Presenter: Walt Dabney

Commission Agenda Item No. 2
Briefing
Current Status of the Texas State Railroad
January 2006

I. Executive Summary: Members of a delegation from Palestine, Texas, led by Mayor of Palestine, Dr. Carolyn Salter, will discuss the current status of the Texas State Railroad and provide thoughts on creating a long-term viable plan for the Texas State Railroad.

II. Discussion: At the Texas State Railroad State Park, antique diesel locomotives run between Rusk and Palestine in east Texas. The Texas State Railroad is known as one of the nation's largest and most unique steam train operations. In December 2005, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TWPD) announced operational changes at the Texas State Railroad as part of an overall effort to reduce costs in State Parks. A delegation from Palestine will be presenting information to the Commission regarding the status and long-term planning for the Texas State Railroad.