What's New

Cascade Scenic Railway Inc

What's New

Cascade Scenic Railway, Inc. 2010

News Update September 2010 To Our Faithful Supporters: We sincerely appreciate your patience with our project in partnership with Willamette Valley Railway (WVR) and the residents, families, businesses and organizations in the communities of Woodburn, Mt. Angel, Silverton, Howell Prairie, Macleay , Shaw, Aumsville, and Stayton. Our last informational update was nearly two years ago. Even though economic conditions have impeded progress on the WVR purchase of the line from Union Pacific, our commitment to CSR goals has not changed. Here are some accomplishments, developments and new strategies we wanted to share with you to keep you better informed and hope you continue to stand with us in our efforts to improve the economic diversification and livability of our communities: Economic Downturn Impacts Rail Freight Activity Rail shipments along the 32-mile short line between Woodburn and Stayton since the meltdowns of 2008 have fallen significantly. An average year for WVR used to range between 1600 to 2200 rail cars. 2009 was only 850 cars, and 2010 will likely be about the same. Previous spikes in fuel prices have helped stimulate rail freight, in the past, but those costs haven’t changed. The most direct factor for the drop off of shipments is the construction industry. WVR Completes Connect Oregon I; begins Connect Oregon III Grant Under the Connect Oregon I grant that WVR received and began work in 2007, over 30,000 ties were replaced along with some of the lightest rail in the line upgrade to achieve Class I. WVR recently received a $640,000 connect Oregon III grant and is providing $160,000 in matching funds to focus on bridge work in multiple locations along the line. Yet to be funded is about $200,000 in rail resurfacing. Class I status is required to permit passenger transport. WVR to Renew Lease In consideration of the significant investment that WVR has made in upgrading the line, WVR intends to renew its lease in 2012. Until a purchase of the line, including the track and fixtures and the land beneath it, Union Pacific will not permit passenger or excursion service. New Approach to be Explored for Line Purchase The biggest obstacle to agreeing to a reasonable purchase price has been the value assigned to the land beneath the tracks – of little value other than to support track and fixtures. Because UP has demonstrated community goodwill in the sale of other short lines, it has been agreed that we would ask them this question: If WVR were to purchase the track and fixtures/equipment, would they consider a donation of the land to a non-profit or public entity? This pursuit will take time to move through necessary channels, but stay tuned for an update after the end of the year. Woodburn to Seek an Amtrak Stop When we eventually provide passenger service on the line between Stayton and Woodburn, a direct stop by Amtrak passenger service would significantly enhance potential CSR riders. Even now, communities much smaller than Woodburn have Amtrak stops between Portland and Vancouver, BC. Stay tuned for a request for public support for this Amtrak stop once discussions have been formalized. Thanks again for your continued support of Cascade Scenic Railway, Inc.