Due to erosion problems under the south abutment of the Kettle Creek bridge, Port Stanley Terminal Rail has suspended operations.
An underwater inspection of the bridge, built in 1908, was conducted this past December.
PSTR President Dan Vernackt explains the problem is low water levels in Kettle Creek.
Out of an abundance of caution, PSTR cancelled all operations effective Dec. 12, eliminating the last two weekends of it’s popular Santa Treats Train Rides.
Vernackt says plans have been drawn up to begin remedial action.
The cost of repairs could run as high as $500,000, and Vernackt explains they are exploring funding options.
He admits, “This is the greatest engineering hurdle we’ve faced in our 43-year history, but we will get this fixed safely, correctly and as soon as possible.”
The tourist railway attracts about 17,000 passengers each year and total ridership since it began operating in 1983 in estimated in the range of 750,000 individuals.
Vernackt hopes to have the tourist train back in operation in time for the popular Easter Egg Hunt weekend, but cautions, “Due to the uncertainty of the repair schedule, the railway is not accepting any 2026 bookings at this time.”
Written by Ian McCallum
