Railroads Benefiting East Texas

EAST TEXAS- Railroads have always been an important part of East Texas, from carrying freight to helping passengers travel.

And now, the railroads are helping ease traffic congestion and helping the environment at the same time.

One railcar can carry up to three to five truck loads and a train can move a ton of freight over 800 miles, on one tank of fuel.

John Hedrick, the Director of Transportation for the East Texas Council of Governments says, railroads can also help in other areas.

Hendrick says, "More use of rail can eliminate need for expansion of highways and help utilize capacity lower maintenance improve air quality and all those things."

East Texas rails are connected to major ports all over the country, from the East Coast to the West, making east texas a prime location for businesses to relocate.

Many cities around the area are looking into developing rail spurs to attract even more business.