Rail service to Asheville could have $1B economic impact, study says

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Restoring passenger rail service to Asheville could deliver more than $1 billion in economic benefits to Western North Carolina and support thousands of jobs, according to a new study released by the N.C. Department of Transportation.

The Western North Carolina Rail Corridor Economic Impact Report examines the potential effects of reestablishing passenger rail service between Salisbury and Asheville. State transportation officials say the corridor would strengthen connections between the Blue Ridge region and major population and economic centers across North Carolina.

“The Western NC rail corridor presents a unique opportunity to strengthen regional connectivity, support local economies, and create a more resilient and dynamic transportation system for North Carolina,” Jason Orthner, director of NCDOT’s Rail Division, said in a news release.

The proposed route would link Asheville and surrounding mountain communities with the Charlotte metropolitan area, the Piedmont Triad and the Research Triangle, improving access for residents, workers and visitors while supporting long-term economic growth, the report found.

During construction, capital investment along the Salisbury-to-Asheville corridor is projected to generate an average of 5,270 jobs per year, along with $360.5 million in employee earnings and $1.05 billion in economic output. The study estimates the project would also generate $33.6 million in state and local tax revenue during implementation.

Once operational, passenger rail service in Western North Carolina is expected to support about 200 permanent jobs, $23.4 million in annual earnings and nearly $67 million in economic output each year, with an additional $2.1 million in recurring state and local tax revenue.

NCDOT officials say interest in the corridor reflects growing demand to better connect Western North Carolina to the state’s existing intercity passenger rail network.

The project is not currently funded.

NCDOT continues to promote existing rail service through NC By Train, which operates routes across central and eastern North Carolina and offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, charging outlets and discounted fares for children, students, military members, veterans and seniors.