County Line Rail, a leader in railyard operations throughout the Gulf Coast, is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of the Sabine River and Northern Railroad, a 40-mile short line railroad in East Texas. This strategic acquisition strengthens CLR’s commitment to supporting regional businesses, expanding freight services, and enhancing local rail infrastructure.

SRN offers freight service from Bessmay to Echo, TX with a branch line from Buna to Evandale, TX. It connects to three major Class I railroads – Canadian Pacific Kansas City, Union Pacific, and Burlington Northern Santa Fe – providing seamless logistics solutions to shippers in the region.

“We are excited at the opportunity to expand our rail footprint in East Texas and provide support for the region’s continued economic growth,” said Ben Brosseau, Chief Executive Officer of CLR. “CLR will revitalize this underutilized asset and offer first-rate rail service on the triple-served short line. With our planned upgrades meeting Class II standards, the SRN will alleviate rail congestion around Beaumont and offer railcar services including storage, transloading, cleaning, and Class I access.”

Brent Hall, CEO of County Line Rail Operations and a FRA certified engineer and conductor, will oversee the day-to-day operations for SRN. A Houston native and one of the industry’s most skilled local railroad professionals, Brent has nearly 30 years of experience managing and operating railroads.

Infrastructure & Expansion Plans

As part of the acquisition, CLR has also secured:

  • A storage yard and loop track in Orange known as the Mulford Yard, strategically located near the U.S. Gypsum manufacturing facility formerly operated by International Paper.
  • 100 acres of developable land adjacent to SRN which will be made available for sale or lease to businesses seeking direct rail service.
  • A connection to CLR’s Buna storage yard, currently offering railcar storage, transloading and outdoor industrial storage.