Does anyone have info on freight customers from 1965 into today...I knew Farmington ReadiMix and a lumber yard in Avon were customers until the abandonment. Someone told me Bozzuto's was a customer at one time. I saw a rail spur into the Pratt Whitney complex, so I guess they were. Who else? I would like to know all the way to Westfield. Thanks...
The biggest source of business anywhere on the Canal was in Holyoke. There was enough business there to warrant a yard engine and a through freight to Cedar Hill and both lasted right up until the end of the New Haven. Basically the only place today that has much is Holyoke as well although I think there might still be some business around Westfield too. The only other part of the line that is still active is a little bit right around Plainville but I don't know if there is any active business actually located on the Canal Line trackage in Plainville. The Canal Line was a nice ride and a good piece of railroad but financially it was a basket case for a long time, not enough revenue vs costs.
Noel Weaver