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Published on TBNWeekly.com - Feb. 21, 2007

Editorial
Keep the trains running

Back in 1991, the possibility of a railroad running through the city’s park might have sounded like a great way to kill the idea to construct a hallmark recreation area.

But then parks director Cathy Santa took a chance on what could have been a major embarrassment for Largo

But it was not.

The small-gauge railroad in Largo Central Park is facing some financial difficulties and the city should help maintain the fleet of engines. The Largo Central Railroad is known for its monthly runs along about 3 miles of track.

The men who run the railroad have long relied on donations, but the fare to ride the train is free. Last year, the railroad took in $28,000 and hauled between 2,000 and 3,000 people.

It’s getting more and more expensive to keep the engines in good repair. The railroad purchased a new engine last year for $14,000.

“It is getting increasingly difficult for us (to) maintain our operation on donations and birthdays alone,” according to a Warren Jamison, the club’s president in an e-mail to the City Commission last month.

The club has enlisted the support of Commissioner Mary Gray Black who wants the city to help operate the railroad.

She’s right about asking for financial help. The railroad is well-known throughout the county for its trains. About once a month, families have brought their kids to the park specifically to ride the trains.

It’s been a win-win situation for all involved. The club members get to pursue their railroad hobby while the public gets some good, old-fashioned fun.

The club has seen some progress go up around it. First the Largo Cultural Center, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, opened its doors. Then the city soon began talking about replacing the old library, a project that culminated in the summer of 2005 with a beautiful piece of architecture.

Now, it’s time for the city to continue this community-enriching diversion and find the money to help the railroad. It’s money well spent.

Article published on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2007