Why It's Time for the W&PSRR Once Again

Many cities are embracing their streetcar pasts with 21st-century technology.  Warrensburg also can adopt 21st–century transportation technology and make the new Dummy the city’s lead into the future. Eight ways the new W&PSRR will benefit the community and how to do it:

 

           The new, battery-powered Dummy will be like no other transit line in the U.S. Though small, it will not be a “demonstration” project. It will provide a key—and instantly popular—transportation connection between central Warrensburg, the UCM campus and Pertle Springs.

 

           The new line will be an iconic Warrensburg symbol, establishing the city as progressive and a leader in green technology. Media attention and tourism follow.

 

           Passengers will ride on a quiet one– or two–car train pulled by a zero–emission, battery-powered engine. New cars resembling the early 1900's originals will be built of recycled plastics on light, aluminum frames. Salvaged rails will sit on cross-ties made of recycled plastic.

 

           By using local and regional resources, construction costs can be greatly reduced, while offering hands-on educational opportunities. Local students can fabricate much of the line’s rolling stock. Local manufacturers could donate parts/services in exchange for advertising. Gomaco Corp. in Iowa sells trolley wheels and engines. Abandoned rail is available for salvage.

 

           All but a single section of original right of way is on city or university property. The ROW remains free of structures and crosses UCM parking on the campus.

 

            The new line would have six stops—one each near the original station downtown and at Pertle Springs, which also would be the location of the maintenance shop.

 

            Ownership will be held by the not–for–profit Warrensburg and Pertle Springs Railroad. The W&PSRR will provide project coordination and oversight. The not–for–profit corporation will seek federal, state, and private grants to finance.

 

           Additional financing for the line’s construction and operation could come from bonds backed by a new UCM student activity fee.