The last time I was in Central City (2019) I wanted to stop and see how 71 was doing. Needless to say I could NOT find a place to park anywhere near the engine, even in a pay lot. I ended up walking a LONG way to get the attached photo.
Parking is in short supply in Central City. I have to wonder if the new operators of the line have taken this into consideration. Central City is not the same as it was in 1967, or 1981, or even 2010. There seems to be an "if you build it, they will come" attitude in railroad preservation, but just because you have track and offer a train ride does not guarantee riders. If there isn't a place to park nearby, there won't be riders on the train. It's that simple.
Another issue is that Central City does not cater to families. They want adults that buy high-priced food and drinks. They want gamblers. In 2019 my daughter said, "Dad, this place is boring. There's nothing to do here." We didn't see a park or a playground, let alone any family activities. A train ride alone won't bring families to town.
My personal opinion (and this is mine alone) is that this group should not be allowed to do any mechanical work to No. 71. It really needs to be left alone at this point in its history. If they can incorporate it into an indoor covered display, that would be great, but as for it steaming again....
If they desire to run a steam locomotive, it would be best to purchase something like this:
[
discoverlivesteam.com]
I'll get off of my soapbox now.