WMSR and Paramount Plus – Mayor of Kingstown

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad recently served as a key filming location for Paramount+ hit television series Mayor of Kingstown, helping generate more than $1 million in economic activity for the Cumberland and Allegany County community while showcasing the region on a national stage. The successful production was the culmination of years of relationship-building, planning, and collaboration. For more than five years, WMSR leadership worked alongside Kelly Lynch of the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society and numerous local partners to position Cumberland as an attractive destination for a major film and television project.

While the production brought significant visibility to the community, railroad officials emphasize that the success of the project was made possible by the dedication and professionalism of WMSR employees, volunteers, and community partners. “The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad was the catalyst that brought this opportunity to Cumberland, but it was our people who made it a success,” said WMSR Executive Director Wesley Heinz. “Their creativity, commitment, and willingness to go above and beyond transformed an ambitious vision into a reality that benefited the entire region.” Throughout the production, WMSR staff worked tirelessly behind the scenes to coordinate
logistics, prepare facilities, reposition rail equipment, accommodate production schedules, and ensure that railroad operations and filming activities worked seamlessly together. Among those efforts, staff members coordinated with local organizations and institutions to
secure facilities needed by the production team. WMSR personnel worked closely with community partners, including the Canal Place Authority, Cumberland Times-News and the Allegany Museum, helping facilitate space and resources required for filming operations.

The project also highlighted the strength of partnerships throughout the community. Hotels, restaurants, retailers, nonprofits, government agencies, media organizations, and residents all played important roles in welcoming the production and supporting its success. “The railroad is the singular reason that Paramount came here, but because it is located within easy reach of Pittsburgh’s robust film industry, the railroad and the City of Cumberland together offer unique combination of authenticity, accessibility, and support for any film and television production,” explained Kelly Lynch. “Historic streetscapes, cultural attractions, restaurants, hotels, and filming locations are all conveniently located, creating an environment where productions can work efficiently while capturing a distinctive sense of place.” According to WMSR officials, the experience serves as a powerful example of how heritage tourism, historic preservation, and economic development can work together to create
meaningful opportunities for the region.

“This production demonstrated what is possible when talented people unite behind a common goal,” Heinz said. “The professionalism, pride, and sense of service displayed by our employees and volunteers reflected the very best of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad and the Cumberland community.”

As filming concludes, WMSR remains focused on its mission of preserving rail history, creating unique visitor experiences, and generating economic opportunities throughout Western Maryland. Railroad leadership hopes the success of the Mayor of Kingstown production will open the door to additional film, television, and special event opportunities in the future.