Sad news
Published: May 18, 2012 - TRAINS News Wire
ORBISONIA, Pa. — For the first time in 52 years, the famed East Broad
Top narrow gauge heritage railway will not operate for the summer tourist
season, it was announced today. In 2009 the nonprofit East Broad
Preservation Association signed a three-year contract to operate the
railroad’s
trains, with an option to purchase. This year the association could not work
out
an agreement with the railroads owner, railroad’s owner, Joe Kovalchick to
operate trains over the three-foot gauge line.
The association said that the announcement does not mean that the railroad
will not reopen again, and that it is hopeful that an agreement can be
worked out to operate trains in 2013.
The association will still be offering tours of the railroad’s shops and
roundhouse for groups of 20 or more. Advance reservations are required and
can be made by calling 814-447-3011.
The coal-hauling East Broad Top closed in 1956 and was purchased by
Kovalchick Salvage Co. Rather than tear up the line, the company’s owner, Nick
Kovalchick, reopened a portion of the railroad for excursions in 1960. Still
owned by the Kovalchick family, the EBT was designated a National Historic
Landmark in 1964 and is the last original narrow gauge railroad east of the
Rockies.
Jim Lyle
