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McKay Anticipates Scenic RR Reopening this Year, Despite Need for Crosstie Replacement

February 11th, 2021 by WCBC Radio

Although Allegany County officials have demanded a financial audit- and railroad ties between Cumberland and Frostburg need to be replaced- Delegate Mike McKay says he remains cautiously optimistic that there will be a 2021 season for the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.  McKay, who recently joined the WMSR board, is also part of a newly created executive financial committee to oversee fiscal matters related to train operations. Essentially closed during the Coronavirus pandemic- railroad officials have long viewed the debut of steam engine 1309,  Mountain Thunder,  as holding the key to a successful reboot and a spike in ridership. But to date- it is not yet ready to roll. With the operation having struggled for several years trying to obtain financial stability- Mckay, on WCBC’s “Dave Norman Show” Wednesday,  was asked if he has confidence in railroad superintendent John Garner to turn things around…

 

When asked if a July Fourth open is a realistic target, Mckay said while he is hopeful,  he isn’t making any commitments at this point…