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Rail platform construction to begin Nov. 19; council hears estimate of nearly 9,000 annual visitors
Summary
A statement read for the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad says a 320-foot passenger platform will be installed starting Nov. 19, reducing traffic impacts and enabling Travel Oregon grant-funded ADA lifts that will make trips to Wheeler fully accessible.
Council members read a statement from Trevor Park, general manager of the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad (OCSR), describing a busy season in Wheeler and immediate work to improve passenger loading.
OCSR reported nearly 9,000 visitors came into Wheeler this year. The railroad will install a passenger platform beginning Nov. 19 that will run roughly 320 feet north of Rector Street; the platform is expected to reduce roadway blocking during loading and unloading and will share space with the Salmonberry Trail alignment. Travel Oregon awarded an Accessibility Grant in 2025 to fund a mobile wheelchair lift and a small storage shed; a matching lift will be installed in Rockaway Beach, and together the lifts will allow OCSR trips into Wheeler to be ADA accessible.
Councilors discussed coordinating schedules with local businesses so merchants can anticipate passenger volumes; staff and volunteer groups will look into creating printed schedules or an information hub so downtown businesses can better plan for train arrivals. The council noted the railroad is federally recognized and classified as an exempt railroad for certain local permit processes related to rail maintenance or upgrades.
Council took no formal vote; the item was informational to make the council and businesses aware of near-term construction on the platform and its potential benefits for local commerce and trail connectivity.
