Allentown's Railroad Heritage
Railroads built the Lehigh Valley. In the nineteenth century, lines such as the Lehigh Valley Railroad and the Central Railroad of New Jersey carried anthracite coal, iron, and steel from the region to markets across the East Coast. Allentown's industrial growth was closely tied to these rail connections.
Today, passenger trains no longer stop in Allentown, but freight rail remains essential to the region's manufacturing and logistics economy. Regional and short-line railroads serve industrial customers, while scenic railways attract tourists. Here are ten railway operators connected to Allentown and the Lehigh Valley.
The Top 10 Railway Operators
1. Norfolk Southern
Norfolk Southern is the primary Class I freight railroad serving the Lehigh Valley. Its main lines carry intermodal containers, manufactured goods, and raw materials, connecting the region with ports and markets throughout the eastern United States.
2. R.J. Corman Railroad Company
R.J. Corman operates short-line rail service in the Allentown area, providing switching and local freight service to industrial customers. Short lines like this connect businesses to the national rail network.
3. Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad
The Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad is a regional railroad serving eastern Pennsylvania. It handles freight across a large network and operates popular passenger excursions, including the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.
4. East Penn Railroad
East Penn Railroad operates several short lines in eastern Pennsylvania, serving industrial customers with reliable local freight service and helping businesses reduce trucking costs.
5. Lehigh Valley Rail Management
Lehigh Valley Rail Management provides rail switching, transloading, and railcar services in the region. Transloading facilities allow shippers without direct rail access to move goods between trucks and railcars.
6. CSX Transportation
CSX operates a major freight network across the eastern United States. Lehigh Valley shippers access CSX service through interchanges and intermodal connections, expanding their reach to southern and midwestern markets.
7. Conrail Shared Assets Operations
Conrail Shared Assets Operations manages rail infrastructure in northern New Jersey and the Philadelphia area on behalf of Norfolk Southern and CSX. It plays a key role in moving freight between the Lehigh Valley and nearby ports.
8. Amtrak
Amtrak does not serve Allentown directly, but Lehigh Valley residents frequently use Amtrak from Philadelphia and Newark for travel along the Northeast Corridor. Connecting buses make it easy to reach these stations.
9. NJ Transit
NJ Transit's rail lines in western New Jersey provide commuter connections to Newark and New York City. Some Lehigh Valley commuters drive to stations near the Pennsylvania border to access this service.
10. SEPTA
SEPTA's Regional Rail network serves the Philadelphia area. Residents of the southern Lehigh Valley sometimes drive to outer stations to connect with SEPTA service into Philadelphia.
Freight Rail and the Lehigh Valley Economy
Freight rail is one of the most fuel-efficient ways to move goods over land. A single train can replace hundreds of trucks, reducing highway congestion and emissions. Manufacturers of heavy products, chemicals, food ingredients, and building materials rely heavily on rail. Intermodal service, which combines rail and truck, is increasingly important for distribution centers serving the Northeast.
The Push for Passenger Rail
Restoring passenger rail between the Lehigh Valley and New York City or Philadelphia has been discussed for years. Supporters argue it would reduce traffic on Interstate 78, attract new residents, and boost economic development. Federal infrastructure programs have revived interest in studying potential routes, and regional leaders continue to advocate for service.
Scenic and Heritage Railroads
Rail enthusiasts and families enjoy excursions such as the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe and heritage railroads in nearby counties. Seasonal rides, including fall foliage and holiday trains, are popular regional traditions.
Choosing a Rail Partner for Your Business
Businesses considering rail should evaluate rail-served sites, transloading options, transit times, and pricing compared with trucking. Short-line railroads and logistics consultants can help shippers understand how rail fits their supply chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there passenger train service in Allentown?
Allentown does not currently have regular passenger rail service. Residents typically drive or take a bus to stations in Philadelphia, New Jersey, or New York to access Amtrak, NJ Transit, and SEPTA services.
Can small businesses ship by rail?
Yes. Businesses without a rail siding can use transload facilities, where goods move between trucks and railcars. Short-line railroads and rail management companies help shippers evaluate whether rail is cost-effective for their products.
What products commonly move by rail in the Lehigh Valley?
Common rail commodities include building materials, chemicals, plastics, food ingredients, paper, and intermodal containers carrying consumer goods. Heavy and bulk products particularly benefit from rail's cost efficiency.
Where can I enjoy a scenic train ride near Allentown?
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe is the most popular nearby excursion, offering river views and special seasonal trips during fall foliage and the holidays.
Conclusion
Rail remains a vital part of Allentown's economy and heritage. From Class I freight carriers and short lines to scenic excursions and nearby passenger services, the railway operators listed here keep goods and people moving throughout the Lehigh Valley.