ALTOONA, PA (RAILFAN JOURNAL) – Since 2020, the Railroaders Memorial Museum has been committed to the repair of its one–of–a–kind, cable-guided funicular at Horseshoe Curve. This system enables guests and visitors with limited mobility to circumvent the steep stairway at the site and visit one of railroading’s greatest landmarks.
According to officials with the museum, as a part of evaluating Horseshoe Curve in 2020, the funicular was shut down for an inspection by the device’s original manufacturer. Extensive mechanical and electrical issues were discovered. Since then, labor and parts shortages have protracted the repair process, but as of this summer, all repairs have been successfully completed.
Officials say that a thorough approach has been taken with the repairs and analysis of the funicular to ensure compliance, safety, and reliability. Pending the selection of a state-qualified inspection firm, the funicular will be placed back in service in the near future, ideally before the end of 2023. This work has been made possible by a private foundation and through the support of our visitors.
The Railroaders Memorial Museum wishes to thank Norfolk Southern for trackside tree and brush trimming this past summer. Museum officials say that their hard work is greatly appreciated and helps site staff and volunteers manage the vegetation.
Working in conjunction with Norfolk Southern, the Horseshoe Curve will continue to be a one a kind train viewing experience.
The Board of Directors and Railroaders Memorial Museum Management have been dedicated to coming up with creative and sustainable ways to make the organization’s sites more accessible. Accessibility and continued site improvements are all contingent upon admissions, memberships, donations, and private grants. Membership is also encouraged.
Starting Monday, September 18, 2023; the Horseshoe Curve Visitor Center and observation area will be open 7 days a week until further notice (weather permitting and excluding holidays). Any hour changes or closures will be announced via the website and social media.
Additionally, new daily hours will be 9:30AM to 4:30PM to all visitors to view the AM Eastbound Amtrak Pennsylvanian.
The Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark is a privately owned destination in partnership with the Railroaders Memorial Museum and Norfolk Southern Corporation.
The Railroaders Memorial Museum owns the buildings, funicular, stairs, and grounds with leased property adjacent to the observation park. Trespassing without permission before or after site hours is strictly prohibited and will be enforced.
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