PAGE 1 EXHIBIT 23 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors -------------------------------------------------- We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) of Allegheny and Western Railway Company of our report dated January 31, 1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of CSX Transportation, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 27, 1996, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP --------------------- Ernst & Young LLP Richmond, Virginia March 24, 1997 - I-1 -