Railroads CSX and CPKC will invest in connecting their networks to increase traffic in Southeast

CSX and CPKC railroads announced a deal Wednesday that will allow them to beef up a little-used connection between their two networks in the southeastern United States to handle a significant amount of freight. The deal involves a section of track linking the two massive railroads that is currently used only for local traffic. This could one day turn it into a major pipeline for all kinds of cargo. The plan calls for CPKC to acquire about 50 miles of track between Meridian, Mississippi and Myrtlewood, Alabama, from a short-line railroad. CSX will take over the line it currently leases to the Meridian & Bigbee Railroad that runs east to Montgomery, Alabama. CPKC CEO Keith Creel said the two larger railroads plan to invest in upgrades to the rail line, so it can handle more traffic.