The West Central Ohio Port Authority (WESTCO) was created by the Boards of County Commissioners of Champaign, Clark, and Fayette counties pursuant to Chapter 4582 of the Ohio Revised Code for the public purpose of preserving railroad assets and providing for the continued operation of rail freight services. The port authority is now in its 22nd year supporting industry and agri-business in the region.
 
WESTCO has a board of seven directors. The directors are appointed by agreement among the participating counties. The board is responsible for the governing of the port authority pursuant to the Ohio Revised Code and the board's adopted rules and regulations. The secretary/treasurer is the point of contact for the board.
 
WESTCO owns 94 miles of railroad track in Champaign, Clark, Fayette, Logan, and Madison counties. The Indiana & Ohio Railway Company (IORY) provides the freight service on the line. The IORY is a regional railroad based in Cincinnati, with both owned and leased track in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. The IORY is a unit of RailAmerica, Inc., a railroad holding company. See www.railamerica.com for more information.
 
The extensive interchange opportunities offered by the IORY provides for competitive freight rates and options in sourcing raw materials and shipping finished products. WESTCO, the IORY and area development officials work together to provide a wide range of support programs for businesses desiring rail freight services, either at your existing or planned facility or at a nearby rail-to-truck re-load location.