Fritz - I'm not sure who told you the depot has been abandoned but it wouldn't hurt to check your facts before you post them on here. That is simply not the case, quite the opposite in fact. The depot has been closed temporarily for much needed refurbishing and upgrading. The bunkhouse will be upgraded and so will the downstairs museum.
Having the ticket sales based from the grand imperial is a huge asset as passengers will no longer need to walk 5 blocks away from the train and then 5 blocks back just to pick up tickets, many passengers are not excited when they are told how far they need to go to get tickets, especially when the train is nearing departure. Passengers will now be able to see the ticket office right from where the train is parked on 12th st. And that is a big help.
And for those Railfans and historians who want to see the inside of the depot and the museum within they have absolutely not missed their chance, the depot will be open to the public again soon and we encourage everyone to come check it out as you are right, it is truly a historic and special building, one that the D&S will work hard to preserve for years to come.
Matt