NEW FREEDOM, Pa. — North Central Railway of York has added to its roster with purchase of a GE 80-ton locomotive that will be used in excursion service.
“As part of our strategic growth plan, we have been considering buying another train for some time,” Ashley Zimmerman, the railroad’s executive director, said in a press release. “The GE 80-ton diesel locomotive, which we have numbered 32, will allow us to continue offering fun and memorable experiences for our community members and tourists.”
The locomotive had been remanufactured for the U.S. Army and used at the Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, Pa. It was purchased from McHugh Locomotive & Equipment, which delivered it by truck on Sept. 25. It made its debut in operation on Sept. 28; Zimmerman said it is “in pristine condition and has been well mantained.”
Ann and JC McHugh donated a Hancock air whistle which will be installed on the unit.
“We are passionate about supporting nonprofit, heritage railroads and it has been a pleasure to work with Northern Central Railway of York to complete this transaction,” the McHughs said. We cannot wait to see all the fantastic and family-centered excursions that the GE 80-ton diesel locomotive will get to be a part of.”
North Central Railway, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, also operates a replica 1860-era steam locomotive and a GP9. More information on the railroad and its excursion schedule is available at the railroad website.
