GLRR,Inc. had been in negotiations with CHS for a couple of years previous to the expiration of the contract in 2004. During that time numerous proposals were made to try and rationalize the responsibilities of both parties (CHS & GLRR, Inc.) to ensure the long term viability of the operation. CHS was steadfast in their demands for more money, more insurance and more control over the business operations, advertising and marketing. They were completely unwilling (or unable, as they claimed) to assist GLRR with any infrastructure maintenance or rehabilitation that was not owned by CHS. The framework CHS required GLRR to work under was considered unacceptable and was felt would result in the eventual economic failure of the business. Unwilling to submit themselves to slow economic ruin, GLRR Inc. elected to withdraw from the operation. When CHS issued an RFP for the operation of the railroad, GLRR reviewed it but again felt the requirements and constraints were too onerous to be acceptable and so did not respond.
As it turned out the requirements in the RFP went out the window when Railstar was the only respondent. All bets were off and the business was partitioned with different concessionaires taking over reservations, gift shop operations, train operations and marketing. No one but CHS wound up having to spend any money on the operation. If the amounts of money that have been spent would have made available to utilize under a new, workable contract with the previous operator there would have been unbelievable developments and improvements in equipment and infrastructure.
Marketing, vital to an attraction like the Loop, has been minimal after years of development by GLRR, Inc. This year marketing is non existent. The effects of reduced ridership to the economies of the local municipalities and county will be huge, and will take years to recover from, if at all.
As I said, it is the pinnacle of frustration to have worked so hard for so long to establish a railroad attraction that was safe, became known world-wide and was highly successful deteriorate into the mess we have today, especially when it didn't have to happen.
Some have claimed that GLRR, Inc. was too unyielding in their demands in a new contract to operate the Loop. That may be so, but what it came down to was a business decision to quit while we were ahead rather than doom ourselves to slow economic oblivion. All along I think CHS may have actually had this in mind figuring they would just take over the equipment when their concessionaire finally went bankrupt.
Well, that's my story from the front lines. I've held off commenting much on this issue for two years as it has been so acrimonious. I continue to hope for the sucessful and safe operation of the Loop by Railstar, CHS, or whoever. I would recommend to the owners and/or operators to seek out experienced staff and accept advice on all aspects of the operation of the Loop - there's no reason to try and reinvent the wheel. The steam and railroad fraternity is close knit and helpful. All that's needed is the display of a little credibility, desire to do things right, and willingness to learn from your mistakes.
Phil Johnson
Loop volunteer for 5 years, employee and Superintendent for GLRR, Inc. for 20 years.