Norfolk Southern has launched East Edge, a new double-stack intermodal rail service connecting Chicago to Ayer, Massachusetts, following completion of corridor clearance and infrastructure upgrades across New York and Massachusetts.
The project replaced a single-stack route with a double-stack-capable corridor designed to increase capacity and reduce transit times. The service spans multiple rail segments and required bridge, tunnel, track, and signal modifications to meet double-stack clearance standards.
Norfolk Southern invested approximately $64 million in the East Edge program, with additional support from a matching grant provided by the State of New York. The company coordinated delivery with CSX, Berkshire & Eastern Railroad, Providence & Worcester Railroad, state transportation agencies, and local partners.
Infrastructure work included restoration of the Voorheesville Running Track between Delanson and Voorheesville, New York, bridge height adjustments in Massachusetts, tunnel modifications in Worcester, rail and crosstie replacement, grade crossing renewals, culvert upgrades, and new signal and safety installations. A new crew-change facility is under construction in Voorheesville to support operations.
Norfolk Southern placed East Edge into service on January 13, 2026. The company expects the corridor to reduce transit times by up to 10 hours while freeing capacity on existing routes for automotive, bulk, and merchandise freight. The service supports higher-capacity freight movement into New England.