The Alabama Port Authority at Mobile announced plans Wednesday for a second inland transfer facility for intermodal containers to be developed in Decatur.
Working in partnership with CSX — one of five Class I railroads serving the seaport — the port plans to redevelop a CSX site in Decatur, providing rail connectivity from the Gulf, through Montgomery, and on to Northern Alabama.
Since the port began work on a similar facility in Montgomery, more than $2.28 billion in capital projects have been announced in the region.
“We are excited to announce the location of our second inland rail facility in Alabama, furthering our dedication to advancing logistics infrastructure in the region,” said Alabama Port Authority Director and CEO John Driscoll. “This expansion not only signifies our confidence in the local economy but also reflects our ongoing efforts to meet the evolving needs of our customers while contributing to the growth of the communities we serve.”
Speaking for CSX, Maryclare Kenney, vice president of Intermodal & Auto, said, “CSX is proud to be part of the strategic collaboration with the Alabama Port Authority in establishing the North Alabama ICTF in Decatur. This project demonstrates our commitment to foster growth, connect markets and propel economic progress for the region.”
Decatur Mayor Tab Bowling also praised the plan, saying “The partnership between the Alabama Port Authority and CSX Transportation to establish this facility in Decatur not only acknowledges our accomplishments but also signifies a momentous stride in shaping the trajectory of Decatur’s economic impact statewide. The establishment of the North Alabama ICTF brings immense economic potential to Decatur and the entire North Alabama region, and I am thrilled to witness the realization of the North Alabama ICTF project in Decatur. This is a landmark achievement in bolstering our city’s economic vitality.”
The port, praised for its $100 billion statewide economic impact in a recent study and identified by Forbes as the second fastest growing port in the nation, has $1 billion in capital projects in progress including the inland intermodal facilities, deepening and widening the shipping channels serving the port, doubling container handling capabilities at the Mobile port, plus other major projects.
The rail-served inland facilities are expected to curtail truck traffic on Interstate 65 while bringing new transport options to Montgomery and Decatur.
