Norfolk Southern donates historic train depot to East Palestine community

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) unveiled plans to donate the company’s historic East Palestine Train Depot to the village May 22. Acknowledging the significance of this landmark, Norfolk Southern will restore and upgrade the exterior of the building. The interior will be turned into a blank space so the community may shape the future development of this property according to its own vision – Norfolk Southern will provide a $100,000 grant to support the village’s continued development of the space.

“Norfolk Southern understands the historical significance this train depot represents to the community,” said Norfolk Southern Director of Corporate Giving Kristin Wong. “As I’ve talked with those who live in East Palestine, I heard early on that they wanted to own and determine the future of this central building. Today, we’re partnering together to make that happen. We’re committed to making things right in East Palestine, and it is a privilege to donate this train depot to the community, and to watch what it will become next.”

The renovation of this historic landmark signifies a milestone toward the village’s goal to revitalize the area while preserving and paying homage to its rich heritage. Located in the heart of East Palestine, on Market Street near the downtown area, the train depot holds a central position within the community. The depot dates back to the 1890s, but has remained dormant over the course of several decades. Norfolk Southern's ownership of the train depot originated from the acquisition of the rail line that runs through East Palestine in 1998.

“East Palestine should be proud of their history with the railroad industry,” said Kristin Wong. “We are honored to donate this train depot to the community as a symbol of that history.”

Norfolk Southern plans to begin renovations in late August or early September and expects to complete renovations by Summer 2024.