Rochelle council approves funds for railroad park improvements

Rochelle council approves funds for railroad park improvements

By Trains Staff | June 29, 2022

| Last updated on February 24, 2024


First phase of project will focus on gift-shop improvements

Covered platform with tables and chairs, with railroad tracks visible in background
The covered viewing platform at the Rochelle (Ill.) Railroad Park. Rochelle’s city council has approved a contract for design of improvements at the park. David Lassen

ROCHELLE, Ill. — The Rochelle City Council has approved more than $30,000 for the first part of a three-phase plan to upgrade the Rochelle Railroad Park, the popular facility at the crossing of BSNF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad main lines.

The Rochelle News-Leader reports that at a Monday meeting, the council approved a $30,750 contract with engineering firm Willett, Hofmann & Associates for design of improvements at the railroad park gift shop. Work will include restroom improvements, accessibility upgrades, new doors, new siding, and a ramp and deck from the parking lot.

Overall, about $135,000 in improvements are planned, using American Rescue Plan Act funds. At an earlier meeting, the council discussed other improvements including more lighting, improved locations for live-streaming cameras, an elevated viewing tower, and a heated, enclosed area for winter viewing.

Trains.com offers live streaming from the Rochelle Railroad Park.

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