Tarantula Corporation, the railroad holding company that owns Fort Worth & Western Railroad, has acquired Texas Central Railroad from Birdsong Corporation.
Fort Worth & Western Railroad Company (FWWR) has leased and operated Texas Central Railroad since December 1998 and the acquisition will bring significant operational benefits, Tarantula said in a news release.
“This acquisition enables FWWR to make substantial investments in the railroad’s maintenance and infrastructure, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and service capabilities for existing customers,” the release said. “The improved system infrastructure will also support the development of numerous rail-served and developable sites along the rail line, offering significant opportunities for future customers. Ownership allows FWWR to undertake previously unfeasible upgrades, providing long-term benefits for both FWWR and its partners.”
The transaction was made possible by the dedicated efforts of Director of Contracts Bill Wood, Legal Counsel Robert Ginsburg, and the work done by Kevin Sheys of Rail Regulatory Law in securing STB approvals, the release said. The purchase was finalized on June 30, culminating more than two years of strategic planning and negotiations.
“We would like to thank the Birdsong Corporation for its support and responsiveness throughout the negotiation,” said Kevin Erasmus, President & CEO of Davoil Inc. and Fort Worth & Western Railroad Company. “FWWR is excited about the expansion and improvement opportunities this acquisition offers. Acquiring the Texas Central Railroad supports the region’s long-term growth and business development while aligning with FWWR’s vision for the future.”
About Texas Central Railroad
The Texas Central Railroad, founded in 1879, played a crucial role in connecting key communities in West Central Texas. The railroad became a vital component of local economies, leading to the founding of towns such as De Leon in April 1881, and quickly became a major shipping route for agricultural products such as cotton and peanuts. The railroad spans over 26 miles, providing an essential link to the FWWR main line in the city of Dublin. Texas Central Railroad connects FWWR to the three counties it crosses, serving the towns of Dublin, De Leon, and Gorman.
