March 16, 2026
Willoughby Site Earns Bronze Designation in CSX Select Site Program
The Willoughby Site in Marion, South Carolina has achieved a Bronze Designation in the CSX Select Site program. This recognition places the 219-acre property among a select group of rail-served sites that have demonstrated exceptional potential for industrial development. With its strategic location and ongoing infrastructure investment, the site stands positioned for long-term growth within the region.
A key advantage of the Willoughby Site is its proximity to major transportation infrastructure. The property is located only six miles from a CSX interchange, offering convenient access to rail transport for future industrial users. The site is also adjacent to Highway 76, 17 miles to the major Interstate I-95, and 90 miles to the Port of Wilmington. Additionally, it sits directly across from the Marion County Airport and is located 15 miles from the Inland Port Dillon, which provides further logistical benefits for companies seeking multimodal access.
Significant infrastructure improvements are currently underway, which will further enhance the site’s competitiveness. R. J. Corman is working in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Commerce and the Marion County Economic Development Commission to rehabilitate three miles of inactive rail line. Once complete, this project will serve the Willoughby Site and support additional properties in the surrounding area. These improvements signal a proactive approach to preparing the region for new economic opportunities.
The property offers 219 acres of contiguous space suitable for a range of industrial operations. This amount of available acreage provides flexibility for site layout and facility design. The scale of the site, combined with its transportation advantages, makes it an attractive location for advanced manufacturing, logistics, distribution, and other industrial users.
Essential utility services further strengthen the site's readiness. Electric, natural gas, water, sewer, and telecom services are already available, and all due diligence has been completed. This level of preparation reduces risk and accelerates the development timeline for companies evaluating the site.
Jake Weir, Sr. Director of Industrial Development at R. J. Corman, emphasized the significance of this achievement, "A site of this caliber doesn't just show up on the market overnight. It requires significant time, often years, and commitment from key stakeholders to get it to a position where it can be effectively marketed to potential rail users. This Bronze Select Site designation from CSX is an acknowledgment of all the work that has been put into this property by the entire team, and the value that short line partners, such as R. J. Corman, bring to the table for Class I railroads like CSX. We sincerely appreciate everyone who has played a role in this process and CSX's willingness to include this property in their Select Site Program this year. We're excited to see what the future holds for this incredible property as we continue our site preparation initiatives."
Thank you to CSX for recognizing the Willoughby Site’s readiness for industrial growth.
Read CSX's press release here.
