By M.T. Burkhart

ORBISONIA, Pa. – East Broad Top Railroad has released its schedule for the rest of the year, featuring diesel excursions starting June 11 as well as numerous special events.

“While ongoing restoration efforts don’t allow for a more comprehensive schedule quite yet…we are thrilled to offer four weekends throughout June and July of diesel-powered train excursions and tours of the Rockhill Furnace Machine Shop Complex,” the railroad said.

The neighboring Rockhill Trolley Museum will also be offering rides and shop tours.

Work is progressing on numerous fronts on the reincarnated EBT, including trackwork and tie replacement. The bridge over Runk Road, which was damaged when it was struck by a truck last year, was recently replaced. A $100,000 grant from the Allegheny Foundation was received for the rehabilitation of the Colgate Picnic Grove, where EBT trains are turned. It’s hoped the renovations – including a new platform and pavilion – will allow more events in that space like musical performances, food tastings and holiday festivities.

Work is also continuing on narrow gauge Baldwin 2-8-2 Mikado 16, the railroad said. It’s the first locomotive expected to return to steam.

“We certainly want to acknowledge that there is an incredible amount of anticipation for return of steam to EBT,” the railroad said. “At this moment, we are not announcing any timeline for its completion.”

Special events begin May 22-23 with “The EBT Goes to War” with train rides and military encampments. Caboose number 28 can also be reserved for groups of up to eight passengers. Other events later in 2021 include an Antique Traction Show in September, Fall Reunion and Pumpkin Festival in October, and Christmas trains in late November and December. For the complete schedule visit eastbroadtop.com.