About
Mission Statement
The Commission’s mission is to preserve and develop the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a historical 19th Century railroad “Museum on Wheels,” for the education, enlightenment and enjoyment of future generations.
Goals & Objectives
The goal of the Commission is to develop the operation of the C&TSRR into a positive business; providing good employment opportunities for the citizens of the areas around Antonito and Chama; and promoting tourist related businesses in the communities helping them thrive and prosper.
History
The States of New Mexico and Colorado joined together and purchased the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in 1970. In 1977, the bi-state agency, Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission, was created to act on behalf of the two states in overseeing the operation of the C&TSRR. The Commission is composed of four members, two from each state, appointed by their respective state Governor. The Commission sets the policies for the management of the C&TSRR. The Commission formed CTO, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary responsible for railroad operations and administrative support of the activities of Commission.
Past Projects
The Commission is continuing a Track upgrade Project, involving the replacement of nearly 30,000 ties to date; purchase and installation of 46,000 tons of rock ballast; surfacing and aligning 59 miles of track. As a result of the work done thus far, numerous slow orders have been removed and the operating speeds of the trains increased, providing a smoother ride for the patrons onboard the train.
Steam Engine 489 was restored to service after a major renovation over the winters of 2006-2007 and 2007-2008. The project brought Locomotive 489 into compliance with the Federal Railroad Administration rules and regulations for steam locomotives. In addition, the restoration of Engine 463 has added flexibility to the schedule of regular trains, providing the opportunity to operate special trains and to double head larger trains from Chama to Cumbres.
Improvements have been made to the Ash Pit and Engine House in Chama, improving their efficiency and ease of operation.
Future Projects
The Commission is seeking funds to continue the Track Upgrade Project to provide for the purchase and installation of additional ties and rock ballast along with work on the bridges and construction of retaining walls. These infrastructure improvements are needed to upgrade the condition of the track and provide for long term reliability of this key component of the C&TSRR.
The Commission has completed an addition on the east side of the Car Shop in Antonito. The addition has provided open work space, restrooms, storage space and free up space inside the existing Car Shop.
The Friends and the Commission are working towards the construction of a Railroad Visitor Center/Museum. This facility will allow the C&TSRR to more effectively display the history of the19th Century narrow gauge Railroad and the C&TSRR.
Email any questions/comments for the Commission to: commission@cumbrestoltec.com
