John,
This is just a suggestion, but if the 315 is to go back to the park, I would suggest that it be surrounded with a glass or lexan screen. That way people can see it and yet keep graffiti idiots and thieves from getting their grimy hands on it. Unfortunately, there are to many people that exist in this world that have no respect whatsoever for public or private property. They destroy property because they cannot stand the fact that others pour their sweat and money into something and have been successful at it. Somehow defacing or destroying equipment is their way of bringing everyone else down to their miserable state.
The V&T locomotive #18 "Dayton" was at the NSRM in Carson City. It has now been moved for display purposes by the NSRM up to Virginia City where it is on public display in a building that looks very historic, and yet is open to view through protective protective glass when the building is closed. That way it can be observed by the public 24/7 and be completely secure.
Anyway, I know how much you and the rest of the guys have poured your hearts out for the 315, and I would hate to see anything destroy all that effort. Whenever Eureka is out either I, or one of the crew is always with it. I have had to do this because even when I thought it was secure, some low life stole parts off of it when we left it alone for just a short period. Frankly, I was so God damned mad that I almost vowed never to take it out again.
If Durango values what your group has done in returning the 315 to life, and values the history your project represents, they will secure it. Having cops patrol the park just is not sufficient. Just consider how many freeway signs and buildings have been plastered with paint in front of thousands of motorists and police. Leaving the 315 out is a guarantee that the will be destoryed.
Dan Markoff