State-of-the-Art Terminal Begins Operations in Winter Haven
WINTER HAVEN, Fla., April 2, 2014 /3BL Media/ - Evansville Western Railway, an affiliate of CSX, today announced the start of operations at the state-of-the-art intermodal terminal located just off State Road 60. Known as the Central Florida Intermodal Logistics Center (ILC), this facility serves as a centralized hub for transportation, logistics and distribution serving Orlando, Tampa and South Florida.
The 318-acre intermodal terminal is surrounded by 930 acres that is planned for development of up to 7.9 million square feet of warehouse distribution centers, light industrial and office facilities. The terminal features five 3,000-foot loading tracks and two 10,000-foot arrival and departure tracks. It's estimated the terminal will process up to 300,000 containers a year.
"The Central Florida ILC will add yet another transportation and logistics capability in a state that's already known for excellent ports, great highways, and extensive railroad connectivity," said Clarence Gooden, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at CSX. "The terminal will provide an anchor for economic development in the region and position Florida for future growth while reducing congestion on the highways."
While Evansville Western Railway owns the facility, the terminal is operated by CSX Intermodal Terminals, Inc. with rail service provided by CSX Transportation (CSXT). Containerized freight previously handled at CSX's intermodal terminal in Orlando is immediately being shifted to Winter Haven. CSX will serve the region's intermodal market from the new Central Florida ILC and close its Orlando intermodal terminal. CSXT's Taft yard in Orlando will continue to serve other rail freight needs.
The terminal incorporates cutting-edge technology that is efficient, innovative and environmentally friendly. Several of its green technology initiatives include:
- three high-powered electric cranes that minimize noise and emissions;
- solar panels on each building which provide alternative and renewable energy sources;
- high mast exterior lighting using LED (light emitting diodes) to reduce energy consumption and light pollution;
- silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for its administration buildings.
"This is one of the most technologically advanced facilities of its kind in the country," said Tony Reck, Chairman and CEO of Evansville Western Railway. "The ripple effect of this terminal's operations will be felt statewide and beyond - ultimately setting the stage for future growth in the region. Without the tremendous support and visionary leadership of Winter Haven and state officials, none of this would have been possible."
About CSX
CSX, based in Jacksonville, Florida, is a premier transportation company. It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across a broad array of markets, including energy, industrial, construction, agricultural, and consumer products. For more than 185 years, CSX has played a critical role in the nation's economic expansion and industrial development. Its network connects every major metropolitan area in the eastern United States, where nearly two-thirds of the nation's population resides. It also links more than 240 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with major population centers and small farming towns alike. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).
Contact:
Kristin Seay
904-359-3442
