I was looking at an aerial image of downtown Roanoke and it looks like there is a big shop complex just east of I-581, not too far from the VA Mus. of Transp and the O.Winston Link Museum. Does anyone know if that shop is still active?
Also, it appears that there are several NS routes that run through the middle of Roanoke. Any idea which is most active (best chance of getting photos) ?
NS leases this shop to the former Johnstown America Corp, now known as Railcar America I beleive. They build coal hoppers there, much as the NS did before them and the N&W before that.
As to photos, you might try right next to the O. Winston Link Museum which is the former N&W Depot. It is just off the interstate behind the Hotel Roanoke (Doubletree). If you aim your camera correctly you should be able to capture trains moving through the large interlocking and part of the shops in the background. One caution. Do not attempt to enter the property as the area is heavily patrolled by railroad and local police.
LC
They are still doing some diesel repair at East End Shops.
…I think the activation of the Roanoke Shop for Railcar America has or is “killing” the Johnstown plant…Big layoff there this Spring and I haven’t heard of any encouraging words for any recalls…The Johnstown plant had several large contracts in recent times and the work load sounded good until the above happened.
It’s Freight Car America now. I believe Roanoke is one of two FCA plants that’s concentrating on production of coal cars (Bethgons and hoppers). The other one’s at Danville, Illinois.
You are correct. My apologies for getting the name wrong. Should’ve looked it up.
LC
…I haven’t heard of any official word of totally closing the Johnstown plant yet…at least not seen any announcement to that effect, but it sure looks like that’s in the works…Johnstown, until recently built hoppers too…I’ve seen them being pulled away and out of the valley on the S&C when we were back in our home area visiting. Going to Rockwood, Pa…to connect to the Sand Patch line of CSX…To where I have no idea.
Actually I believe that business started in Johnstown…when it was still Bethlehem Steel…{car works}…Hence, Bethgons.