Effective October 20th, NS and Amtrak will shutdown the LAST operational manned NYC and wooden construction interlocking tower in Kalamazoo, MI. This marks the end of years of tradition at Kalamazoo and the remarkable history of BO Tower. The Saxby interlocking machine was silenced 2 years ago, and the interlocker was converted to push button operation. Upon closure, Amtrak will take over dispatching duties on the former NYC mainline from Dearborn, MI to Porter, IN creating a new Amtrak corridor.

R.I.P. BO Tower!



Les

Time marches on. Have good memories of hanging out at BO tower, when I was in grad school, back in the late 60s. I met some dedicated and competent employees, and learned a great deal about railroading operations which served me well, over the years. Watching the early days of Penn Central, with the attempted cross utilization of NYC and PRR power, was at times like watching the Keystone Cops. Long ago and far away....

BO is being raised? That really stinks.

Actually, no. MDOT is working with the Henry Ford Museum to bring the structure and Saxby machine to Greenfield Village for eventual display to the public.

WOW! Three cheers for the Henry Ford! Hope they get it done. And I will take back my earlier "Rest in Peace" for BO Tower.


Les

UPDATE: Last shift is 3rd Trick on October 25th. This makes the tower 102 years and 23 Days old when it closes. The interworkings, model board, and all necessary interlocking material besides the Saxby machine has been sent to the Henry Ford for its safe keeping until the tower is moved.