🚨 Storm Damage Cleanup Update – We Need Your Help! 🚨
After further assessment of the railroad following the recent storms, we've discovered the damage is even more extensive than originally thought.
Multiple trees ranging from 12 inches to more than 40 inches in diameter have fallen across the railroad. Several sections of track remain completely blocked, and some of the largest trees will require significant effort and equipment to remove safely.
As crews have begun evaluating the affected areas, we've also found substantial damage to the mainline through the woods. Once the fallen trees are cleared, significant track repairs will be required before trains can safely operate on this portion of the railroad again.
The reality is that this cleanup effort is much larger than a typical workday project. Until the debris is removed and repairs are completed, progress on other railroad improvements will be delayed, and portions of the railroad will remain out of service.
After further assessment of the railroad following the recent storms, we've discovered the damage is even more extensive than originally thought.
Multiple trees ranging from 12 inches to more than 40 inches in diameter have fallen across the railroad. Several sections of track remain completely blocked, and some of the largest trees will require significant effort and equipment to remove safely.
As crews have begun evaluating the affected areas, we've also found substantial damage to the mainline through the woods. Once the fallen trees are cleared, significant track repairs will be required before trains can safely operate on this portion of the railroad again.
The reality is that this cleanup effort is much greater than a typical workday project. Until the debris is removed and repairs are completed, progress on other railroad improvements will be delayed, and portions of the railroad will remain out of service.
We urgently need volunteers to assist with:
✅ Cutting and removing fallen trees
✅ Hauling branches, logs, and storm debris
✅ Cutting grass and clearing overgrown areas
✅ Brush removal along the right-of-way
✅ Mainline track repairs once access is restored
✅ General grounds and maintenance work
Whether you can bring a chainsaw, tractor, trailer, track tools, or simply a willingness to help, your time is needed. Many hands will make a tremendous difference in how quickly we can recover from this storm damage.
The railroad has always been built and maintained by volunteers. Right now, we need that volunteer spirit more than ever. If every member and friend of the railroad can contribute even a few hours, we can get the railroad reopened and back on track much sooner.
📅 Please make plans to attend the next workday if at all possible.
Can't make the scheduled workday? Consider organizing a small crew during the week and contacting us to coordinate a cleanup effort. There is more than enough work for multiple teams.
The sooner we can clear the trees and repair the damaged mainline, the sooner we can return our focus to operating trains and completing the many exciting projects planned for the railroad.
Thank you to everyone who has already stepped up to help. Now we need more volunteers to join the effort and help us tackle this challenge.
We Need Your Help at the Railroad
Recent storms have left us with a major cleanup challenge at the railroad. Several large trees and countless branches have come down across our tracks, sidings, and operating areas. As you can see from the photos, some sections of the railroad are completely blocked and will require significant effort to clear before we can continue improving and operating the railroad safely.
In addition to removing fallen trees and brush, we also need volunteers to help with:
✅ Cutting grass and trimming weeds throughout the property
✅ Clearing brush along the right-of-way
✅ Hauling limbs and debris to burn or disposal piles
✅ General track and grounds maintenance
Whether you can run a chainsaw, operate a tractor, swing a rake, or simply help move branches, there is a job for everyone. Even a few hours of your time can make a huge difference.
The railroad is built and maintained entirely by volunteers, and projects like this remind us how important our members and friends are. The more hands we have, the faster we can get the railroad back into shape and continue working on all of the exciting improvements planned for this year.
📅 If you can help during our next workday, please come out and join us. If you're unable to attend the scheduled workday but have time during the week, consider organizing a small crew and contacting us to arrange a cleanup session.
Together, we can get the railroad cleared, the grass cut, and keep the trains running!
Recent storms have left us with a major cleanup challenge at the railroad. Several large trees and countless branches have come down across our tracks, sidings, and operating areas. As you can see from the photos, some sections of the railroad are completely blocked and will require significant effort to clear before we can continue improving and operating the railroad safely.
In addition to removing fallen trees and brush, we also need volunteers to help with:
✅ Cutting grass and trimming weeds throughout the property
✅ Clearing brush along the right-of-way
✅ Hauling limbs and debris to burn or disposal piles
✅ General track and grounds maintenance
Whether you can run a chainsaw, operate a tractor, swing a rake, or simply help move branches, there is a job for everyone. Even a few hours of your time can make a huge difference.
The railroad is built and maintained entirely by volunteers, and projects like this remind us how important our members and friends are. The more hands we have, the faster we can get the railroad back into shape and continue working on all of the exciting improvements planned for this year.
📅 If you can help during our next workday, please come out and join us. If you're unable to attend the scheduled workday but have time during the week, consider organizing a small crew and contacting us to arrange a cleanup session.
Together, we can get the railroad cleared, the grass cut, and keep the trains running!
🚂 Clubhouse Workday Planned 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, June 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, June 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
🚂 Clubhouse Workday Planned 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, June 13th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers. We will also have our June club meeting at 1 p.m.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, June 13th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers. We will also have our club meeting at 1 p.m.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
🚂 Clubhouse Workday Planned 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, June 13th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers. We will also have our June club meeting at 1 p.m.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, June 13th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers. We will also have our club meeting at 1 p.m.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
🚂 Clubhouse Workday Planned 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, May 30th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, May 30th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
Clubhouse Workday Planned
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in!
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, May 30th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
As you know this is a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
🚂 Clubhouse Workday Planned 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, May 30th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, May 30th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
🚂 BIG NEWS, NGLS CREW! 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, May 16th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in! On Saturday, May 16th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. we will be at the site working on the containers.
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
Help prepare the Railroad for operation on Saturday, May 2nd at 8:30 a.m.
It’s time to fire up the tools and the fun! Join us for our North Georgia Live Steamers Workday on Saturday, May 2nd, starting bright and early at 8:30 a.m. This special workday is all about getting the railroad ready for our second public run day of the season on Saturday, May 9th!
Workdays are a great way to pitch in, make progress on exciting projects, and spend time with fellow railroad enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just want to help where you can, there’s something for everyone — and every task helps make opening day a success!
What to bring:
🔧 Cordless tools
🦵 Knee pads
🥪 Lunch
💧 Plenty to drink
😂 A great sense of humor
Come ready to work, laugh, and help us get the railroad in tip-top shape for opening day. We look forward to seeing everyone trackside!
It’s time to fire up the tools and the fun! Join us for our Workday on Saturday, May 2nd, starting bright and early at 8:30 a.m. This special workday is all about getting the railroad ready for our second public run day of the season on Saturday, May 9th!
Workdays are a great way to pitch in, make progress on exciting projects, and spend time with fellow railroad enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just want to help where you can, there’s something for everyone — and every task helps make opening day a success!
What to bring:
🔧 Cordless tools
🦵 Knee pads
🥪 Lunch
💧 Plenty to drink
😂 A great sense of humor
Come ready to work, laugh, and help us get the railroad in tip-top shape for opening day. We look forward to seeing everyone trackside!
Help prepare the Railroad for operation on Saturday, March 21st at 8:30 a.m.
It’s time to fire up the tools and the fun! Join us for our North Georgia Live Steamers Workday on Saturday, March 21, starting bright and early at 8:30 a.m. This special workday is all about getting the railroad ready for our first public run day of the season on Saturday, March 28!
Workdays are a great way to pitch in, make progress on exciting projects, and spend time with fellow railroad enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just want to help where you can, there’s something for everyone — and every task helps make opening day a success!
What to bring:
🔧 Cordless tools
🦵 Knee pads
🥪 Lunch
💧 Plenty to drink
😂 A great sense of humor
Come ready to work, laugh, and help us get the railroad in tip-top shape for opening day. We look forward to seeing everyone trackside!
It’s time to fire up the tools and the fun! Join us for our North Georgia Live Steamers Workday on Saturday, March 21, starting bright and early at 8:30 a.m. This special workday is all about getting the railroad ready for our first public run day of the season on Saturday, March 28!
Workdays are a great way to pitch in, make progress on exciting projects, and spend time with fellow railroad enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just want to help where you can, there’s something for everyone — and every task helps make opening day a success!
What to bring:
🔧 Cordless tools
🦵 Knee pads
🥪 Lunch
💧 Plenty to drink
😂 A great sense of humor
Come ready to work, laugh, and help us get the railroad in tip-top shape for opening day. We look forward to seeing everyone trackside!
All Aboard for Our Next Ruten Tuten Workday!
Join us Saturday, March 7 (weather permitting) for another action-packed Ruten Tuten Workday! These workdays happen every other weekend and are a great way to roll up your sleeves, support ongoing projects, and enjoy a fun-filled day at the railroad.
Whether you’re ready to lend a hand or just want to stop by and cheer on the crew, we’d love to see you there! Bring along your cordless tools, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and your best sense of humor — teamwork and laughs are always part of the job.
Before heading out, be sure to check back for any schedule updates in case of weather or project changes.
Let’s make it another productive, rewarding, and downright fun day at the railroad. See you on the rails! 🚆
Join us Saturday, March 7 (weather permitting) for another action-packed Ruten Tuten Workday! These workdays happen every other weekend and are a great way to roll up your sleeves, support ongoing projects, and enjoy a fun-filled day at the railroad.
Whether you’re ready to lend a hand or just want to stop by and cheer on the crew, we’d love to see you there! Bring along your cordless tools, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and your best sense of humor — teamwork and laughs are always part of the job.
Before heading out, be sure to check back for any schedule updates in case of weather or project changes.
Let’s make it another productive, rewarding, and downright fun day at the railroad. See you on the rails! 🚆
Ruten Tuten Workday This Saturday
Join us Saturday, February 21 for another action-packed Ruten Tuten Workday! These workdays happen every other weekend and are a great way to roll up your sleeves, support ongoing projects, and enjoy a fun-filled day at the railroad. The morning has a few sprinkles in the forecast, but that won’t stop Tuten from making progress on a number of projects.
Whether you’re ready to lend a hand or just want to stop by and cheer on the crew, we’d love to see you there! Bring along your cordless tools, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and your best sense of humor — teamwork and laughs are always part of the job.
Before heading out, be sure to check back for any schedule updates in case of weather or project changes.
Let’s make it another productive, rewarding, and downright fun day at the railroad. See you on the rails! 🚆
Join us Saturday, February 21 for another action-packed Ruten Tuten Workday! These workdays happen every other weekend and are a great way to roll up your sleeves, support ongoing projects, and enjoy a fun-filled day at the railroad. The morning has a few sprinkles in the forecast, but that won’t stop Tuten from making progress on a number of projects.
Whether you’re ready to lend a hand or just want to stop by and cheer on the crew, we’d love to see you there! Bring along your cordless tools, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and your best sense of humor — teamwork and laughs are always part of the job.
Before heading out, be sure to check back for any schedule updates in case of weather or project changes.
Let’s make it another productive, rewarding, and downright fun day at the railroad. See you on the rails! 🚆
All Aboard for Our Next Ruten Tuten Workday!
Join us Saturday, February 21 (weather permitting) for another action-packed Ruten Tuten Workday! These workdays happen every other weekend and are a great way to roll up your sleeves, support ongoing projects, and enjoy a fun-filled day at the railroad.
Whether you’re ready to lend a hand or just want to stop by and cheer on the crew, we’d love to see you there! Bring along your cordless tools, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and your best sense of humor — teamwork and laughs are always part of the job.
Before heading out, be sure to check back for any schedule updates in case of weather or project changes.
Let’s make it another productive, rewarding, and downright fun day at the railroad. See you on the rails! 🚆
Join us Saturday, February 21 (weather permitting) for another action-packed Ruten Tuten Workday! These workdays happen every other weekend and are a great way to roll up your sleeves, support ongoing projects, and enjoy a fun-filled day at the railroad.
Whether you’re ready to lend a hand or just want to stop by and cheer on the crew, we’d love to see you there! Bring along your cordless tools, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and your best sense of humor — teamwork and laughs are always part of the job.
Before heading out, be sure to check back for any schedule updates in case of weather or project changes.
Let’s make it another productive, rewarding, and downright fun day at the railroad. See you on the rails! 🚆
🌲 A Huge Thanks — and a Call for Helping Hands!
A big shout-out to Wes for tackling a long-standing project: pruning that pesky pine tree near the Breezeway! The area already looks cleaner and safer — no more constant shower of pine needles and falling branches. Thanks, Wes, for stepping up and getting it done!
Speaking of big jobs, Wes and the crew are asking for a little extra help this Thursday, November 13th at 12:45 p.m. We’ll be rotating Shop Container #2 and pouring a small footer between Containers #1 and #2.
We have access to some heavy equipment for a short window, so timing is critical — the more hands we have, the smoother (and faster) everything will go.
If you can lend a hand, come on out! Every bit of help makes a difference and keeps the momentum going strong.
A big shout-out to Wes for tackling a long-standing project: pruning that pesky pine tree near the Breezeway! The area already looks cleaner and safer — no more constant shower of pine needles and falling branches. Thanks, Wes, for stepping up and getting it done!
Speaking of big jobs, Wes and the crew are asking for a little extra help this Thursday, November 13th at 12:45 p.m. We’ll be rotating Shop Container #2 and pouring a small footer between Containers #1 and #2.
We have access to some heavy equipment for a short window, so timing is critical — the more hands we have, the smoother (and faster) everything will go.
If you can lend a hand, come on out! Every bit of help makes a difference and keeps the momentum going strong.
September Kicks Off a Busy Season at the Railroad
It’s hard to believe we’re already in September! This time of year always brings an extra level of excitement to our railroad and our hobby. Fall is when things really ramp up—our Fall Meet, Public Run Days, and several important projects are all on the calendar.
We’re looking forward to seeing everyone at one (or many!) of our upcoming events. To make it all possible, we’ve scheduled a few work days to get the railroad in top shape and to finish up some ongoing projects.
It’s hard to believe we’re already in September! This time of year always brings an extra level of excitement to our railroad and our hobby. Fall is when things really ramp up—our Fall Meet, Public Run Days, and several important projects are all on the calendar.
We’re looking forward to seeing everyone at one (or many!) of our upcoming events. To make it all possible, we’ve scheduled a few work days to get the railroad in top shape and to finish up some ongoing projects. Here’s what’s happening over the next few weeks:
Annual Boiler Inspection - The annual inspection takes place on Saturday, September 13th.
Clubhouse & Workshop Project - The roadbed for the shop track coming off the mainline needs some work, along with putting in a cinderblock wall, which has already been started. We will have a bobcat onsite to help bring in any additional material, but a lot of the dirt and roadbed work is in place, just needs to be finished before we install track panels. A right-hand switch needs to be built along with a few panels and a track receiver that will be mounted to the cinderblock wall. The plan is to work on this on Saturday, September 20th.
East Loop Drain Repair - The major repair of the east loop drain is in place, but needs some finishing work and clean up around the area to complete this project now that the concrete has had time to set and see how the runoff water is flowing through the new drains. The plan is to work on this on Saturday, September 20th.
Track Maintenance & More- We need to go around the railroad and make sure the track is in good running order for our run day, and make any necessary repairs. For those who have not been to the railroad in a few months, the “Grandma Line” is officially open and will be used during our next run day, so make sure you check it out. Work on the track is planned for both Saturday, September 20th, and Saturday, September 27th.
Storage Siding with Recharging Hook Up Track - We need to lay between 4 and 5 track panels using used rail to complete this project. This will be helpful for any of our Fall Meet visitors who need a place to plug in and recharge any element of their train. We will need some track panels built or rebuilt and installed. Work on this is planned for both Saturday, September 20th, and Saturday, September 27th.
Don’t forget that our Fall Meet is also just around the corner. In less than 40 days, the Fall meet will take place, so don’t forget to invite everyone you know in the hobby to come out and enjoy the railroad with us. The dates for this year’s meet are Thursday, October 16th through Sunday, October 19th.
East Loop Drain Repair – A Permanent Fix in the Works
Work has begun to repair the East Loop drain. This past Saturday, Wes, Ken, “Bob’s” distant cousin, and the team brought in the big guns to repair the east loop drain once and for all. The goal is to have the drain repaired before the Club Fun Hot Summer Nights event on Saturday, August 23rd.
This past Saturday, the crew dug out the path for the culverts to be installed, with forms going in on Sunday and concrete being poured on Tuesday, August 19th. The goal is to have the track panels back in place by Friday. For that to happen, Wes, Ken, and the crew are asking for help from anyone available. Please reach out to Wes to let him know when you are available so he can align it with planned work.
Well, it’s happened again — the drain in the East Loop has failed, which means the railroad can’t be used until a major repair is completed. This is the third time we’ve dealt with this issue, but the good news is that we now have enough experience to solve the problem once and for all.
Ken and Wes have developed a solid repair plan, and over the next couple of weeks, they’ll be working hard to get everything in place. They’ll also be looking for extra hands to help, so if you can lend time or equipment, your support will be greatly appreciated.
Here is a little bit of information regarding the plan.
Pipe Installation
The existing galvanized steel spiral pipe will be moved forward.
We will use some of the black corgated pipe we already have to add more ways for water to flow out of the east loop into the lower level.
Install a concrete head wall to secure the pipe. All concrete work will be reinforced with rebar for long-term durability
A scour pad with a turndown to prevent undercutting and erosion
Side walls will direct and contain water flow
Materials Needed
Concrete – Currently scheduled for the morning of Tuesday, August 19th
One load of crusher run
Labor, diesel, forming materials, and equipment – Already donated (thank you!).
Project Schedule (Weather-Dependent)
Friday, August 15th – Tracked loader into dig, grade, and move spoil for the new roadbed.
Saturday, August 16th – Grade and form, set pipe, backfill, and move soils/stone for the roadbed.
Tuesday, August 19th – Pour concrete, pull forms, backfill, and prep roadbed for track installation.
If you can help, please reach out to Wes for more details on when and how you can be of help.
Club Meeting Time Change to 10 a.m. for Saturday, August 2nd
Our next club meeting will be this Saturday, August 2nd at 10 a.m. This represents a time change. We are also planning on a small workday to finish installing a retaining wall for the Grandma Line. Work on the retaining wall will start at 8:30 a.m. and continue after the meeting is over.
See everyone around the railroad.
Our next club meeting will be this Saturday, August 2nd at 10 a.m. This represents a time change.
We are also planning on a small workday to finish installing a retaining wall for the Grandma Line. Work on the retaining wall will start at 8:30 a.m. and continue after the meeting is over.
See everyone around the railroad.
The Final Work Day This Saturday To Complete The “Grandma Line”
After more years than we can count, the “Grandma Line” will be completed this weekend. Come out on Saturday, July 26th, starting at 8:30 a.m., as the final 40 feet of track is installed and celebrate with the first train to officially travel over the new line.
Bring lunch, water, tools, and a good sense of humor.
After more years than we can count, the “Grandma Line” will be completed this weekend. Come out on Saturday, July 26th, starting at 8:30 a.m., as the final 40 feet of track is installed and celebrate with the first train to officially travel over the new line.
Bring lunch, water, tools, and a good sense of humor.
The Final Work Day To Complete The “Grandma Line”
After more years than we can count, the “Grandma Line” will be completed this weekend. Come out on Saturday, July 26th, starting at 8:30 a.m., as the final 40 feet of track is installed and celebrate with the first train to officially travel over the new line.
Bring lunch, water, tools, and a good sense of humor.
After more years than we can count, the “Grandma Line” will be completed this weekend. Come out on Saturday, July 26th, starting at 8:30 a.m., as the final 40 feet of track is installed and celebrate with the first train to officially travel over the new line.
Bring lunch, water, tools, and a good sense of humor.