Model railroad enthusiasts want to share their trains

Rossmoorenews (Walnut Creek California): Model railroad enthusiasts want to share their trains

This article is from December 29, 2010.
By Cathy Tallyn Staff writer
Ralf Parton looks at the vacated office of Channel 28 and sees possibilities. The president of the Railroad Club, he envisions model trains and the happy faces of Rossmoor residents' grandchildren.

The club already has a model railroad layout in the small office behind what was the television station quarters on the second floor of Dollar Clubhouse. Since the station left for new quarters at Creekside, the club has been given that space and will also keep the room that houses the club's train layout. By having more space, the current three-tired layout can be expanded.

It's just in the planning stages, but Parton and other Rossmoor railroaders already have ideas. They see two model railroad layouts and a viewing area for visitors. And, more importantly, the club's railroad room can be used during the day.

The problem for the railroaders in the past had been that there was no access to the train room unless no one from Channel 28 was there, Parton said. That meant members could only run the trains on Fridays and at night. There were few visitors and the club wants that changed.

“From the beginning, the Railroad Club's intention was to share their love of trains and railroading with all the residents of Rossmoor and their relatives,” Parton said. “We want to see greater access for the public so we can share (our trains). Everyone likes to watch trains.”

He said that the expansion plans are “just in the dreaming stages.” The club's 70 members will give their input to the committee.

Parton can already envision the smiles of grandchildren and their grandparents.

“There is no more joy for a model builder than to share his miniature world of trains Š with others,” he said.