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Maryland Midland Railway: Operating The Ex-PRR/WM

Published: July 30, 2024

By: Adam Burns

The Maryland Midland Railway (MMID) is a short-line operating within central Maryland.  Known for its pivotal role in regional freight transportation, the Class III maintains roughly 63 miles of ex-Pennsylvania and Western Maryland trackage and serves as a vital link for industries and communities within this region of the state.

The railway's operations stretch from Highfield, in the west to Emory Grove, in the east.

Additionally, it operates a line running from Woodsboro, in the south to Taneytown, in the north. The northern terminus is located just beyond Ferrellgas, a propane dealer situated near Angell Road.

Initially headquartered in the historic WM station in Union Bridge, the railway has since relocated to a modern facility nearby. Since 2008, the Maryland Midland has been a 100% subsidiary of Genesee & Wyoming.

This article explores the history of the Maryland Midland, its evolution over the years, and its current operations.

Maryland Midland F7A #101 heads for the CSX interchange with a short train near Detour, Maryland on July 2, 1991. Wade Massie photo.

Creation

Operations for the Maryland Midland Railway commenced in 1980 on a segment of the former Pennsylvania Railroad's Frederick Secondary line, running from Taneytown to Walkersville, Maryland.

In 1983, the railway greatly expanded by purchasing the ex-Western Maryland between Emory Grove and Highfield from Chessie System during a time when that system was rapidly shedding ex-WM and B&O trackage from its network.

The MMID's establishment was driven by the need to maintain rail service for local industries, particularly those in agriculture and manufacturing. 

In late 1993, the company proposed an ambitious plan to rebuild the abandoned Frederick Secondary from Taneytown to York, Pennsylvania. This revitalization aimed to expand service and a secondary interchange with Conrail.

However, the project was ultimately deemed too costly due to high price demands from local landowners.

Early Growth and Expansion

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s the railroad continued to invest in its proprety and focus on customer service.  This effort led to a significant increase in carloads.  Business jumped from 200 carloads during the 1980s to 18,000 by 2006.

Genesee & Wyoming

In 2008, the Maryland Midland was acquired by Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W), a global operator of short-line and regional railroads. This acquisition brought new resources and expertise to the MMID, facilitating further improvements in operations and service quality.

Under G&W's ownership, the MMID has benefited from strategic investments in infrastructure and technology. These investments have strengthened the railway's ability to serve its customers and compete in an evolving transportation landscape.

As of 2023, MMID operates 81 miles of track, which is fully compatible with 286,000-pound railcars, ensuring its continued importance in regional freight transportation.

Maryland Midland GP9 #202 is on the ex-PRR Frederick Branch toting a single hopper near Ladiesburg, Maryland on July 2, 1991. Wade Massie photo.

Present Day

Today, the Maryland Midland Railway operates a total of 81 miles, serving central Maryland and extending into southern Pennsylvania. Its primary line runs from the CSX interchanges at Emory Grove and Highfield, as well as the previously mentioned ex-PRR between Taneytown and Woodsboro.

Key industries served include agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and energy. The railway transports a wide range of commodities, including grain, aggregates, cement, lumber, and chemicals.

Diesel Roster (All-Time)

Maryland Midland F7A #101 shoves a string of covered hoppes down Farquhar Street in Union Bridge bound for the nearby Lehigh Portland Cement plant on July 2, 1991. To eliminate the street-running a new spur has since been constructed to serve the plant. Wade Massie photo.

Conclusion

The Maryland Midland's journey from its early beginnings to its present-day operations reflects a legacy of adaptation, innovation, and commitment to service.

As a vital link in the transportation network of central Maryland, the MMID continues to play a crucial role in supporting regional economic growth and connecting communities.