With the arrival of a New Year the Projects Committee has posted the 2022 Project Restoration Plan & Schedule. Visit the Friends web site and choose “Volunteer” and from the pulldown choose “Volunteer Registration” to view the 2022 schedule. Included is a hyperlink that will take you directly there: https://friendsofcumbrestoltec.org/work-session-volunteer-registration/ There is a large assortment of projects within seven scheduled sessions plus one special session in middle of May and others throughout the year. The Colorado Springs work site is a year-round opportunity for members on the front range to work on a variety of Projects. Start making your plans now to attend one or all of the work sessions; projects are located in both Antonito and Chama and along the rail.
Like so many of us, the rail cars continue to wear out. Now we are faced with more cars needing repairs than there are volunteers to repair them! We need YOU, the members, to help with repairs to the historic fleet of rolling stock. Recent changes by the FRA require a brake test on each operational historic car at the beginning of each season. Session A & B, Project 0779, will need additional help. The railroad will provide training on the procedure. There are many other projects that are continuing and a few new ones. Find that special project that interests you and become a part of an award-winning restoration organization. With your participation comes tremendous satisfaction in knowing you are working to restore part of a National Landmark. There is a special camaraderie with other volunteers as well; many say it was the railroad that brought them to volunteer but it’s the people that keep them coming back.
Registration for work session opens March 1st, plan now as to the session(s) you will attend. Projects and schedules do change so check the Friends website for updates frequently.
Questions can be directed to the Projects Committee: Don Atkinson at atk3985@comcast.net or call 757-846-8241 or John Engs at jengs@cumbrestoltec.org or call 719-499-1228.