iN VIDEO: Kamloops steam train rolls outside for first time in years

Kamloops’s only steam locomotive was rolled outside of its shop at the heritage railway station this week for the first time in almost six years for testing and maintenance work.

A massive effort to restore the iconic train and return it to the tracks has been underway since late last year.

“We’ve been extremely busy, the amount of blood, sweat and tears poured into this train getting back on the track is overwhelming,” said leader of railway development at Kamloops Heritage Railway, Jordan Popadynetz.

The restored locomotive #2141 first made its inaugural trip on the Spirit of Kamloops Tour in 2002, but was parked in 2020 in the midst of the COVID pandemic. Thanks to Popadynetz and his team of volunteers, the steam train will be back on its tracks soon.

The Kamloops Heritage Railway members include a back shop steam team who take care of the maintenance of the locomotive and cars, and a board of directors that does paperwork, works with stakeholders and organizes operations.

The steam team has been working to ensure the locomotive reaches all safety standards and the boiler is sound and suitable for operations. The results of an in-depth safety inspection and test of the boiler came back recently.

“She has a good bill of health, but there are few little things left. We want to ensure she’s safe for the next 15 years of operations,” Popadynetz said.

This week, for the first time in six years, the steam team moved the engine out of the shop as part of ongoing maintenance and testing.

The locomotive is back in the shop for a few more months of work before passengers will be welcomed aboard.

Popadynetz is the only paid employee at the Kamloops Heritage Railway, which is a non-profit charity.

“Everyone else is taking time from their daily lives, jobs and families to get Kamloops’ train back on track,” he said. “I want to add a huge thank you to our volunteers.”

Over the past year, the society has received roughly $12,000 in cash donations, and more than $150,000 of in-kind support including labour, and donated parts and supplies, however more funding is needed to reactivate the locomotive and the entire train.

“The whole team is overwhelmed at the show of support from our community,” Popadynetz said. “In today’s world of uncertainty, it’s powerful and heartwarming to see our community certain about one thing and that is getting this train going again.”

Go here to learn about the history of the Kamloops steam train.

Go here for updates on the train, to make a donation or to volunteer.