Atwood Foundation Makes Major Investment in Historic Locomotive Renovation
The Alaska Community Foundation and Engine 557 Restoration Company proudly announce the award of a $50,000 grant from the Atwood Foundation to support the restoration to operation of former Alaska Railroad steam locomotive #557.
The Alaska Railroad has been an integral part of the fabric of Anchorage for nearly 100 years. ACF is proud to sponsor the Engine 557 restoration project to celebrate that legacy. Engine 557’s operation will be a special experience for Alaskans and a featured activity for visitors during their Alaskan ‘trip of a lifetime’.
Candace Winkler, ACF President and CEO
I am deeply appreciative of the Atwood Foundation’s confidence in our team’s commitment to Engine 557. The Foundation’s generous contribution brings Anchorage, Wasilla, Palmer, Turnagain Arm, and other communities along the Alaska Railroad several steps closer to experiencing the sights and sounds of an Alaska Railroad steam locomotive returned to life.
Engine 557 Restoration Company President and Restoration Project Manager Pat Durand
The Engine 557 Restoration Company was established in 2012 and is at the halfway point of a four year-long major overhaul and restoration of Engine 557 for special passenger excursions – the most complex historic rail equipment preservation project ever undertaken in Alaska. Although fund raising has been in progress for two years, donations continue to be solicited to fund the $1,000,000 dollar restoration. Monetary donations are being supplemented by thousands of hours of volunteer labor and generous in-kind donations from dozens of businesses and individuals throughout Anchorage and the Mat-Su area.
Special thanks go to Rasmuson Foundation for generously matching this, and other donations to make the operation of Engine 557 a reality.
For more information visit https://www.alaskarails.org.