The Arvada Western story

What is Proto-Freelanced model railroading?

Proto-Freelanced model railroading refers to the creation of model trains that are not always based on specific real-world railroad or locations. In this hobby, enthusiasts design and build their own fictional or freelanced railroad systems, incorporating unique elements, themes, designs, and history. It allows for creativity and personalization in crafting model railroads without adhering to the specifics of existing prototypes.

Examples of Proto-Freelanced model railroads:

Proto-Freelanced Groups on Facebook:

Is the Arvada Western Railroad real?

Simple answer, No.

The Arvada Western Railroad is not a real railroad. It is based on real life locations in Colorado representing a ‘What If’ scenario if many of the original rail lines were not abandoned or operated by other railroads.

What is a Short Line or Regional railroad?

A short line or regional railroad is a small or regional freight railroad that operates over a relatively short distance compared to larger Class I railroads. These railroads are typically privately owned and serve as a critical link between shippers, industries, and the larger national rail network operated by Class I railroads.

Key Characteristics of Short Line or Regional Railroads:

  1. Distance: They usually operate over short distances.
  2. Purpose: Their primary role is to connect industries, farms, and businesses to larger railroads, facilitating the movement of freight to major hubs.
  3. Operations: They generally handle smaller volumes of freight compared to Class I railroads but provide customized, flexible services.
  4. Class III Railroads: Short lines are typically classified as Class III railroads based on their annual revenue (as defined by the Surface Transportation Board in the U.S.).
  5. Industries Served: They often serve local industries, such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and forestry.

Importance of Short Line or Regional Railroads:

  • First/Last Mile Service: Short lines play a vital role in moving freight between local customers and the national rail network.
  • Economic Impact: They support rural and regional economies by providing cost-effective freight solutions.
  • Intermodal Role: They enhance logistics by working closely with trucking, ports, and Class I railroads.

Examples of Short Line or Regional Railroads:

By filling in gaps and providing tailored solutions, short line and regional railroads are essential to the overall efficiency of the rail freight industry.

Established in 2010

The Arvada Western Railroad was established in 2010 in response to the BNSF Railway scaling back operations on the Golden Subdivision. This shift followed the 2005 merger of Coors Brewing in Golden with Molson, which reduced freight demand. Additionally, coal traffic from Georgetown began to decline as government policies and public opinion increasingly favored renewable energy. At the same time, there was a growing interest in passenger rail service along the corridor. In light of these factors, BNSF sought to divest the line.

The Golden Subdivision was officially sold in 2010, leading to the creation of the Arvada Western Railroad. Sur Rail was selected to operate and maintain the 70-mile main line between Denver and Georgetown, along with a branch line to Black Hawk.

A classification yard was constructed parallel along the main line spanning between Ralston Road and Tennyson Street in Arvada. The yard became known as the Tennyson St Yard. A state of the art diesel maintenance facility was constructed towards the west end of the yard near Ralston road. The diesel maintenance facility became known as the Ralston Maintenence Facility (RMF) and holds the main operations of both the Arvada Western Railroad and Sur Rail Leasing division, because of this, it is not uncommon to spot other railroad’s locomotives at the RMF.