Kamloops Heritage Railway Society provides operations update

KAMLOOPS — The Kamloops Heritage Railway Society presented to council highlighting requirements, strategies and plans to resume service in future.

In Tuesday’s (Nov. 21) council meeting, the society showcased the steps necessary in order to continue operating, following their closing due to zoning issues with the city of Kamloops on May 10, 2023.

This organization strives to maintain railway history by providing a variety of experiences with the use of a legendary 2141 locomotive and exhibiting various pieces of vintage equipment and rolling stock at Heritage Park.

The Kamloops Heritage Railway is currently zoned T1 (Railway), which prohibits the use of a train station lending itself to the allowance of a museum type atmosphere or public gathering.

The society has announced plans for zoning and renovation needs, strategic business planning, community involvement and programming.

Regarding zoning and renovations, the society received an architect preliminary report with recommendations such as paths from parking lots to the facility, modifiers to doorways and stairs for accessibility, additions of fire exits and additional emergency lighting around the building.

The society also mentioned that it plans to dispatch a rezoning application for the park in the near future allowing them to operate, following renovations to their facilities and detailing their uses.

Since their closing, the society has been able to engage with the community by participating in numerous community events and hosting workshops through district offices.

More information can be found in The Kamloops Heritage Railway’s website.