a competitive advantage,” said Carl Warren, president and chief executive of the NCRR.
“This investment helps an established North Carolina company expand its operations, strengthens the state’s supply chain and demonstrates how strategic rail infrastructure creates opportunities for businesses and communities alike.”
Tabor City mayor Royce Harper added: “This project is exactly the kind of partnership that helps communities grow. Atlantic Packaging has been an important part of Tabor City’s economy for many years.
“Adding rail service to this facility supports the company’s continued investment here, while creating new jobs and strengthening our local economy.”
The NCRR Invests grant programme is providing the funding. It uses private revenue to fund rail infrastructure projects that are said to help attract new industry and support the expansion of existing businesses across North Carolina.
It manages 317 miles of rail corridor.
