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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.
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