By the way ... In the not-so-distant past, Gray experienced strong rail activity where several lines met, hence the name of the Star of Gray. At the present time, the rail freight activity is still significant thanks to the presence of large grain producers. Moreover, the old workshops of the steam traction period have been replaced by the modern workshops of the SOCORAIL company and are still today. Passenger traffic has disappeared and has been replaced by coaches.

In the past, Gray station has seen many trains run between Vesoul and Dijon. From the start of its operation, this transverse railway line forming part of the Dijon-Nancy axis was used as a double track, which means that at present the rights-of-way are preserved and can review the traffic of yesteryear like the Phoenix reborn from its ashes.

In many regions, the return of the train has enabled the redevelopment of economic activity. Our time is seeing the emergence of a major trend in research to reduce the carbon footprint left in particular by modes of transport.

In this logic, the use of rail transport is increasingly sought after by companies. Due to its flexibility, the service offer of Local Freight Operators has significantly improved and is in a competitive situation vis-à-vis road transport.

The current line from Villers les Pots to Gray is classified as VUTR (Single Lane with Restricted Traffic). The easy modification of traffic regulations would make it possible to review passenger trains on these axes which often hide significant and neglected potential. As a first step, the circulation of special tourist trains would rediscover the benefits of rail transport.