CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Cass Scenic Railroad, Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad (West Virginia Central), and Potomac Eagle, have concluded another year of both scenic and freight operations, with total ridership numbers showing a slight dip in certain segments but a strong recovery in the fall months.
Year-End Ridership:
- Cass/Durbin/WV Central: 54,619 passengers
- Potomac Eagle: 41,021 passengers
- Rail Explorers: 15,932 riders
Although the summer months of July and August 2024 saw a decrease in ridership compared to the previous year, the fall season brought a resurgence of passengers, bringing the total ridership numbers for the year in line with those of 2024, according to Cindy Butler, Commissioner of the West Virginia Division of Multimodal Transportation Facilities. The division oversees ports, aeronautics, rail and public transit within the state.
Beyond its popular excursion services, the South Branch Valley Railroad, which operates the Potomac Eagle, continues to provide vital freight transportation for customers in Hardy and Grant counties. Similarly, the West Virginia Central Railroad supports local economies in Randolph County with its freight services to various businesses.
Rail Explorers had its inaugural year with The Buffalo Creek Cruise railbike tour which came with great success. Mary Joy Lu, Rail Explorers CEO worked with the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) and state tourism officials to open this in June of 2024. Its state-of-the-art railbikes are pedal-powered, have hydraulic disc brakes, and feature a custom-built electric motor – the REX Propulsion System. Riders can choose a Quad Railbike that holds up to four riders or a Tandem Railbike that holds up to two riders.
The new outdoor adventure has brought more than 15,932 visitors to the small town of Clay, making it a significant new tourism attraction for the region.
Visitors from all 50 states and 25 countries traveled to Clay to experience the scenic beauty and rich history of the Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad, a historic line that dates back to 1904.The 2024 season was a major success for both Rail Explorers and the local community.
“Between tourism and the freight service, the railroads under our ownership provide economic lifelines to many parts of West Virginia.” Butler said.
For more information, visit mountainrailwv.com.
