Chase Gunnoe

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — CSX Transportation is closing its locomotive shops in Russell, Ky., and reducing its locomotive heavy repair operations in Waycross, Ga., the railroad announced today. Combined, the shop closures affect 154 jobs.



A railroad spokesman tells Trains News Wire that the decision to close the Russell locomotive shop was made after a thorough review of operations. The railroad says the volume of work performed at Russell has declined substantially in the last three years. The closure will affect 113 positions, and those impacted were sent home after Friday’s announcement.



In Waycross, the railroad is reducing its locomotive heavy repair operations due to reduced demand for locomotives across the railroad’s network. With fewer locomotives in operation, the railroad says there is less work for the employees at the back shop. A total of 41 jobs will be affected in Waycross.



Furloughed union workers at both facilities will be covered by the terms of their union agreements and will receive at least 60 days of regular pay and benefits.



Regular yard operations and other terminal services will remain in operation at Russell and Waycross. No other shop facilities are affected by Friday's announcement.





