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Community group asks council for help saving old train station owned by TxDOT
Summary
Todd Elrod told council the community wants to preserve a deteriorating Santa Fe–era train station that TxDOT plans to remove for track work; Elrod said the group needs asbestos/lead testing and a relocation site before moving forward.
Todd Elrod described a community-led effort to save the old train station near Del Rio, saying the structure — believed to date to the 1940s — is owned by TxDOT and faces demolition if the rail line is reconfigured. "TxDOT owns the building, I believe," Elrod said, adding that the group has discussed the possibility of obtaining the structure for a nominal fee but cannot proceed until environmental tests are completed and a site is identified.
Elrod said the group has done basic structural checks, discussed fundraising and forming a 501(c)(3), and reached out to the Texas Historical Commission. Council members suggested the group pursue asbestos and lead testing and look for city-owned property that could host the building if relocation is feasible. No formal city commitment was made at the meeting; next steps include obtaining test results and confirming whether TxDOT or Texas Pacifico will allow transfer or relocation.
