Well, as of now, the Islander Touring Train has been running for about four weeks. While there's still work to be done both on the train and on publicity (no one knows its running unless they drive by it!), the train looks pretty good.
The train was repainted (keeping the BC Rail Red While and Blue), and the interior was touched up, or shall I say gutted? Almost.
BC-15 has been brightened up with the faux wood walls being painted/wallpapered. The 4 seats that were across from the galley were removed and is now occupied by the glass cabinet that was in the baggage area of BC-30 in WSRR's gift shop. This is the Islander's gift shop. While this is more visible, I believe it may be a little crowded. Other changes were the trash bins in the center of the car were removed.
BC-30 was gutted. Sitting for a year in Wilton didn't help this car as it developed a BAD leak in the roof, saturated the carpet and well, just asked to be remodeled. All the seats were removed as well as the carpet. A new carpet, tables and chairs make this car look a lot different than what anyone would remember. Add wallpaper and you'd have trouble telling where you were.
Overall while I'm still saddened that there's no train in Wilton anymore, I do have to say that the Newport Dinner Train has a nice operation in Newport and that they've done a great job of getting 15 and 30 running again and looking sharp. If you're around Rhode Island, stop by and ride the Islander Touring Train!
Photos from my visit last week:
http://www.nashuacitystation.org/railro ... ry=newport
Matt
Former WSRR conductor
Nashua City Station Railroad History -
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