Harper and Delli Priscolli to buy Conway Scenic

robertjohndavis · **Joined:** Mon Aug 23, 2004 8:10 am **Posts:** 2499

http://www.conwaydailysun.com/newsx/local-news/122736-sale-agreement-for-conway-scenic-rr-confirmed

This is probably the biggest heritage railroading news of the year. The CSRR is one of the longest running heritage railroads in the U.S.

Formed in the early 70's, I think one could argue it was the last of the first generation of heritage railroads to be created. It's definitely one of the best.

It also has tremendous untapped opportunity. With interchange links in place to Montreal, Portland and Boston (with the latter two routes having significant miles OOS); a major ski area literally on the route; an operating hub in a region desperate for local transportation alternatives; three lengths of heritage rides to choose from (the "magic" under 1 hour trip for the family, slightly longer options and an all day excursion); and a variety of interesting equipment it seems someone with the financial wherewithal could move the CSRR into a totally uncharted future (and hopefully one that includes daily steam operation).

It will be interesting to watch. With Harper's experience packing them in for long scenic runs in Durango, the Crawford Notch line could see growth. Delli Priscolli had the vision to create the Thomas theme park at Edaville. That's a combination that could pack a strong 1-2 punch.

Rob

Richard Glueck · **Posted:** Fri Oct 02, 2015 9:49 am

Let us hope they are steam savvy and maintain a positive relationship with the "470 Club".

omar · **Posted:** Fri Oct 02, 2015 11:17 am

"Day Out With Thomas" will be hitting North Conway - guaranteed!

Traffic Jams?

robertjohndavis · **Joined:** Mon Aug 23, 2004 8:10 am **Posts:** 2499

omar wrote:

"Day Out With Thomas" will be hitting North Conway - guaranteed!

Traffic Jams?

They have been doing DOWT at North Conway for years.

Smart planning could see the railroad play a huge role in relieving those epic traffic jams the plague Route 16z

Rob

Dave · **Posted:** Fri Oct 02, 2015 4:00 pm

I think they have the national marketing savvy and available capital to take the railroad to the next level. This is a good thing for all of us, since whatever makes any of us stronger helps us all. Dick, you 470 guys need to deal with what you can bring to the table to be a valuable partner, but you already know that...... and have worked it out. A long wet winter is coming up, let's put it to good use.

R.L.Kennedy · **Joined:** Mon Jan 12, 2009 9:37 pm **Posts:** 242

What is the outlook for steam? Curious as I am the person who was first responsible for saving 7470.

bpiche84 · **Posted:** Fri Oct 02, 2015 5:26 pm

R.L.Kennedy wrote:

What is the outlook for steam? Curious as I am the person who was first responsible for saving 7470.

My guess would be "good". Everything I've ever heard about Mr Priscolli is that he's a steam fan, and Mr Harper's other business venture speaks for itself with regards to it's steam program.

railfan261 · **Joined:** Fri Apr 27, 2012 6:30 pm **Posts:** 226

How much would it cost to bring the Conway Scenic's OOS lines back into operation?

Lincoln Penn · **Joined:** Wed Feb 02, 2011 9:40 pm **Posts:** 841

Richard Glueck wrote:

Let us hope they are steam savvy and maintain a positive relationship with the "470 Club".

Given Al Harper's record at Durango & Silverton, I have no concerns at all about the first part of your statement.

daylight4449 · **Posted:** Mon Oct 05, 2015 10:21 am

Great news indeed. I do take issue with one part of that article though... It says he operates the Seaview down in Davisville. Last I checked, it was owned by Eric Moffet (who has done some work with Mr. Prescolli)...