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Virginia Short Line Railroads: A Complete Guide

Published: April 5, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Buckingham Branch Railroad (reporting mark, BB): This short line began service in 1989 over former C&O trackage between Bremo Bluff and Dillwyn, acquired from CSX that year.

Today, the railroad has grown substantially and now operates two additional segments, between Clifton Forge and Richmond via Staunton/Charlottesville as well as between Burkeville and Clarksville. Its trackage totals 275 miles over these three divisions. It handles a variety of freight and also offers transload services.

Chesapeake & Albemarle Railroad (reporting mark, CA):  The Chesapeake and Albemarle operates in the southeastern region of Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Established in 1990, the CA was created to manage approximately 68 miles of rail previously owned by Norfolk Southern. The railroad's primary line extends from Chesapeake, Virginia, down to Edenton, North Carolina, weaving through parts of Camden and Currituck counties.

The CA is primarily involved in freight transportation, offering vital links for regional industries to the national rail network. It facilitates the movement of various commodities, including agricultural products, lumber, sand, and military supplies, contributing significantly to local economies. The railroad connects with larger carriers like CSX Transportation, enabling efficient logistics and supply chain solutions for businesses along its route.

Over the years, the railroad has invested in infrastructure improvements to enhance reliability and service quality. This has included upgrades to track conditions and bridges to support heavier loads and modernized equipment.

The CA's strategic location and efficient operations have made it an essential player in the region's transportation landscape, offering bespoke freight services tailored to the needs of local industries while maintaining a focus on safety and sustainability.

Commonwealth Railway (reporting mark, CWRY): The Commonwealth Railway began operations in 1989 when it acquired about 16 miles of the former Norfolk, Franklin & Danville between Suffolk and Portsmouth from NS that year.

It has been a subsidiary of G&W since 1996 with traffic consisting of intermodal containers and chemicals. The short line connects with both Class I's.

Delmarva Central Railroad (reporting mark, DCR):  Delmarva Central is a vital freight railroad company serving the Delmarva Peninsula, covering areas of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.

Established in 2016, the railroad emerged from a lease agreement with Norfolk Southern Railway, inheriting a strategic network that enhances regional connectivity. Operating over 200 miles of track, DCR links key agricultural, chemical, energy, and aggregate industries to larger rail networks, facilitating efficient supply chain solutions and driving economic growth across the region.

Based in Dover, Delaware, DCR offers tailored rail services that handle diverse freight needs, such as the transportation of grain, recycled metals, chemicals, and various agricultural products. 

Norfolk & Portsmouth Belt Line Railroad (reporting mark, NPB): This historic terminal line has been in operation since 1898 to serve the Port of Norfolk. It currently operates 63 miles of track, including trackage rights, and is jointly owned by NS and CSX.

North Carolina & Virginia Railroad (reporting mark, NCVA):  The NCVA is a short line operating in the southeastern United States. Established in 1987, the railroad primarily serves the agricultural and industrial sectors across northeastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia. The NCVA operates approximately 49 miles of track, linking Wilson, North Carolina, to Boykins, Virginia.

The railroad specializes in freight services, offering a vital connection to major Class I railroads, enhancing the region's access to national and international markets. The commodities transported via the NCVA include grain, lumber, fertilizer, and various industrial products, reflecting the agricultural and business demands of the region.

The NCVA is part of a larger network of short-line and regional railroads operated by Genesee & Wyoming Inc., a prominent freight rail company that manages daily operations and maintenance. 

Shenandoah Valley Railroad (reporting mark, SVRR): The Shenandoah Valley Railroad, currently operated by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley began in 1993 on original Baltimore & Ohio trackage between Pleasant Valley (near Harrisonburg) and Staunton, purchased from Norfolk Southern.

The history of the property traces back to the same name as a subsidiary of the B&O created in 1867 and its attempt to establish a southern connection deep into Virginia. The system primarily handles agriculture but also offers transload services.

Virginia Southern Railroad (reporting mark, VSRR): The Virginia Southern Railroad is owned by the Buckingham Branch, operating between Oxford, North Carolina and Burkeville, Virginia. It first began service in 1988 through the NS Thoroughbred Program over former Southern trackage.

Winchester & Western Railroad (reporting mark, WW):  

The Winchester & Western is a short line distinguished for serving the northeastern United States, primarily spanning regions of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

Established in 1916, the WW was originally constructed to support local industries, notably lumber and sand operations in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. This foundational focus on facilitating industrial transport has remained central to its operations.

Over the decades, the railroad expanded through various acquisitions, connecting with larger rail networks and enhancing its freight service capability. As of the 21st century, the WW primarily transports commodities such as aggregates, building materials, and agricultural products, serving as a critical transportation link for local businesses.

In addition to its core freight services, the WW is recognized for maintaining a reliable and flexible operation, adapting to the evolving needs of its customers while ensuring safe and efficient transport. This adaptability and customer-centric approach have been instrumental in its long-term success and enduring legacy in the railroad industry.

Known for its commitment to safety and customer service, the Winchester and Western Railroad continues to play a vital role in supporting regional economies by providing efficient and cost-effective rail solutions alongside the scenic backdrop of the Mid-Atlantic landscapes.