According to NS, the Blue Ridge Connector will:
- Connect shippers in Northeast Georgia to 35 global container services via Savannah ports.
- Serve key industries, including consumer goods, food, forest products, heavy equipment, and more.
- Reduce a 600-mile truck roundtrip per container.
- Create capacity for 200,000 annual lifts on 18,000 feet of track.
- Do it more sustainably with electric cranes.
“It’s a long-term investment by public and private partners in smart, sustainable logistics,” NS said in a release.
Additionally, NS announced a $300,000 contribution to Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville to help rebuild its rooftop—a cherished part of the hospital’s pediatric care.
Originally opened in the early 2000s, the playground was retired in 2019 for safety reasons—leaving a noticeable gap for children and families.
“This playground brought joy, comfort, and a sense of normalcy to our pediatric patients for many years,” said Gentry Hunt, Director of Pediatrics at NGMC. “Thanks to Norfolk Southern’s incredible generosity, we’re restoring more than a play area—we’re restoring moments of hope and happiness for families who need it most. It speaks volumes about their long-term commitment to this community.”
The new, inclusive playground will allow children of all abilities to play, recover, and find joy. Hope for Hall, a local nonprofit focused on accessible play, will assist in its development.
“We hope that when people see more Norfolk Southern trains roll through Northeast Georgia in the coming years, they see more than just a passing locomotive,” said NS President and CEO Mark George. “We hope the Thoroughbred becomes a symbol of our long-term commitment to supporting a thriving community and serving as a beacon of sustainable, reliable transport. This new playground reflects that commitment—an investment in the well-being of families in this region and a tribute to the incredible, life-saving work being done every day at Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville.”
“Thanks to Norfolk Southern and others, we’ll be able to provide a safe and fun play area for our pediatric patients once again,” said NGHS COO John Kueven.
“Norfolk Southern is showing up where it counts. That’s the power of rail in the right place,” said NS.
