B&O Railroad Station
A Good Idea
Description
The historic B&O railroad station in Oakland, Maryland was built in 1884 in Queen Anne style. Regular passenger stops were discontinued in 1971 and the building fell into disrepair. In 1998, the city of Oakland and community groups raised funds to purchase the building from CSX Railroad, and Transportation Enhancements (TE) awards were used to restore the station.
Goal / Mission
The goal of the restoration of the B&O Railroad Station was to preserve the historic landmark and revitalize the town of Oakland, Maryland.
Results / Accomplishments
Seasonal train tours now bring 400-600 visitors to Oakland each year, and tourist visits to the city have increased 25% since 2001. The station has helped to revitalize downtown Oakland's business area, which now has more businesses vying for space than is available. The city also built a community park and pavilion outside the station, which is used for summer concerts and a winter tree lighting ceremony.
About this Promising Practice
Organization(s)
City of Oakland, Maryland
Primary Contact
Topics
Economy / Economic Climate
Community / Social Environment
Community / Social Environment
Organization(s)
City of Oakland, Maryland
Source
Rails to Trails Conservancy
Date of publication
Nov 2002
Date of implementation
1998
Location
Oakland, MD
For more details
Additional Audience
communities