March 18th Workday

Despite sunny, but cool conditions, the monthly workday was a huge success with two key projects receiving significant work prior to the Spring Meet.

The first order of business, was the demolition and re-decking of what is called the bathroom curve bridge. Over the years, the deck boards had deteriorated causing issues on the mainline as well as pedestrian traffic. Additionally, during the Fall Meet last year, we learned the bridge had actually sunk down several inches due to water washouts.

Members spent the morning removing the old deck boards, raising the support joists, and re-painting all for steel infrastructure. The remainder of the day was spent completely re-decking the bridge. With this repair work complete, the bridge should last another 25-30 years and was the last bridge at the track that had not been recently rebuilt. The mainline will be reapplied in the next few weeks.

Finally, while one crew was working on the bridge, another crew spent the morning completing the Track 1 Station Loop replacement. This bypass track primarily used for steamers during passenger has now been completely rebuilt with plastic ties. Ballast will be reapplied during an upcoming work day.

Because of the dedication of our members who volunteer their time for projects like these, we are in great shape for the upcoming Spring Meet!