Associated Press Published

W.Va. Scenic Railroad Transfer Expected to Go Smoothly

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Officials say the transfer of operations for Pocahontas County’s historic Cass Scenic Railroad to the State Rail Authority is expected to go seamlessly.

The West Virginia’s Division of Natural Resources announced in October that it would transfer responsibility for Cass’ rail operations to the authority, which is the central state agency for railroad matters. The transfer is set to go into effect Jan. 1.

The Charleston Gazette reports that the Cass Scenic Railroad has had operating losses of about $1.5 million a year.

Visitors will see no changes in rail excursions next year but fares will likely increase moderately. Adult fares ranged from $19 to $33 in 2014.

The Division of Natural Resources will continue to operate Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. The park has 100,000 annual visitors.