We are so incredibly excited to announce that we were able to MATCH THE GRANT

 Last November when KC Philanthropist, Frank Thompson, challenged us to raise $125,000 it seemed nearly impossible. An entire committee was formed of volunteers with different skills all working towards the same goal. 

In just 6 month's time we were able to achieve the unimaginable - we raised OVER the amount and Frank, true to his word, matched every dollar.

BUT while we know we worked hard for this, this would not have been possible if it hadn't been for every single patron sharing our posts, liking our stories, giving generously & volunteering when & where they could. 

THIS wasn't accomplished by our little train, this was accomplished because of our amazing community. And we're so humbled at the opportunity to THANK YOU! 

We're just really excited that we were able to accomplish this HUGE step in the process.

With any project there are always the unforseen costs that come up. For us, some of those costs (inflation) are typically expected and built into contingencies. Other costs, like new ADA compliance regulations, were not expected. We had been the forgotten, quiet middle child - chugging along not making much commotion but once word got out about our expansion, well, suddenly we were much more visible. And with visibility comes modernization. 

While it was unexpected, it isn't a bad thing. To the contrary, we're excited that we'll be able to make the train (built originally in the 1940s) upgraded to the standards of today making it more accessible for ALL of our community. It may be a cost we hadn't anticipated but we're looking forward to safer parking, smoother paths, accessible train cars, the new ADA bathrooms finally being open and making sure everyone feels not just welcome but included. 

Additionally, we're excited to offer sponsorship opportunities for things like our new picnic grove, playground and other infrastructure. Possible items include memorial name plaques, having logos on the trains or business banners. If you have ideas feel free to share them with us. 

If you didn't have a chance to give during our challenge grant, that doesn't mean your gift isn't still needed and appreciated. Quite the opposite, now that we don't have all the publicity giving will undoubtedly decline. Regardless, we're so close to opening and with just a few more things to check off the list we hope to have the new expansion open by the end of the year! It won't be pretty and polished but it will still be one of the most exciting times in our 30+ yr history and we're not waiting for perfection to celebrate! 

Stay tuned for more info about the ribbon cutting & grand opening of the new track once we've finished up FEMA certification, City approval & a few final construction items to be completed.