Ribbon cutting ceremony marks beginning of new job opportunities in the North Country




NORTH CREEK, N.Y. (August 8, 2012) – The Saratoga & North Creek Railway today launched the first freight train service to traverse the Sanford Lake Branch line in over 20 years with a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the new venture. The re-opening of the historic line is expected to create up to 20 new rail transportation jobs in the North Country.

Officials from Iowa Pacific Holdings, Inc. and the Saratoga & North Creek Railway were joined by representatives from the Federal Railroad Administration, the Canadian Pacific Railway, Barton Mines and local dignitaries for the opening of the first segment of the future Tahawus line for freight transportation.

“Iowa Pacific Holdings is proud to invest in the re-opening of this line and, ultimately, in the future of freight train service in upstate New York,” said Iowa Pacific Holdings, Inc. President Ed Ellis. “Due to rising fuel costs, and the environmental benefits of trains over trucks, freight rail is picking up steam all over the country. We look forward to continuing our expansion of the Saratoga & North Creek Railway.”

Immediately following the ribbon cutting, guests rode a ceremonial inspection train six miles to North River before briefly stopping behind the Barton Mines plant and then returning to North Creek. The locomotive 52, flat car, and caboose were the first cars to run on the newly refurbished tracks since 1989.

The six mile line will be used to ship garnet and other minerals from current and decades-past mining operations to market. The freight cars will also be available to carry lumber and other materials.

The Saratoga & North Creek Railway will continue work on the line until it is fully operational between North Creek and Tahawus. The project could take up to a year to complete.

For passenger train schedules and more information about the Saratoga & North Creek Railway, please visit www.sncrr.com.  

About the Saratoga & North Creek Railway
The Saratoga & North Creek Railway is offering visitors a unique way to experience the Adirondack region. With seven stops between its destinations in North Creek and Saratoga Springs, the rail line provides easy access to many friendly towns in the region complete with dining, museums, shopping and special events. Those wishing to find more information on schedules, events, depots and pricing should visit www.sncrr.com or call 877-726-RAIL (7245)