During November, Appalachian Regional Port (ARP) reached a historic high of 3,876 containers, marking its busiest month since its opening. This figure represents a 35% increase over the same month last year and reflects the ARP’s growing prominence within the intermodal logistics network of the southeastern United States.
Appalachian Port improves its rail connection
The land terminallocated near Chatsworth, Georgia, has been a catalyst for efficient rail transportation to the Port of Savannah. With seven trains in and out daily, the direct connection to CSX is allowing companies to save logistics costs and reduce emissions by avoiding thousands of miles of road transportation.
The 48-hour rail service has strengthened fluidity in supply chains and generated competitive advantages for exporters and importers in the region, including companies in North Georgia and East Tennessee.
Economic and fiscal benefits for regional development
The ARP is located in Murray County, classified by the state of Georgia as a Tier 1 county, which allows access to tax credits of up to $4,000 for each new job generated. Since opening in 2018, the terminal has been a hub for attracting private investment and fostering manufacturing jobs, with more than 41,000 containers handled during fiscal year 2025.
In the first five months of FY2026 , more than 20,000 containers have already been processed, representing a year-on-year growth of 20%. This performance confirms the strategic role of the ARP in the economic expansion of northwest Georgia.
Expansion of the inland port network
The ARP model is being replicated with new facilities such as the Blue Ridge Connector. Blue Ridge Connectorcurrently under construction in Gainesville, which will operate with Norfolk Southern. Its opening, scheduled for spring 2026, will extend the reach of the rail network into the northeastern part of the state.
Also noteworthy is the connection to North Carolina via the Carolina Connector, which links Savannah to Rocky Mount via daily rail service. These initiatives reaffirm the Georgia Ports Authority’s commitment to providing more sustainable and competitive logistics solutions in the southeast region.
Source and photo: Georgia Ports