The Valley Railroad, in its continuing track expansion program has reached the south end of the Midway Marina in Haddam, CT, at Milepost 13.5. The spiking crew finished this section on Thursday, May 19, and the first train since Spring, 1968 operated to this point today. Expansion work will continue by the railroad and Friends of the Valley Railroad crews through the upcoming season.

Here is a short video of that first train, departing south to Essex:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9fbuNQ6K6M

Enjoy,
Lee

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

I have visited and ridden the Valley RR many times over the past 40 some-odd years and have never been disappointed in the experience.

For my money you guys have always been one of the top operations in the business. From my first visit, when you were first getting started, to now, I have seen you go from strength to strength.

Nice to know some good things haven't changed!


Sincerely,
Glenn Christensen

This is great news, congratulations.

I agree with Glenn, the Valley RR is a fine operation and always a delight.

How far north do you plan to go? All the way to Middletown someday? :)

-Philip Marshall

The railroad's line runs +/- 22 miles to southern Middletown, where P&W takes over the route. I assume that un bel' di, the track will be open to passenger service all the way, albeit long after I've shuffled off this mortal coil.

Lee

Congratulations! I know how hard it is to maintain the track tourist lines normally run on, let alone to apply the extra effort and cost to extend it. My hat is off to all of you! I have only ridden your line once but that did include a special Old Saybrook shuttle to pick our group up from Amtrak. I hope to visit again in the future to collect this additional mileage!