NCRR’s Hurricane Helene Relief: Gold Award for Rail Aid (NC, USA)

Introduction

The North Carolina Railroad Co. (NCRR) received the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award from the International Economic Development Council for its disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Helene, which impacted western North Carolina in late September 2024. NCRR’s Back-on-Track grant program was specifically recognized for providing financial aid to communities and rail-served businesses.

Award Recognition

The International Economic Development Council presented the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award to the North Carolina Railroad Co. (NCRR) in the recovery, resiliency, and mitigation category.

Back-on-Track Grant Program

NCRR’s Back-on-Track grant program was the focus of the award. This program has been instrumental in delivering financial aid to communities and rail-served businesses.

Hurricane Helene Impact

The grant program was initiated in response to Hurricane Helene, which struck western North Carolina in late September 2024.

Financial Aid Provided

To date, NCRR has allocated $8.2 million for disaster relief efforts through the Back-on-Track program.

Conclusion

The North Carolina Railroad Co. (NCRR) was awarded the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award by the International Economic Development Council for its Back-on-Track grant program. This program provided $8.2 million in financial aid to communities and businesses after Hurricane Helene.

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Company Summary

North Carolina Railroad Co. (NCRR): The North Carolina Railroad Co. (NCRR) received the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award for its Back-on-Track grant program.