It is not a rumor, Joe Kovalchick has stated explicity and publicly that his family will no longer operate trains at the EBT. The last time they operated the trains directly was 2008.
The East Broad Top Railroad Preservation Association operated the trains from 2009-2011. The existing EBT web site was built under the EBTPA, though it is not clear to me who owns the site now. The EBTPA, by name, seems to keep a low profile. There are no bylaws, no elections, no memberships, and it appears only Larry Salone and someone who works for him are on the board.
The monies mentioned in the Endangered Landmarks list is federal money administered through the state. It is just over 2 million and the strings and restrictions on the money is more complex than I understand, and I have tried. It is from three different programs awarded as two different times, both at least two or three years ago. They are for repairing track and purchasing of land for freight operations in Mount Union. Supposedly a third grant was immenent, but I haven't heard anything on it.
I do not beleive the sale incudes any of the timber/mineral lands formerly of the Rockhill Iron and Coal Company.
It is my impression that the EBT is in an area of PA that very little power or influence in state politics. That in addition to PA's recent budget shortfalls, monies coming directly from the state's coffers seems unlikely. The NPS was at the EBT in the late 80's and early 90's but backed away, prupotedly because they did not want two rail sites in the sames state (Steamtown.)
The FEBT and the EBT have cooperated during the time that the EBTPA was operating trains.
As far as I can tell the EBTPA has only been soliciting funds from government programs rather than the general publc (at least in any great quantity.) I'm not sure that the NRHS statement about sending donations to the EBTPA was even solicited. Donations might be better sent to the FEBT Preservation Fund which directlly funds the FEBT restoration work which continues to progress.
riends of the East Broad Top
Restoration Fund Treasurer
12-513 Shady Avenue
Pittsburgh PA 15206
Christopher D. Coleman
[
www.febt.org] Friends of the East Broad Top
[
www.spikesys.com] East Broad Top Homepage
[
www.eastbroadtop.com] East Broad Top Railroad
