On another discussion forum some people were wondering if NS is going to bother to re-build the line between Asheville and Old Fort. Some major shippers have shut down in Asheville, there is not all that much on-line business and, prior to the floods, it was only served by a local freight.
The former Clinchfield route has been hit especially hard with miles of track gone in the Nolichucky Gorge and along the Tug River. CSX has said they will rebuild but that could change after further assessments are made. The line was essentially mothballed under the Hunter Harrison regime so that gives you an idea of its strategic importance---or lack thereof.
[
www.altamontpress.com]