Re: Why the fuss over new vistor center?

If, as appears to be the case based on the comments on these threads, the north yard is unacceptable for a visitor center/interpretive museum lets look at another area, especially one close to the station. A few years ago a restroom building was built south of the station. What else is down there that would be impacted with a visitor facility? Is RR land available for a single or two-story building (two-story if backs up to Terrace Ave)? Is there a vacant lot in the area that may be suitable for such a facility (yes, money would have to be raised to purchase private land)? Is there a building that could be renovated for such a use? Could a non-historic building be purchased and razed to build the center? What would the citizens of Chama think about such a plan if it comes to that?

If I recall correctly, most of the historic buildings/structures are from the station north and the area to the south is car storage. I'm not talking about the far south near the stock pens but close enough to the station for walking. Positioning the RVC away from the north yard is the only way that I see to avoid impacting the views and historic nature of the area.

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Below is a repeat of Roger's scan from the 1994 plan. See Area 3 which was identified for use in future operations, including a two-story building. However, the location I'm thinking of for a RVC would be further to the south. I'm sure that such locations have been considered by the Friends, but to what extent I don't know. There may be physical/institutional considerations not yet cited here for not considering that area. But it may be time to look again at those sites.