Why proposed Raleigh-to-Wilmington train will go through Goldsboro

Original plan indicated the train would travel through Fayetteville.

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) – A new feasibility study conducted by WGI Inc. of West Palm Beach further sets in motion a train connecting the Port City to the Capital.

The feasibility study projects an $810 million price tag for the passenger rail line and suggests the best route would take it through Goldsboro instead of Fayetteville.

The study shows it could save as much as $100 million dollars and one hour in ride time.

East Carolina Rail Vice President Gene Merritt says the new line would also bring passengers to towns along the route.

“We’re working as much for southeastern North Carolina as we are for Wilmington, and those small towns, a rail depot and rail service two or three times a day would be a great economic benefit for those communities,” he said.

A new passenger rail station would be built next to Padgett Station on 3rd Street, where the rail line used to be. The last time Wilmington had a passenger rail service was in 1968.