The recent announcement by Steamtown in suspending their steam excursions due to high insurance costs may spell the end of many small tourist lines as well as all mainline steam. Even non-steam excursions could be affected as well. This is not the first time I have read about scenic lines or museums being affected by skyrocketing liability insurance costs. It tough enough that general operating and maintenance costs have risen, but this situation could be just the beginning of the end. What do you think?
Hello All,
Although I am far from an expert on the subject of insurance, or more specifically railroad insurance, I can say this.
Steamtown's announcement on this quite frankly was a wake-up call to me, made me realize exactly how bad this problem is. (Incidently, pun intended, Steamtown's 2004 excursion program is back on track)
The first vicim of the higher insurance costs I can recall was the infamous 'Skunk Train'. Although I am not sure what the final outcome was, at one point the entire line was to be abandoned or at least mothballed due to lack of riders and higher costs.
There are of course bright spots on the horizon. Up here in Maine, the Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad (according to their website, the 6th oldest operating line in the country) will be running their swedish built steam locomotive, #1149 (formerly known as the 'Spirit of Unity').
Steam might be getting kicked, but it isn't beaten yet.
cya, Joey
Certified Steam Nut