The issue was an extension of boundaries for the Demonstration Train run, at the El Dorado Train Park. This resolution defined the Train run boundaries at 3.5 miles or so, which is 2.75 miles more than had been discussed to date. I know it is only 2.75 miles, but it is significant when thinking of trail development. It may cost 1 to 2 million dollars more to build next to the line and that makes trail development expensive. We suggested keeping the original .75 distance for now.
There is a grant application for the Park and the Trail that may be awarded in Fall of this year. It may bring in 1 million for trail development and that would be great, but how far does 1 million go? Our experience on the most recently completed section of trail, from Forni to Missouri Flat Road, was approximately $450,000 per mile. That section was done mostly on the old rail bed and one section, off the bed, was very expensive. The 2.2 miles from Missouri Flat to the Train Park would be off the rail bed. 1 mil, less 20% for DOT project management and engineering, would leave us with $800,000. Divide that by 2.2 would leave $360,000 per mile and that is $90,000 less per mile than the recent, on the bed, build out. Seems like a stretch. Then there is the other 2.3 miles from the park to the west with the new Resolution boundaries of Mother Lode Drive. There is no money for this part of the extended boundaries. The trail would be forced to the side and we may need another million or two to build it out.
This resolution could be done in three phases.
1) Keep the original .75 miles. Trail can be put with ease along this section of track.
2) If we get the Grant in the fall, and the trail can be built for $360,000 per mile, then let the Demonstration Train extend to Missouri Flat Road
3) Get a good estimate of the cost to build out the trail from the park, to the West and to the Mother lode Wye, and then make a decision on feasibility and extending the Demonstration Train.
These aren't all my ideas, but are some thoughts that have been batted around lately. I hope the Train folks can relax some and realize that we can build both together, and there is no need to push the Train options ahead, with no regard for the Trail.
Hi Mike: What about another idea? I am assuming the excursion train will largely be funded by a private developer. What if we propose that the county allow them to build the rail line with the provision that they must also provide funding for a trail alongside the railway? If that could be done, they could have their train and the trail might be largely paid for by them. I guess I would rather not ride beside a train but it would be a good compromise if it meant a better chance to get a trail done.
ReplyDeleteIt is a good idea, but! No Excursion Trains make any real money. So, it would be hard to imagine 1 to 2 million a mile for building off the rail bed, of excess profits from the Excursion Train. I think the Western Rail Guys are going to have hard time making it financially. I think they have a great opportunity, with a great location and we really want to see them succeed. They are local people who have been working toward this Park for years. They love their trains and we need to support them and help with our volunteers. This Park will be a great attraction and the trail will help funnel people to the Demonstration Train.
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