CSX Transportation is re-opening its rail line from Memphis to Nashville ahead of schedule after closing down because of flood damage. Some rails washed out. Rushing water twisted two bridges spanning the Harpeth River.
CSX thought it would be mid-June before service could resume on the 200-mile line connecting Tennessee’s two largest cities. Company officials say employees worked long hours to get back on track as shipments had to be rerouted or delayed. The state’s agriculture sector – which uses CSX to transport grain and supplies – has been particularly hard hit
The company has also announced an effort to aid in the financial pinch many counties now face. Spokesman Gary Sease says the company will pre-pay property taxes that aren’t due until next year.
“We find that it is helpful to the states and counties to prepay those taxes so they can apply those funds to the recovery efforts.”
A total of 23 counties in Tennessee will benefit, with more than a million dollars being paid in Davidson County. CSX also prepaid property taxes after Hurricane Katrina.
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