Please don't shoot the messenger - I'm just providing a link:

http://www.altoonamirror.com/page/conte ... ml?nav=742

I think the future for the 1361 finally looks good. With the economy final starting to run like its supposed to and climbing out of the depths the state of pennsylvania will start sending funds to help her get running again. The good news about the frame and other parts also helps. The biggest thing holding her back is the boiler and once it is finally safe it shouldn't take long to get her back together in altoona as long as that roundhouse project doesnt stall. I'm hoping they will be almost done with her by the time I can drive. After all the hardships shes gone though the only way to go now is foward.

With the economy final starting to run like its supposed to and climbing out of the depths the state of pennsylvania will start sending funds to help her get running again.


No matter what the state of the economy (and its difficult to imagine how persistent 9% unemployment, $3 plus/gallon gas et al constitutes " starting to run like its supposed to") it's highly unlikely that the Commonwealth will be a regular, reliable or substantial source of funds to this endeavor in the foreseeable future.

It has nothing to do with the merits of project, but long term fiscal constraints (aging population and the coming "pension spike") and the existence of conspicuous and cohesive groups that can deliver votes to legislators for "funding" (specifically in healthcare and education).

In the recent budget deal, legislators moved to minimize the reductions in the amounts provided to colleges initially proposed by the governor-no doubt in response to the fear of irritating a highly active political constituency.

If you've ever seen pups nursing, you know how the "runt" goes last, or without and maybe be tossed out of the litter-politically, historic preservation is the runt.

Favorite quote:

"People have said Strasburg Rail Road should have gotten the (restoration) job, and in hindsight, it's probably true, given that firm's stellar reputation," (Museum Executive Director Larry) Salone said.

I'll write a full report with pics on my blog, but I just got back from a roadtrip with my son to Indiana to ride the NKP #765 photo frieght. We stopped in Altoona today at the museum and the curve. I am impressed with the cross marketing being done with the EBT, that experiment might have some legs.

Rob

Again, more good news than bad. Also,it seems like the people "in the know" have more information and have thought through the project to its end.
Once again, I will stay amongst the positive and hopeful, to see 1361 run once more.

Thanks for the posting.