Shovels dug into the ground right as a CSX train chugged by during a groundbreaking ceremony June 21, at the site of a future train-viewing platform. The project is a joint venture between the city and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce.
“Our purpose of course is to go back to the history of Plant City,” City Commissioner Mike Sparkman said. “We’re very excited about it. It’s a great opportunity.”
The platform will be situated on the south side of the depot in a largely unused parking lot. It will feature a tower that sits about 14 feet above the track.
About 25 trains come through town each day. Many of them are CSX trains.
Projector coordinators secured a $25,000 grant from CSX for the construction, and the Plant City Lions Club has donation $5,000. The total cost is estimated at $200,000. Bob O’Malley, vice president of CSX for Florida, was present at the ceremony.
Also present was Robert Willaford, a local train enthusiast. Willaford holds Easter and Christmas parties for youth at his refurbished engine and caboose in his yard off Joe McIntosh Road.
Willaford will move some of his train memorabilia to the depot, which will be renamed in his honor.
“This will serve as an educational area,” Sparkman said. “It will become a place students can come on field trips, people can come and take pictures.”
In addition to education, the platform committee, city and chamber hope the project will bring more visitors to the area.
“We have a vision today to make this a great tourist draw,” City Manager Greg Horwedel said.
The platform is scheduled to be finished by Christmas. The platform committee still is accepting donations for the construction. To make a donation, call the chamber, (813) 754-3707.
