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Railroad Partners, Inc is a NARCOA affiliate and 501(c)3 non-profit
organization. RPI was formed in October of 2008 for the purpose
of preserving rail corridors for public transportation and recreational
(motorcar) purposes. The organization is modeled after the Recreational
Railroad Coalition in California who gave the RPI founders the
inspiration to attempt to preserve threatened rail corridors.
Negotiations with Capitol Metro Transportation
of Austin, Texas by RPI have resulted in a successful lease agreement
for 27 miles of track on the west end of the Llano branch. The
leased portion extends from Scobey Spur to the end of track in
Llano, TX. Since the lease became effective on November 1, 2009,
RPI has provided light maintenance on the line and conducts motorcar
excursions and rail safety exercises. Maintenance activities
are conducted by RPI trained volunteers.
Since its founding, RPI has worked to provide
Operation Lifesaver presentations, participated in Capitol Metro's
rail transit safety programs, acquired rolling stock, and made
rail safety and preservation presentations at public events.
In addition, RPI has frequently hosted motorcars excursions in
which proceeds are used to fund RPI mission activities. We are
currently working with rail transportation districts across Texas
to offer our volunteer services to promote and preserve marginal
or threatened rail lines. We are also in need of your voluntary
labor and your donations to further our efforts at preserving
the Llano Branch and other marginal rail lines.
The Llano Branch now sees routine motorcar
operations. However, it will take some ongoing light maintenance
efforts to keep the line in good shape. We are seeking NARCOA
certified and insured operators to assist with line maintenance
prior to NARCOA runs. Watch this web page for announcement of
work session dates. |