http://www.thesmokymountaintimes.com/ar ... news02.txt

This was in The Smoky Mountain Times on Oct. 17th. Very cool to see it all coming together. It really is beginning to feel like the South will once again be a place to consistently see great steam...no offense to any other geographic location.

I am sure that someone close to NC, GA, TN borders...can on occasion check up to see if any movement is occurring with the turntable or 1702 overhaul. On Google Earth it is quite clear where the turntable pit and property are located.

Pardon me for not researching this but is the plan to buy 1702 before restoring her? She is the 1942 Baldwin referred to in the article. Correct?

If you research earlier news articles out of the area...Bryson City will technically own the 1702...with the engine being leased to the railroad...with the understanding that it MUST be restored, etc.

I believe the arrangements being made are going to benefit both the railroad and the city. I travel to that area...for the outdoor sports...the fact that the railroad is there is simply a bonus. And, I am looking at the bright side...since there will be a turntable...the flange wear on the 1702 will be more uniform since it will get to roll in both directions now.