ROANOKE, Va. — Norfolk Southern Corp. has awarded a $40,000 grant to the Virginia Museum of Transportation as part of its Thriving Communities Grant Program, according to a July 23 post on the Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 social media pages. This funding will support the museum’s Rail Heritage Initiatives: Education, Engagement, and Maintenance 2025.
A significant aspect of the initiatives is ensuring the continued maintenance, operation, and preservation of No. 611. The Class J 4-8-4 is set to return to service on the Buckingham Branch Railroad this fall, leading the Shenandoah Valley Limited excursions out of Goshen, Va., and through the picturesque namesake landscape [See “Norfolk & Western No. 611 to return…” News Wire, July 9, 2025].
VMT’s Rail Heritage Initiatives also extend beyond No. 611. They also include support to the museum’s rail-related programs such as the teen Rail Camp, where young enthusiasts have the opportunity to explore careers in railroading and engineering. The grant will help offset participation costs and enhance additional public programming.
Museum Executive Director Mendy Flynn expressed her gratitude for the support: “This generous support from Norfolk Southern allows us to preserve the legacy of our rail heritage while actively engaging the next generation through education and hands-on experiences.”
Norfolk Southern’s commitment through the Thriving Communities Grant Program underscores its dedication to community-centric initiatives that align with its broader goals of enhancing safety, sustainability, and community resilience across its extensive 22-state network. More information can be found on the railroad’s website.
A generous gesture… Bravo NS!
Dr. Güntürk Üstün