By Railfan & Railroad Staff

CUMBERLAND, Maryland — The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s Board of Directors announced Wednesday that it had selected an interim director while its current leader takes a 60-day leave “to address health and family concerns.”

Wesley Heinz was appointed to replace John Garner on June 9. Heinz is no stranger to railway preservation or the WMSR’s high-profile restoration of Chesapeake & Ohio 2-6-6-2 1309. Heinz is presently the executive director of the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum in Portland, Maine. In a press release announcing the appointment, officials noted that Heinz had extensive experience in fundraising and marketing. Besides leading the 2-foot gauge museum in Maine, he also helped extensively with the restoration of C&O 1309 and was assisting with WMSR’s track issues. 

“We are happy to welcome Wesley to the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad and look forward to his visionary project management style and his expertise with steam,” said Mike McKay, WMSR board president and Delegate for District 1C in Allegany and Washington Counties.

WMSR held a “soft opening” last month and it expects to have steam-powered excursions later this summer.