Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Heritage Tourism topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ely extends agreement with Nevada Northern Railway Foundation; NNRY reports stronger ridership and equipment work ahead
Summary
Council extended the Development Agreement with the Nevada Northern Railway Foundation to Jan. 1, 2027, and heard NNRY President Mark Bassett report increased November ridership, ongoing locomotive repairs, and plans to repair the doodlebug car beginning in January.
The Ely City Council on Dec. 11 approved the eighth amendment to the Development Agreement with the Nevada Northern Railway Foundation, extending the agreement through Jan. 1, 2027. Mayor Nathan Robertson recused himself from this item due to part‑time employment with the Foundation; Councilwoman Melody Van Camp chaired the item during his recusal.
Mark Bassett, president of the Nevada Northern Railway Foundation, gave the Foundation’s monthly operations report. He said the railroad carried 797 passengers in November — a 17% increase from the prior year — and reported year‑to‑date ridership of 12,786. Bassett also detailed locomotive repair work and rolling‑stock status and said staff and volunteers will start repairs on the doodlebug in January with a hope to return it to service by May 1.
Council members moved and approved the amendment extending the Development Agreement to allow continued partnership between the City and the Foundation. The Council’s action also noted that the Foundation is pursuing locomotive and rolling stock repairs that may require additional funding or phased restoration work.
