September 2nd, 2019 by WCBC Radio
WCBC News is continuing its series today with Western Maryland Scenic Railroad General Manager John Garner concerning the recently released operational audit. The audit pointed out poor track conditions, obscured views, and the delayed return of a steam locomotive, limited engine backup options, financial limitations and problems with the overall rider experience- and concluded that if some issues aren’t address the tourist train could be headed for closure. Much of the focus of the report has been the failure to get steam engine 1309 fully restored and operational. Garner points out that the renovation project was inherited by the current management team- and that the main reason for the delay is largely because of the contractor….
Garner remains upbeat- saying that he has no doubt the tourist train can succeed- with or without steam…
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September 02, 2019 at 11:14 am, kevin said:
Just keep pouring tax dollars into it, that’s all it needs, way more money. We can cancel 12th grade and use the savings for the railroad – a scenic line with no sight lines and a train that won’t fit the tracks even if it could run. What could possible go wrong? Imagine if the money had been spent to lure companies that make things or even make a profit or in aid to education or local housing? No, we went with door number “STUPID” and pick a railroad that can’t keep a working train or maintain its tracks. Another brilliant choice. Let’s go tear down another neighborhood and make it an weed field – we can always use another. Maybe we can sell the Water system to fund it! We’re on a roll.
September 02, 2019 at 11:41 am, mac said:
This is not the first time he’s tried to fob off the problems to the previous management and now he has thrown in the contractor for added effect.
Next he mentions that the train can succeed without steam. Without a steam locomotive it’s just a train. Ticket prices approach $85 for an adult, so it’s two for $170.
If you want to take a ride in a diesel train you can take an actual trip for not much more money and even end up somewhere other than Cumberland.
For example; 2 adults can leave Cumberland and ride to Newport News, Va. for $256, or $128 per person.
Guess which one I’d rather do.
September 02, 2019 at 2:21 pm, Ed Dodrill said:
The whole situation seems mishandled. No time for “lessons learned.” This is not a toy railroad.