Cheyenne City Council Approves $987,050 for Railcar Restoration and Transportation

Strategic Insights -

Cheyenne City Engineer Thomas Cobb presented two bids for the exterior restoration and transportation of three railcars to 15th Street. The Finance Committee voted to accept a $987,050 bid, supported by an Economic Development Administration grant, the 2021 Special Purpose Option Tax, and the city's general fund reserves. The project aims to restore the railcars, treat them for asbestos, and lay a faux track on 15th Street. Despite concerns about the project's feasibility and historical significance, council members Brian Bau and Councilman Ken Esquibel expressed support for the plan, viewing it as a down payment for the 15th Street revitalization project.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Finance Committee voted to accept a $987,050 bid for the exterior restoration and transportation of three railcars to 15th Street.
  • The bid is supported by an Economic Development Administration grant of approximately $479,880, $110,674.80 from the 2021 Special Purpose Option Tax, and $46,476 from the city's general fund reserves.
  • The project aims to restore the railcars, treat them for asbestos, and lay a faux track on 15th Street, to be completed by June 30, 2026.
  • Councilwoman Michelle Aldrich voiced opposition to the plan, citing concerns about its feasibility and historical significance.
  • Roger Barnes, chief marshal for the Cheyenne Gunslingers, described the project as "putting lipstick on a pig" and questioned its relevance to Cheyenne.
  • Cheyenne resident Ed Melko criticized the plan, suggesting the council should prioritize road safety and infrastructure over the railcar project.
  • The motion passed with Councilman Mark Moody being the only "no" vote; the committee's recommendation will go before the full council at Monday's meeting.

Statistics:

  • The total bid amount for the railcar restoration and transportation is $987,050.
  • The Economic Development Administration grant provides approximately $479,880 for the project.
  • The 2021 Special Purpose Option Tax contributes $110,674.80 to the project.
  • The city's general fund reserves provide $46,476 for the project.
  • The project's estimated completion date is June 30, 2026.
  • The faux track on 15th Street is expected to cost approximately $70,000.

Sources:

  • Alyssa Tolman, CHEYENNE, Wyoming Tribune-Eagle (Cheyenne, Wyo.), 2025.