Ridgeville Mainline Replacement (January 2026)

This project involved the removal, clearing, grading, and complete replacement of the primary mainline at the Ridgeville station area. The original section consisted of an aging track bed with settled ballast. The goal was to replace this entire section with new track to improving reliability, ride quality, as well as drainage.

Phase 1: Demolition & Preparation (January 2, 2026)

The first day focused on removing the existing infrastructure and preparing the site for the new mainline.

Track Removal: The original track (far left) was decommissioned and removed to make way for a fresh grade.

Clearing and Earthmoving: Using a compact tractor equipped with a front-loader, the team cleared the intended path of old ballast and debris. Bulk materials were moved and the initial rough grade was established through the wooded section.

Manual Grading: Team members used shovels and rakes to fine-tune the dirt surface, ensuring a level and stable base for the track bed.

Surveying: As the sun began to set, survey stakes and string lines were installed to mark the precise location and elevation of the new track, ensuring a smooth transition between the existing line and the new construction.

Staging Materials: New pre-fabricated track panels, consisting of aluminum rail and plastic Accu-ties, were transported to the site and staged near the station platform.

Phase 2: Installation & Ballasting (January 3, 2026)

The new staged track panels were moved into position along the surveyed string lines. Crew members secured the rail joiners, while ensuring the line remained in line and on level.

Once the track was joined, a specialized work train was dispatched, with The “Ridge Lines” locomotive (#1992) provided the power for the ballast operation.

Both RLS ballast hopper cars were used. As seen in the videos, the hopper features a bottom-discharge gate that allows for controlled spreading of ballast directly onto the track bed while in motion.

The cars also are designed to specifically prevent ballast from being deposited onto the rails, using angle iron to guard the rails during discharge.

Following the ballast drop, a specialized gas-powered tamping machine was used to settle the track. This process “compacts” the stone under the ties, ensuring the track remains level and doesn’t shift.

Final Result & Testing

The “cab-view” footage shows a smooth ride over the newly installed section. The contrast with the “before” image is stark: the settled, dirt-mixed ballast has been replaced by a clean, raised, and mechanically tamped roadbed. The transition back onto the established line near the “End Slow Order” sign is seamless.