The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Rail Division announced today that NC By Train, the state’s passenger rail service, will run a special train from Raleigh to Rockingham Speedway for NASCAR’s return in April.
“After receiving positive feedback from last year’s event-day train service, we’re excited to bring this unique travel experience back,” said NCDOT Rail Division Director Jason Orthner said in a press release. “We also want to thank our partners CSX, Amtrak and Track Enterprises for their support in providing this opportunity to get race fans to The Rock. This stop, along with the other special stops NC By Train offers year‑round, helps people bypass potential parking and traffic delays so they can enjoy a comfortable trip to major events like this one across the state.”
The “Rockingham Special” train will run for one day only on April 4 between Raleigh Union Station and the Rockingham Speedway.
“Amtrak is pleased to once again partner with NC By Train to support safe, convenient travel for fans heading to Rockingham,” said Amtrak Vice President of Planning & State Partnerships Nicole Bucich. “We’re proud to help make major events more accessible, and we value the strong collaboration that allows us to offer a comfortable, welcoming experience for passengers across North Carolina.”
The morning train will depart Raleigh Union Station at 7:50 a.m. with stops in Cary at 8:05 a.m. and Southern Pines at 9:18 a.m. The train will arrive at Rockingham Speedway just before 10:00 a.m. and let passengers off adjacent to the speedway near Gate E. The evening train will depart from Rockingham Speedway at 6:35 p.m. with stops in Southern Pines at 7:16 p.m. and Cary at 8:29 p.m. The Rockingham Special will return to Raleigh Union Station a little after 8:40 p.m.
“We continue to be grateful to our partners at the N.C. Department of Transportation’s Rail Division, Amtrak and CSX for providing a turnkey travel experience for NASCAR fans to commute from the Raleigh area to Rockingham Speedway,” said Bob Sargent, president, track enterprises, the official NASCAR event promoter at Rockingham Speedway. “We’re fortunate to have NC By Train passenger rail tracks adjacent to the speedway and if year two proves to be half the success of last year’s partnership, we’re in for another big win. This is a one-of-a-kind travel solution and helps take some of the guess work and effort out of the planning for our fans. Our message to race fans in the Triangle is simple – hop on the train. All aboard!”
“Rockingham Special” train tickets are $25 each way and available for purchase now on Amtrak’s website. Tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis and seating is limited. Tickets must be bought in advance of travel. When purchasing your ticket(s) online, type or select “Rockingham” for your destination and return trip. Food and beverages will be available to purchase on board. Visit Amtrak.com for ticket prices and more information.
NCDOT encourages people to skip the hassles of traffic and parking and take advantage of the convenient, safe, and affordable transportation available on NC By Train with its large seats, charging outlets at each seat, and free WiFi.
Visit NC By Train for more information and to plan a trip.
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Contributed article, photo.
