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Railroad Book Author Opposes Peck Park Train Viewing Plan
A relatively new Galesburg resident and author of a number of books profiling different aspects of the railroad says the Galesburg City Council could find better uses for its money than build a viewing tower for railroad enthusiasts.

Robert Del Grosso spoke during the Galesburg City Council's goal-setting session Monday night about the city's plan to improve Peck Park, in part, by building a train viewing tower that, combining possible state and local funds, could cost a million dollars. He called such spending, "frivolous," and , "a waste."

Del Grosso tells WGIL while some people might go to Peck Park to view trains, that's not where most of them go. "People coming to Galesburg to watch trains go to the (Burlington Northern Santa Fe) railroad yard or certain places within the city to watch trains as they like to see them," Del Grosso said. "The bridge on the south side of the railroad yard is the big draw. It's known throughout the country as the place to watch trains."

Del Grosso says that's because not only can they see trains, they can also see other train equipment. He says there are plenty of places in town to see trains, so viewers aren't usually led to stay in one spot.

Del Grosso's latest book, featuring some of the classic Burlington Northern Santa Fe train cars, is expected to be ready by Christmas.
08 12 08 by Newsroom
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