FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Kim Smith Flowers
General Manager
Rio Grande Railway Preservation Corporation
(505) 756-1589
Bob Johnson, Executive Director
C&TSRR Commission
(719) 376-5483
Cumbres & Toltec back on track
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission and the Rio Grande Railway Preservation Corp (RGRPC) reached an agreement regarding the future operations of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad during a meeting on February 8.
Steve Malnar, one of two New Mexico Commissioners stated, “We are pleased to announce that a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Commission and RGRPC. This memorandum empowers both entities to work vigorously toward the salvation of the 2003 season and beyond.” The document will be presented to the New Mexico legislative session later this week, to validate the $964,000 appropriation request by the Commission. “The leaders of the Legislature have made it clear to the Commission that the appropriation request must be supported by a operating contract. We have accomplished that, as well as providing a starting point for RGRPC to begin their work.” Malnar added. The actual contract will be submitted to the Attorney General’s office for review before it is signed.
The agreement between the Commission and RGRPC establishes a new business model in the form of a management agreement, shifting the financial risk from the operator to the owner.
“It is time to move forward if we are going to have any type of season for 2003. We have huge tasks ahead of us, and time is not on our side. I am relieved to have reached an agreement with the Commission. I believe that this agreement is the best solution under the current circumstances. We must now focus on the tasks ahead of us, work together and revive this unique presentation of American history,” stated Kim Smith Flowers, General Manager for RGRPC.
Smith Flowers and Malnar both agreed that the 2003 season would not be the traditional season, with daily departures from both Chama and Antonito. Announcement of the 2003 schedule should be released soon.
“We need to thank Governor Richardson and Lieutenant Governor Denish for their continued support and promise of commitment during these negotiations. Without the financial backing from the state of New Mexico, there is no doubt that we would not have been able to continue the operation of the train,” Malnar added.
