Train traffic, speeds to increase on Indiana railroad route

Train traffic on a rail line between Louisville and Seymour will increase starting around Sept. 1.

The speed of trains on the line will increase incrementally over several weeks from a current maximum speed of 25 mph to a speed limit of 49 mph, The Courier-Journal reported. In turn, the number of trains will increase from three or four each day to around 10 each day.

CSX Transportation officials said train length may also increase up to 14,000 feet long.

Company spokeswoman Laura Phelps said in an email that the federal Surface Transportation Board approved an agreement between the Louisville & Indiana Railroad and CSX in 2015 that gives CSX a permanent easement to operate over the railroad's 106-mile corridor between Indianapolis and Louisville.

"This is a critical route that improves CSX connectivity to Midwest markets and offers more efficiency and routing options for automotive and intermodal trains," Phelps said. "This agreement also enhances rail access for the Port of Indiana-Jeffersonville and increases efficient service for both LIRC and CSX customers."

Phelps said CSX is spending about $100 million for infrastructure improvements to support the increased train traffic over the rail line, including the installation of new track, upgrades to the rail bed structure and highway-rail grade crossing improvements.

CSX and the Louisville & Indiana rail organization have conducted training with crews operating on the route and first responders in the communities along the line, according to Phelps.

"Representatives from both railroads have provided, and will continue to provide, updates to community leaders as the project progresses."