(Submitted photo/Ashlyn Weninger)

By Angie Rolheiser

Wheelchair accessibility

Wheatland Express Excursion Train at Cudworth brings in new railcar

Feb 7, 2021 | 10:00 AM

The Wheatland Express Excursion Train at Cudworth added to its fleet of railcars on Thursday.

The historic car was hauled in from Stettler, Alta., and will be refurbished in the maintenance shop at Cudworth.

According to Director of Operations Ashlyn Weninger, they will be able to offer wheelchair-accessible excursions when all the work is done on the car.

“There will be a permanent lift, as well, so it will be able to be quite an inclusive experience which we are really looking forward to,” Wenninger said.

The excursions that run between the towns of Cudworth and Wakaw have been on hold through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the staff has been working with Tourism Saskatchewan to prepare for the safe return of events.

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“We want to develop new experiences and itinerary and be prepared for when things do turn around that we can have a place for people to go and explore,” Weninger said. “We think with these new additions and elements, it will be a fun day when people can stay in the area and stay overnight in our sleeper car.”

The newest car was hauled by two large semi-trucks and hauled throughout the week. Upon arrival on Thursday, two cranes lifted the wheelsets onto the tracks and then lifted the car itself onto the wheels.

(Submitted photo/Ashlyn Weninger)

(Submitted photo/Ashlyn Weninger)

“It was quite amazing to see the coordination and effort that went into it,” Weninger said.

A light season is planned for this year to begin in June but will be pushed back if necessary.

“The cars that we have received over the past few months will allow us to operate over the winter months as well now so if summer doesn’t happen we hope we can offer something in the fall or winter,” Weninger said.

A western town front is being developed along the rail near the Wakaw Heritage Museum as well to create an authentic railway experience.

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angie.rolheiser@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser