New proposed rail attraction a boost for town in Alberta

Not yet approved but in the works

Anthony Murdoch
News Editor
Wednesday May 24, 2006

Nanton Heritage Railway presented an exciting proposal to Nanton Town Council on May 8, regarding the possibility of build a railway attraction next to the town’s historic elevators.

The group by way of a benefactor has arrangements for a 800 feet section of railway track, which once given approval, would go in front of the former Canadian Pacific Railway right-of –way, which is currently owned by the Town.

There is already a search on to find two rail cars that are hoped to be placed on the tracks within the next two years. This according to Nanton Heritage railway would bring back authentic railway to Nanton, giving town a more historic feel.
“We’d like the attraction to be just that, an attraction with interactive displays, rides on historic equipment, such as handcars and speeders, which are small motorized track inspection and maintenance cars,” commented Stan Baric, group participant.

Nanton’s Mayor John Blake and Council gave preliminary approval for the railway proposal at the May 8 meeting. It must be reiterated however that the final decision will be made following a community meeting, which will included all interested parties. No date has been set for this community meeting, as Nanton Heritage Railway still has to present Town Council with another proposal.

“We are waiting for them to bring us a business plan, get the town’s opinion and see what they want,” commented Nanton Mayor John Blake. “Community input is obviously needed, as everyone wants to have their say. This is a really big news event for the town and we need to get the message out about it now.”
Florence Brown, Nanton Town Councillor, is also very excited about the new proposal.

“This is a really big deal and a very interesting proposal,” commented "It is a very exciting proposal that we received, and we want to make sure that people