Working on the Railroad

Photo Album of our crews at work
Posted October 7, 2007

Modoc Northern Railroad has been actively engaged in upgrading the Lakeview branch to improve safety and service. Once completed, this rehabilitation of the line will benefit Lake County customers by reducing the time needed to move cars and products over the railroad.  We'd like to share some "before and after" photographs of this work in progress.

First, we'll take you back to some work that was done in April of 2006 to bolster a short stretch of track along the Pit River.  The nearby embankment had eroded near mile post 466, endangering the stability of the line. 

Embankment had eroded near the tracks

Working with specialized equipment, Modoc Northern crews brought in several trainloads of rock from Lakeview to fill the gap and shore up the right of way.  We worked with environmental consultants to ensure minimum impact to the Pit River.

Crew inspecting area before beginning restorative work

First train load of rock backing past Chimney Rock

Rock being dumped ahead of the breach

In 2007, Modoc Northern is continuing to rehabilitate the Lakeview branch, working to bring the line up to standards.

Before: Rail out of surface near MP 463.8

Equipment at work - it's a dirty job!

Making the first of four lifts

After the third pass, the line is looking better

Ready to install ties, more ballast, and one more surfacing pass to level things out.