London-based infrastructure investment firm Ancala has partnered with Arkadia Rail Partners to form Phoenix Rail, a new short line rail platform in the United States.
Phoenix Rail is led by an experienced management team, including CEO Alex Yeros, COO Ross Grantham, CFO Jack Sullan, and Chief Strategy Officer Jim Crawford. The leadership has prior experience in short line rail operations, having been involved in the management of networks such as Pioneer Lines and OmniTRAX.
LVRM’s network consists of 61 miles of freight rail lines and an intermodal terminal, providing connections to Class I railroads Norfolk Southern, CSX, and CPKC. The network serves key areas in Pennsylvania, including operations in Bethlehem and Johnstown, with access to major metropolitan regions such as New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.
Short line railroads continue to play a role in freight transportation across the U.S., linking shippers to the national rail network. The intermodal segment has seen volume growth, with reports from the Association of American Railroads indicating an increase of 9.1% in intermodal traffic through November 2024 compared to the previous year.
Ancala’s investment in Phoenix Rail follows its earlier acquisition of Noventa Energy in North America. The firm has experience in transport and logistics investments, including stakes in rail freight operators and airport infrastructure. With Phoenix Rail, the partnership aims to expand its presence in the U.S. rail sector through further acquisitions and infrastructure investments.
Arkadia Rail Partners, formerly known as Brookhaven Rail Partners, has previously been involved in acquisitions and management of short line rail operations. The firm’s past projects include the transformation of Pioneer Lines, a short line holding company with 15 railroads, before its sale in 2022.
