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15th Street railcar project faces funding and community questions ahead of Friday work session
Summary
Councilors reviewed progress on asbestos abatement and contracts for the 15th Street railcar project but members and downtown business owners raised questions about cost, parking impacts and whether the EDA grant requirements for moving two cars are achievable given structural condition and funding gaps.
City staff reported asbestos abatement on the 15th Street railcars is complete and a contract with DHM is in place; a focused work session scheduled for Friday will provide detailed plans for the next steps.
Councilmembers said they remain divided on the project. Staff noted an Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant tied to the project was originally for $773,000 (presenter said $618,400 after adjustments with a $154,600 local match) and that the city must satisfy grant commitments to move two rail cars under the grant terms. The depot museum’s contribution and site‑preparation work were discussed; staff reported the depot museum still holds $480,000 earmarked to help move “Old Sadie,” and members said an evaluation was underway to determine whether Old Sadie is structurally stable enough to move.
Council members and downtown business owners raised concerns about parking loss, the proposed relocation of the Gunslingers buildings and whether the city should proceed if the total project cost greatly exceeds available funds. Some council members emphasized the project’s potential to enliven the west end of downtown and connect to Reed Avenue improvements, while others urged caution, saying constituents and business owners have expressed worries about competition with existing downtown businesses and removal of customer parking.
Staff warned the city may need to refund EDA funds if it cannot meet grant deliverables. Council members requested detailed cost and phasing information at the Friday work session so they could assess whether to include the project as a 2025 goal or postpone further decisions. No formal action was taken at the session.
Council members also discussed options for the other rail equipment: whether all cars must move or whether a subset could be restored on site, and how mitigation and site preparation costs would change if some elements were deferred. The council asked staff to present finances, ADA accessibility plans, and options for moving or preserving locomotives at the Friday session.
