Willamette Valley #2502 powered the first train on the NWP in eight years. Check out Christian Goepel's NWP Blog for pics and further story.
Are ya sure those WVR units 2502 & 2503 were not ex BN because all the research I've done just says they are ex SP. The paint exactly matches BN!!!
As far as I recall, there was something in one of the lawsuits that required any power used on the line to meet new emissions regulations. I believe this mean the SD9s and GP9s will not be able to be used.
MRL- I think you have a few railroads mixed up here. First off, yes, the Willamette Valley GP35's are ex-SP. 2502- ex SP 6360 2503- ex SP 6361 NWP never did have any GP9's painted up to look like a cow...I think you may be thinking of the Port of Tillamook Bay Railroad. Jeff Moore Elko, NV
Nice site. Keep us posted of further updates. I like the statement made "...One woman acted as if she had seen an apparition." Get used to it people. Many changes are coming in transportation across the USA, with greater emphasis on rail. Like it or not, many old lines or rights of way will be reactivated. Even in your own back yard. Boxcab E50
I remember the first time I drove by Schelville. It was Jan 2001, so still theoretically active and even then it was impossible to imagine that a train had run on those rails in decades. When I was back in the area in 05 it looked even worse. This is exciting news.
Any excuse is a good excuse!! I don't even need an excuse. Was gonna try and get to Woodland/Davis to hunt some new CFNR gensets but had to help my sister move. Its all good cause I've got 11 straight days off coming after next Wed. Gonna do me some hunting!
Boxcab E50 wrote "What are they using for power now?" Answer: Nothing. The WVR unit was brought down specifically for work train service, and since that has now ended the unit has returned home. Various announcements indicate that freight service is still on track to resume this spring. I have yet to see any news or notes as to what power they are planning to use. Last I heard the SW-1500 and two SD40-2's the previous operator used are still in the area and working on CFNR. Jeff Moore Elko, NV
The two SD40-2s went to CORP, then to KYLE. The SW1500 supposedly went to Texas somewhere but I have no further news. Currently I believe the only power on the line are the units stuck in Eureka or the one GP in Petaluma.
