The North Carolina Railroad, established in 1849, operates a state-owned rail corridor extending from Morehead City to Charlotte. It facilitates over seventy freight trains operated by Norfolk Southern Railway and eight daily passenger trains, including Amtrak's Carolinian and Piedmont. The company collaborates with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the North Carolina Department of Transportation on capital improvement projects to enhance rail infrastructure.
Key achievements of the North Carolina Railroad include significant investments in economic development, such as funding a new manufacturing facility in Siler City. The company has also introduced new flagging and safety services to ensure operational efficiency and safety. With its headquarters in Raleigh, the railroad plays a crucial role in the state's transportation network, contributing to both freight and passenger mobility.