Re: Problems with open access to railroads - SG incident with ng implications

I recall Earl once mentioned something to the effect that the Chama yard is actually on a 1% grade, higher on the east end and lower on the west end, which means all rolling stock in Chama must be carefully chocked in addition to handbrakes. So yes, it is a concern.

The recent runaway incident in Utica, New York which Doug refers to is really distressing to me, since the little 0-6-0 the covered hopper smashed into, New York Central 6721, is a favorite of mine and truly a gem of an engine -- a rare survivor of NYC steam and remarkably well preserved (until now). She was on display right alongside Utica Union Station just feet from the old NYC main on what was formerly the station track for the NYO&W, now just a siding. There was a bumper in front of her, but the hopper smashed right through that and kept on going. By stopping the runaway car she undoubtedly saved the lives of multiple Amtrak passengers who just happened to be waiting on the platform at that very moment, but the damage appears to have been severe.

In better days (photo from [[url=http://www.trainweb.org/amtrakpix/travelogues/120613A/634-2089.jpg]trainweb.org[/url]]):



[[url=http://www.trainweb.org/amtrakpix/travelogues/120613A/630-1882.jpg]trainweb.org[/url]]


-Philip Marshall



Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 07/28/2015 03:49AM by philip.marshall.