CSX Porter Branch

[brianpwestgate]

Why was the Porter Branch given to CSX instead of perhaps making it an extension of IHB? When was the old Michigan Central diamond removed?

[Typhoon]

Why was the Porter Branch given to CSX instead of perhaps making it an extension of IHB?

Why would the IHB want it?

[Typhoon]

Yes, being at the mercy of another railroad is usually something they try to avoid. Conrail was very busy and CSX trains would often spend hours at Porter or East Curtis waiting to get on the Chicago Line. Taking the Porter Branch to the B&O at Willow Creek would’ve eliminated that issue.

Eliminated, no, changed yes. Instead of spending hours trying to get onto the NS, the trains would spend hours trying to get across the NS. Just another Vickers.

[SD80MAC]

Fair point!

[justalurker66]

CN makes it across NS in South Bend. NS should be able to find a window for CSX to cross at Porter if the path existed. It might even be less disruptive than trains taking up space between Porter and East Curtis.

[Standard Railfan]

CN makes it across NS in South Bend. NS should be able to find a window for CSX to cross at Porter if the path existed. It might even be less disruptive than trains taking up space between Porter and East Curtis.

NS earns revenue when CSX uses the line between Porter and East Curtis. I can’t imagine why NS would spend resources to make less money unless NS benefits from the investment.