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Lycoming Valley Railroad: Operating The Ex-NYC And Reading

Published: August 2, 2024

By: Adam Burns

The Lycoming Valley Railroad (reporting mark, LVRR), a division of the North Shore Railroad, is a short line that operates in north-central Pennsylvania, serving primarily Lycoming and Clinton counties.

Established in 1996, the LVRR is owned by the North Shore Railroad and runs on former Conrail tracks (ex-Reading and New York Central).  The railroad maintains 38 miles today and its heritage consists of ex-Reading trackage from Williamsport to Northumberland while its line west of Williamsport to Avis is ex-NYC.

The railroad plays a pivotal role in the region by providing essential freight services to various industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and energy.

As an integral part of the regional transportation infrastructure, LVRR interchanges with major Class I railroads such as Norfolk Southern.

The LVRR's operations are notable for their focus on serving local businesses with tailored logistic solutions. Key commodities transported along the line include lumber, grain, plastic resins, paper products, and aggregate materials.

In particular, the railroad has capitalized on the Marcellus Shale gas development, providing critical support to the energy sector through the transport of drilling supplies and equipment.

Lycoming Valley SW9s #231 and #239 layover at the main yard in Williamsport, PA on December 14, 2023. Doug Kroll photo.

History

The tracks currently operated by the LVRR have a storied history, tracing back to their origins as part of the Reading and New York Central railroads. These lines were later incorporated into Conrail following its 1976 startup.

The SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority (JRA) was established in July 1983 to maintain rail service in communities where Conrail was continuing to shed trackage it deemed redundant. By 1996, the JRA acquired the line, giving rise to the Lycoming Valley.  At the time it was the JRA's fifth short line operation.

The history of railroads in the Williamsport area is rich and significant. Vast timber forests and nearby coal deposits attracted early railroads to the region.

In December 1854, the Sunbury & Erie Railroad, a predecessor of the Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR), extended northward through Williamsport. Following suit, the Catawissa, Williamsport & Erie Railroad, a predecessor of the Reading, operated its trains to Williamsport via the Sunbury & Erie until it completed its own line in 1871.

The New York Central's presence arrived in 1883 with the Pine Creek Railroad, which connected Wellsboro and Newberry to transport coal.

By 1976, these routes were merged into Conrail. However, with Conrail's subsequent divestment, the SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority took ownership, and as of August 15, 1996, the LVRR has managed these lines.

Today

The LVRR primarily stretches westward, connecting the towns of Muncy and Avis. Along its route, the line serves several key communities, including Montoursville, Williamsport, Linden, and Jersey Shore. The majority of the 38-mile route lies within Lycoming County, with a single mile extending into Clinton County.

Tracking north and then pivoting west, the LVRR follows the scenic left bank of the West Branch Susquehanna River. Its path roughly parallels major transportation routes, such as Interstate 180 and U.S. Route 220, offering picturesque views along the way.

Headquartered in Northumberland, Pennsylvania, the LVRR boasts strategic connections to major rail networks. It interchanges with Norfolk Southern at both Muncy and Linden, ensuring seamless logistics solutions. Additionally, there is an indirect link to the Canadian Pacific, further enhancing its connectivity.

A highlight of the LVRR's community engagement is the occasional train excursions organized by the Lycoming County Visitors Bureau.

Departing from Williamsport, these journeys take passengers to Jersey Shore or Muncy and back. The railroad offers very popular seasonal excursions to view the fall foliage as well as the "Polar Express" trips with a visit from Santa Claus.

Diesel Roster

The LVRR features a livery inspired by the Reading, including the diamond logo and classic green and yellow colors.

Moreover, the LVRR benefits from trackage rights via the NS line. These rights allow the railroad to establish vital connections to other regional railroads.

To the west, it links with the Nittany and Bald Eagle Railroad at Lock Haven. To the south, it connects with the Union County Industrial Railroad at Milton, the North Shore Railroad at Northumberland, and the Shamokin Valley Railroad at Sunbury.

This extensive network ensures the LVRR remains a crucial transportation artery for north-central Pennsylvania.