"Repairs delay Georgetown Loop" *LINK*

Broken engine that can't: Repairs delay Georgetown Loop
By Steve Lipsher Denver Post Staff Writer
Article Last Updated: 05/24/2007 01:30:16 AM MDT
Georgetown - A mechanical problem has sidetracked the Georgetown Loop's only working steam engine, postponing the train's summer opening and leaving the town without its signature tourist attraction for this weekend's Railroad Days festival.
Ongoing repairs to the axle broken on the antique engine, No. 12, in August means the unique corkscrewing narrow-gauge line won't start running until June 15.
"Unfortunately, you don't just buy the parts at Wal-Mart," said Tom Hill, spokesman for the train operators.
Last summer, the line operated with a second steam engine, No. 9, but that also is down for repairs, Hill said. Operators have a diesel "helper" engine, but it isn't deemed sufficient for the demands of eight runs daily.
The delayed opening gives fodder once again to critics of the Colorado Historical Society, which three years ago dropped its relationship with the train's former operators after 30 years and awarded a contract to New York-based Railstar Corp., which has been beset by operating problems and diminished passenger loads.
Staff writer Steve Lipsher can be reached at 970-513-9495 or slipsher@denverpost.com.