Northeast Atlanta Railroad Leases Norfolk Southern Line

The new operator will take over a section of track with an interchange commitment.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:07pm

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The Surface Transportation Board has approved an exemption allowing Northeast Atlanta Railroad, LLC to lease and operate a section of track from Norfolk Southern Railway Company. The lease includes an interchange commitment, which will require the new operator to interchange traffic with Norfolk Southern at designated interchange points.

Why it matters

This transaction will allow Northeast Atlanta Railroad to expand its regional freight rail operations, providing more transportation options for businesses in the Atlanta area. The interchange commitment ensures Norfolk Southern maintains access to the leased track, preserving competition in the local rail market.

The details

Under the approved exemption, Northeast Atlanta Railroad will lease and operate approximately 30 miles of Norfolk Southern's rail line in the Northeast Atlanta region. The lease includes an interchange commitment, requiring Northeast Atlanta Railroad to interchange traffic with Norfolk Southern at designated interchange points along the line.

  • The Surface Transportation Board approved the exemption on March 31, 2026.

The players

Northeast Atlanta Railroad, LLC

A regional freight rail operator that will be leasing and operating a section of track from Norfolk Southern Railway Company.

Norfolk Southern Railway Company

A major Class I freight railroad that is leasing a portion of its rail line to Northeast Atlanta Railroad, LLC.

Surface Transportation Board

The federal agency that regulates interstate surface transportation, including approving rail line leases and operations.

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The takeaway

This lease agreement will expand regional freight rail options in the Atlanta area, while preserving Norfolk Southern's access to the leased track through the interchange commitment, maintaining competition in the local rail market.