I think the figure of $3,000 is what they are doing charter trains for, so that should be the benchmark for the engineer program. Obviously they have figured they can make a profit at that rate with a full crew.
A rough idea: 10 fireman pay $250.00, and 10 Engineers pay $350.00 each. Each runs for one hour on a 10-hour train day, after spending the necessary time of classroom training in the yard
the day prior. This should gross $6,000.00.
Those who want a video of their hour can pay an additional $100.00 for a special one-of-a-kind video(RR splits with video company). Say 10 guys do this, there is another $500.00 for the Railroad.
Additional family members, friends,or whatever can ride the train also for a reduced fair of $25.00. Add on another 20 people for this, and you have $500.00 more.
If more than 20 sign-up do another session. If 40 folks sign-up you have two days of trains which net about $7,000.00 per day.
Also, if 40 or more sign up, you could offer a third day special photo train, for Say $100.00 apeice as many would probably be willing to hang around. This would net at least $4,000(or if only 30 then $3,000). It would be a fun 3 days, and potentially profitable.
Any thoughts from board members out there!
Greg Scholl