The Kansas City Southern Railway Co (KCS) celebrated the launch of its Jackson TransLoad Center (TLC) in Richland MS with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, luncheon, and tour for invited customers and public officials recently. The 55-acre TLC is at 187 Transload Drive, south of Jackson on Old Highway 49.
Located midway between Dallas TX and Atlanta GA and between Memphis TN and the Gulf of Mexico, the Jackson TLC extends the railroad's reach to non-rail-served shippers. TLC combines the power and cost effectiveness of rail with the flexibility of truck delivery and provides shippers with competitive transportation options. The Jackson TLC is owned by KCS and operated by Kinder Morgan Materials Services (KMMS).
Phases I and II of the Jackson TLC were completed in the past year and a half. Amenities include track capacity for 70 car spots, 15 acres of outside storage, pavement, lighting, a truck scale, convenient access to Interstates 20 and 55, and the ability to handle commodities ranging from bulk plastics and food products to clay, forest products, and steel.
In 2003, KCS projects the Jackson TLC will handle 1,500 cars. With the completion of Phases III, IV, and V, business levels are projected to increase to 3,000 cars handled annually by 2006. KMMS will ultimately employ 12 people directly and create an additional 15 to 25 truck-driving jobs.