1 January 2009
Railway Rolls to Record Year
Ex-Canadian Pacific Railway number 3716
2-8-0 Consolidation class N2b beside
the Trout Creek bridge on the Kettle Valley Railway tourist
line.
Summerland British Columbia - The Kettle Valley Steam
Railway had a record ridership with 25,134 passengers this year despite cancelling a number of Christmas runs due to weather. The
number surpasses last year's 24,700.
It was full steam ahead for the Kettle Valley Railway this year as it broke ridership records in its 14th year.
"We are very thankful for the continued support from residents of the Okanagan and British Columbia as a whole," said Jo Ann
Reynolds of the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. "Our continued growth in ridership is very rewarding for staff, the board of
directors and volunteers who work hard to provide a quality product for B.C.'s tourism industry.
"This year we made big gains in site development with the construction of a new washroom facility as well as extended station and
picnic shelter platforms."
These projects were funded in part with grants from Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust, Community Futures, and the
Summerland Kiwanis Club.
The train's last journey for the year, 20 Dec 2008, was nearly cancelled thanks to a major power outage in Summerland,
which forced the cancellation of the 19 Dec 2008 evening runs.
Cold temperatures causing generators to seize up prevented the second run on 20 Dec 2008 and extreme windchill and
snowfall warnings halted both runs scheduled for 21 Dec 2008.
"Passenger safety and comfort were key in our decision to cancel five of the six Christmas Express runs. There were a lot of
disappointed people but they were very understanding," explained Reynolds.
"The weather certainly played havoc with our final weekend of operation."
The popularity of the KVSR during the 2008 season is unprecedented - in spite of high gas prices and economic turmoil during the year.
"For the most part we sold out all our special events including the Easter Train, eleven Great Train Robbery and BBQ Events, and
the Christmas Express," said Reynolds. "People are learning that they can't wait too long to make a reservation or they lose
out"
The KVSR looks forward to another exciting year in 2009 which includes a dozen Great Train Robbery and BBQ events on the schedule.
"The Garnett Valley Gang is very popular with our guests and we are thankful for the partnership with this dedicated volunteer
group who not only thrill passengers on the Kettle Valley Steam Railway but donate to charities throughout the South Okanagan,"
said Reynolds.
|
