CSX doubles Cumberland Yard's switching capacity

CSX yesterday announced it has completed a "significant" upgrade to its Cumberland Yard in Maryland, doubling the terminal's switching capacity to improve freight handling and operational efficiency.

Launched in 2024, the project was designed to streamline operations by enhancing rail-car movement through the yard. A cross-functional team worked over a few months to remove the outdated hump lead and tower, replacing them with a new lead that boosts capacity, CSX officials said in a press release.

“This is the largest Apex switching system we’ve ever installed at CSX,” said Blair Johnson, assistant superintendent at Cumberland Yard. “The technology reduces hazards and creates a safer working environment for our employees.”

The improvements are expected to enhance freight flow for customers by reducing car handlings, optimizing traffic routing and expediting delivery times.

Cumberland Yard’s upgrade is part of a broader initiative, with additional yard enhancement projects underway at CSX facilities in Avon, Indiana; Montgomery, Alabama; Hamlet, North Carolina; and Walbridge, Ohio.