Future Plans for Thomas Viaduct Include Cleaning, Repairs, New Features

If John Slater and the Friends of Patapsco Valley and Heritage Greenway (FPVHG) are successful, the Thomas Viaduct will receive $2.8 million in repairs and enhancements.

The nonprofit group dedicated to protecting the Patapsco River Valley would like the historic stone railroad bridge’s owner (CSX) and the custodian of the it traverses (Maryland Department of Natural Resources) to support several initiatives that would improve the structure’s integrity and increase public accessibility, according to Slater, a Columbia landscape architect who volunteers as FPVHG’s vice president.

“We proposed two projects," said Slater:

• $1.7 million for cleaning and refurbishing the railroad bridge
• $1.1 million to create an overlook area, train platform, waiting shelter, security fencing and signage

These improvements will require cooperation between CSX and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), but DNR has been slow to warm to the proposals, according to Slater.

“We called a meeting on Nov. 17 hoping to iron out some issues,” said Slater.

At the meeting, both parties stated their reservations and worked beyond them.

"There is still an internal environmental review process needed within DNR, but we are very receptive and supportive of the concept," said Ranger Steve McCoy, assistant park manager for Patapsco Valley State Park.

According to Slater, DNR was concerned there would be extra steps with the railroad involved.

“DNR wanted to make sure that CSX was not requiring a formal review of the plans. CSX said that it wasn’t, and then DNR said they would send plans to CSX as a courtesy,” said Slater. “Looks like we are moving forward once again.”

CSX also set some boundaries.

“The biggest sticking point seemed to be the proposed viewing area," said Slater. "CSX stated that they had no problem with a viewing area next to their tracks as long as security fencing was installed.”

At the same meeting, CSX rejected power-washing on the grounds that it might affect the structural integrity of the bridge.

FPVHG is calling for cleaning 175 years’ worth of grime off the bridge by whatever means CSX deems practical.

“Even without power-washing, the bridge’s aesthetics would be improved if we could clean the mortar and restore and replace the original iron railings,” said Slater.

Cost was a factor for CSX, said its representative.

“Operating a railroad is very capital-intensive, and we have to spend our resources on maintaining structural integrity and safety," said Sharon Daboin, resident vice president of state government and community affairs for CSX. "But if the community wants to raise funds to improve the aesthetics of the viaduct, we’re all for it."

To help pay for the work, FPVHG is asking donations and grants.

"We need public support if we are going to raise $2.8 million," said Slater. "It’s a monumental effort.”

DNR is supportive of the concept but also cannot completely fund the project.

“Unfortunately, the Maryland Park Service does not have all the resources needed to accomplish this alone, but through the ongoing partnership with FPVHG and with continued support from CSX, we hope we can move forward,” said McCoy.

"Patapsco Valley State Park is very appreciative of all the hard work and dedication the Friends have put into restoring and better interpreting the Thomas Viaduct. The viaduct is truly an icon in our park and its rich history deserves greater attention,” said McCoy.

In an effort to help with fundraising, Matthew Fenton, a civil engineer and painter who serves as history and heritage chair of American Society of Civil Engineers–Maryland  Section, led a successful effort to have Thomas Viaduct officially recognized in November as a .

“The thought was that more money would be appropriated to save this railroad bridge if it was recognized as a bona fide celebrity,” said Fenton.

People interested in donating time or money toward restoring Thomas Viaduct may contact Betsy McMillion, executive director of FPVHG.