Update on C&S coach 70's possible restoration

Clear Creek Courant article

On December 8th, 2020, C&S coach 70 left Idaho Springs for the first time in nearly 80 years and traveled via truck trailer to the shop where C&S business car 911, coach 76, and RPO 13 rest.  No. 70 had been on display behind engine 60 since 1941, but was moved to the shops in Silver Plume to assess its potential for restoration.  

In February, last month, news came out about the progress of evaluation of C&S coach 70.  

Her seats have all been moved out and the outside portion of one side has been removed.  While the frame is intact, the Clear Creek Courant in their article "A Labor of Love" reported that "The beams and part of the roof have rotted, the wooden trusses are bad, and much of the siding and sub-siding will have to be replaced."  According to Historical Rail Adventures' project manager Mike Horner, roughly 1/4 of the car will need to be replaced.  The work could take several years to complete.  Much depends on the goal.  It could be receive a mainly cosmetic restoration or it could be restored to operating status, as there has been some openness by Historic Rail Adventures to have the car visit the Georgetown Loop.

2018 photo-author's collection

Right now Idaho Springs has allotted $200,000 towards the work.  Of course more money will be needed for either restoration option and other funding sources are being considered, including the pursuit of a History Colorado grant.  The Courant article explained that, according to assistant city administrator Jonathan Cain, after evaluations are done and the funding is determined, "Idaho Springs will put out a Request for Proposal from companies that could do the restoration work."

2018 photo-author's collection

On a side note, Cain also said Idaho Springs hopes to do restoration work on 2-8-0 No. 60 and possibly build a roof over the entire train.

Excitement about restoration is easy, but when concrete steps are taken, such as the actual move of coach 70 and serious evaluation work, it signals hope that real results are finally in the works.

For more details visit The Clear Creek Courant article here.

2018 photo-author's collection