There are many active restoration projects underway at the Ohio Railway Museum, and this year is no exception! Our crew is working on a range of cars and equipment, as well as many of the historic structures acquired with our lease from Norfolk Southern, as we preserve and improve the collection. Below, you will find a list of current projects and updates on the progress being made.
Our bridge is probably our most recognized asset. Crossing over Highway 161 in central Ohio, thousands of drivers pass under it every day. Most probably never give it a second thought, but at the ORM we certainly do. It is our highest-priority project right now, and while the work does temporarily shorten our train ride experience, this kind of maintenance is a normal part of any working railroad's routine. What makes this project special is how far beyond basic upkeep we're going. Our crew will be replacing bridge ties and applying fresh paint, while also planning to illuminate the bridge and restore the walkway, complete with a proper walking deck and new handrails. That means a return to its classic look with modern safety standards in place for our crews and special tour groups. It's a meaningful upgrade that will make the bridge better than ever once trains roll across it again.
Did you know you can support this project by sponsoring a bridge tie? Your name will be placed on a tie as a lasting part of this restoration, and every contribution helps us get trains back across the bridge sooner. Visit our Bridge Tie Fundraiser to learn more and get involved! (July, 2026)
No. 64 is currently out of service while the overhead is being rebuilt, giving our team a valuable opportunity to take on much-needed restoration work on this important car. As a mainstay of operations at the ORM for many years, the timing is just right to complete a great deal of long-overdue work! Right now, the crew is rebuilding the lower windows, repairing trim, refreshing the interior with new paint and stain, rewiring components, and reconditioning the floors.
In the next phase, work will move to the roof and upper windows, restoration of the catwalk, painting the seat frames, and servicing the poles and mounts. Even the brass screw heads are being polished! This project will continue over the coming year and help prepare No. 64 for a return to service, hopefully during the 2027 season. (May, 2026)
No. 5060, our former Canadian National "Flyer" style suburban coach, is currently undergoing a major transformation into a new table car for guests to enjoy.
The floor has recently been rebuilt, and work is now focused on the roof, ceiling, and walls. After that, the team will begin building the new bar area. Later phases will include installing carpeting and custom seating to complete the car. Visitors can also see elements of the plan in the 3D printed model shown below.
No. 5060 is also operating this season, giving guests a firsthand look at the work involved in transforming the car. We invite you to visit, ride No. 5060, and follow its progress as this exciting project moves ahead! (May, 2026)
The recently donated No. 17432, an ex-CCC&STL "Big 4" wooden caboose currently wearing its New York Central markings, is now being prepared for its move to the Ohio Railway Museum. A basic survey has already been completed, and our crew will next remove the cupola and stabilize the caboose for travel. This is an exciting first step in bringing this historic car to ORM and beginning its return to service!
Once the caboose arrives at the museum, we will begin a full survey to guide the restoration process. Although there is wood damage to address, the rest of the caboose is remarkably complete, giving our team a strong foundation for the work ahead. Our goal is to carry out a full operational restoration and return No. 17432 to service so guests can ride in this classic wooden caboose. (May, 2026)
