HAMBURG – The Reading Railroad Heritage Museum in Hamburg was awarded $100,000 in state funding to support outdoor upgrades at the Museum, according to Senators David G. Argall (R-Berks/Schuylkill) and Patrick Browne (R-Lehigh) and Representative Jerry Knowles (R-Berks, Carbon & Schuylkill).
“Since the first laying of track in 1827, the railroad has inexorably shaped the destiny of our Commonwealth with its unequaled ability to move both goods and people,” Senate Appropriations Chairman Pat Browne said. “The story of Pennsylvania’s rise to economic and industrial prowess cannot be told without the critical element of rail. The Reading Railroad Heritage Museum plays an integral role in curating and preserving this history, helping future generations to appreciate and understand our collective past. I am proud to assist in their mission by working with all of you to secure these funds for needed renovations at this museum.”
These funds will be used to purchase ties and switch timbers to construct 4 tracks into the recently erected Reading Railroad Heritage Museum’s Railcar Protection Building. This building will allow for further interpretation of cars on display and the railyard signage and tour route will be improved. Also, restrooms will be expanded for the thousands of people each year who attend the museum’s events, tours, and educational events. Finally, the Museum will purchase materials for the construction of a small building resembling the Reading Railroad’s Race Street switch tower to display and interpret artifacts already owned by the Museum from that building.
“I’m thankful these highly competitive funds were awarded to the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum,” said Argall. “The Reading Railroad has defined the history of our region. I have supported improvements to this important piece of our history since the museum’s earliest days in Hamburg to ensure that future generations have the chance to learn about the industry that helped to build our communities.”
“I am happy to see this important organization be awarded these funds. The grant dollars will help ensure that the rich history of the Reading Railroad continues to be recognized and shared with future generations,” stated State Representative Jerry Knowles.
Contact: Jim Brugger
717.787.2637