Rail and Recycling: Partners in the circular economy

SA Recycling is expanding its rail spur at its flagship Georgia facility – growing capacity from 14 to up to 25 daily carloads and eliminating mainline switching conflicts. The upgrade is powered by a longstanding partnership with Norfolk Southern and supported by improved, reliable rail service.

Why it matters: This 24/7 operation located in Doraville, GA isn’t just crushing used cars. It’s fueling a circular economy and creating new opportunities for sustainable growth—powered by rail.

Inside the tour: Norfolk Southern leaders visited in early-April to see innovation in action—and discuss what’s next. Led by SA Recycling, the visit included Norfolk Southern’s President and CEO Mark George, COO John Orr, CCO Ed Elkins, and other senior leaders. Here’s a snapshot:

• The site is home to a 680-lb hammer shredder that can process 200 cars per hour.
• It’s the same facility that helped recycle steel from the Georgia Dome implosion in 2017.
• Materials that can be recycled include autos, appliances, bikes, demolition debris, and structural steel.

What they’re saying:

“It is great to see this ingenuity from heavy industry firsthand.” — John Orr, COO, Norfolk Southern

“We trust Norfolk Southern, and we’re proud of the longstanding partnership we have to serve this critical industry need.” — Bobby Triesch, Regional General Manager – Georgia Region, SA Recycling

Zoom out: With 20 facilities across Georgia, including a key site in Savannah near NS’s Dillard Yard, SA Recycling’s business continues to grow—and rail will be key.

The bottom line: As SA Recycling turns scrap metal into momentum that fuels our economy, we’re helping them scale smarter and greener.