More Monday morning rail news:
Oregon excursion train cancels season
Northeast Oregon’s Eagle Cap Excursion Train has cancelled its 2020 season after previously delaying opening because of the coronavirus pandemic. The operation based in Elgin, Ore., made the decision based on the risk involved in operating, given the age of passengers and volunteers and the enclosed and close-quarters environment of the train rides. The Friends of the Joseph Branch, who operate the train trips on the 63-mile line dating to 1908, said they will use this year to improve equipment and work with owner of the route, the Wallowa Union Rail Authority, to upgrade the right-of-way in preparation for 2021.
COVID-19 restrictions shut down Tioga Central
The Tioga Central Railroad, which operates a 34-mile tourist rail line between Wellsboro, Pa., and the Corning, N.Y., area, has suspended operations until further notice because of restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, WETM-TV reports. No additional details are available.
Derailment blocks roadways in Centralia, Wash.
Roadways could be closed for up to three days because of a train derailment in Centralia, Wash., on Sunday, KIRO-TV in Seattle reports. North Tower Street and B Street are blocked by the derailment of 15 cars from a Puget Sound & Pacific train that occurred about 5 p.m. on Sunday. Photos on the website of the Lewis County Chronicle show most of the cars involved are empty centerbeam flat cars. The Puget Sound & Pacific is a 158-mile Genesee & Wyoming short line that interchanges with BNSF and Union Pacific in Centralia.
