A Bright Future with the Revitalization of the Henderson Overton Branch Rail Line

A Bold Move for Rusk County’s Future

The RCRRD and NET RMA’s announcement signals a decisive step forward in Rusk County’s long-term economic strategy. With an $8.48 million federal grant and matching funds from private partners, the project is expected to inject over $15 million into the county, ushering in a new era of economic growth and industrial development. For Tatum, this means new opportunities for job creation, infrastructure improvements, and a closer connection to the growing economic networks of East Texas.

As RCRRD president John Cloutier put it, "Rusk County is seizing its future by transforming an aging rail line into a vibrant economic artery." This investment will modernize the Henderson Overton Branch, a vital part of the regional transportation network that has long supported local businesses. The project’s enhancements are poised to impact Tatum significantly, strengthening its position as a key player in the broader Pineywoods industrial hub.

Key Project Highlights and What They Mean for Tatum

Tatum’s Place in the Regional Economic Landscape

Get Involved in Tatum's Economic Future!

The revitalization project includes several important improvements that will benefit Tatum directly:

• Rebuilding Transload Zones in Overton and Henderson
  Tatum is situated just a short distance from Overton, one of the cities that will see significant upgrades to its transload zones. These areas, where goods are transferred between rail and truck, are critical for local businesses and industries that rely on rail for the transportation of goods. Enhanced transload facilities will make it easier for businesses in Tatum to import and export materials, opening the door to more industrial activity and growth.

• Increasing Track Capacity
  Expanding track splits along the rail line will allow for more rail traffic, meaning faster and more efficient transportation of goods. For Tatum, this translates to a more connected and competitive business environment, as companies that rely on rail logistics can count on timely deliveries and better access to national and global markets.

• Modernizing Connections to Union Pacific’s Mainline
  One of the most important upgrades in this project is the modernization of the switch connecting the HOB rail line to the Union Pacific mainline. This connection, which has not been updated in over a century, is critical for enhancing the flow of goods from Tatum and surrounding communities. By making this vital connection more efficient, the entire region benefits from improved access to larger freight systems and more opportunities for trade.

Tatum has always been an integral part of the Pineywoods region, known for its tight-knit community, scenic landscapes, and rich history. But this new investment promises to position the town as a central player in East Texas’ industrial future. With the HOB rail line improvements, Tatum will be better connected to growing industries in Rusk County and beyond, making it an even more attractive location for investment.

As Glenn Green, executive director of NET RMA, stated, "By investing in this rail line, we are not just building infrastructure but we are also building a better future for Rusk County and the surrounding areas." This sentiment rings true for Tatum, where local leaders and residents can look forward to a stronger, more prosperous community driven by enhanced infrastructure and new economic opportunities.

The revitalization of the Henderson Overton Branch rail line is a game-changing opportunity for Tatum, Texas, and we want you to be a part of it! If you're a local business owner, community leader, or resident interested in learning more about how this project can benefit Tatum, now is the time to get involved.

Contact the Executive Director of the Tatum Economic Development Corporation, Nakia Smith, to discuss how you can take advantage of new opportunities, whether through business expansion, job creation, or community development.