CSX Rail Removal on the CC Subdivision - Visalia to Spring Lake

Well this had been rumored for about a year now and it finally happened. CSX makes yet another foolish decision by removing rail from a line that is expected to get an increase in traffic. Another example of CSX cutting costs and trying to make a quick profit without thinking of the long term consequences.

Just 10 months ago, CSX replaced the searchlight signals at Visalia, installing new signals for BOTH tracks. They then proceeded to only use main 1 all the way up until they decided to pull main 2. So there is now brand new infrastructure that will either be taken out or never used. This whole thing makes absolutely no sense. To me, it seems that it would be cheaper to just leave the rails in place and not use them rather than spend time and money have them removed, as well as repave and resign all the crossings. If the rails were left in place, at least they would be there just in case there was ever a need for them. (Which by the way things are going with CSX adding trains to the line, is vey plausible.)

There have been 2 tracks between Visalia and Spring Lake for well over 100 years. This is literally is history in the making and although sad, I am grateful that I was able to witness it first hand and share it online. If you liked this video be sure to hit the like button and let me know in the comments. Check out some of my other videos as well!

UPDATE: As of September 8, 2022 (Almost 2 months after this took place,) CSX is currently laying new rails and ties at Visalia working north. They are ripping up the blacktop crossings they just paved and putting track 2 back. I'm not sure if they are putting it all back or if it's just going to be a short storage track. I will post an update when I find out more information.


Thanks for watching!