Albany and Eastern Railroad:
Bringing Efficiency to the Rail Industry
Albany & Eastern Railroad is committed to serving businesses and communities throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley. We provide reliable short line railroad services and work to create efficient transportation solutions for our customers.
About Albany & Eastern
Albany & Eastern Railroad (AERC), also known as the Albany-Lebanon Railroad, has a long history of serving the Willamette Valley. The railroad has supported the region’s transportation needs since 1880, with roots in the timber and agriculture industries. Since 2007, the current ownership has continued to improve the railroad system, infrastructure, and technology to meet modern transportation needs.
Efficiency
We help businesses move freight by rail through services designed to support efficient freight transportation, including freight hauling, switching, reload and transload, and railcar services.
Modernized Infrastructure
AERC continues to improve its railroad infrastructure and technology to support modern freight transportation. Our experienced team works to provide dependable railroad services for businesses throughout the region.
Approachable
Our team is available to help businesses understand their railroad transportation options. Contact Albany & Eastern Railroad to discuss your freight, railcar, switching, transload, or other transportation needs.
Our History
The Oregon and California Railroad began its history all the way back in 1880 with the Albany-Lebanon Railroad that connected communities throughout the Willamette Valley.
Once the railroad was completed, its ownership was transferred to the Oregon and California Railroad. The railroad transported logs, lumber, and agricultural goods throughout the Willamette Valley.
The railroad was first laid by the Oregon & California Railroad. The Southern Pacific Railroad then took over this company and expanded to branch lines in 1887. The SP would later expand the reach of this line with branch lines, even though much original hardware has been replaced over time.
As demand for lumber grew, the Southern Pacific began constructing a new branch line connecting Lebanon with Mill City. The line between Mill City and Albany was completed in 1910. Lumber and logs were transported from Mill City to the rest of the west.
The Oregon Electric Company constructed the Sweet Home branch line. It connected Foster and Sweet Home to the then SP Railroad. Since 2007, the owners have augmented and improved their system.
The Mill City Branch was rebuilt and renovated to larger rails to serve modern needs. Its construction was finished on time and under budget. Today, the AERC wants to improve safety while reducing travel times to move efficient freight, still serving communities throughout the Willamette Valley.
Santiam Excursion Trains
Ride our Newly Restored Steam Locomotive
The Santa Maria Valley 205 steam locomotive has arrived in Lebanon, and we are excited to bring her magic to our guests on the Santiam Excursion Trains!
This 1924 Baldwin Locomotive Works engine was meticulously restored to glory by local visionary George Lavacot and is now ready to bring a unique experience to our guests on the Santiam Excursion Train.
For the first time since the 1950’s, the iconic sound and feel of steam power will once again grace the line between Lebanon & Sweet Home, OR.
Contact Form
Contact us to learn more about how we can assist with your transportation needs.