Public Notice: Removal of the Train on Station Road

The T.K. Kelloway Train Station and train have long stood as a part of Bonavista’s heritage and have played a role in our community’s history. Over the years, the Town Council has made considerable efforts to maintain both the building and the train, recognizing their value to the community.

However, after many years of discussion and careful consideration, Council has made the difficult decision to remove the train. This decision was not made lightly. It reflects the need to prioritize essential public services and infrastructure over the significant and ongoing costs associated with restoring and maintaining the train.

Former Town Manager and Councillor, Calvin Rolls, was among the first to lead preservation efforts, often painting and patching the train to give it renewed life. We gratefully remember his dedication, along with that of others in the community who tried to preserve the site. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the train has continued to deteriorate like so many other trains across Newfoundland. Years of weather, sitting next to a corrosive saltwater harbour and vandalism have left the train in a condition beyond what a fresh coat of paint or basic repairs can fix.

At a regular meeting in May, Council reviewed the public funding priorities, liabilities, and long-term costs associated with the train site. The estimated cost to fully restore the train and site would exceed $1 million. Even temporary fencing and security, should the town wish to delay for restoration, would cost upwards of $50,000. Securing the site long-term would also pose challenges related to public safety, vandalism, and legal risk.

Council has determined that taxpayer dollars are better invested in critical local priorities such as a new water treatment plant, road paving, water tower removal, sidewalk expansion, ongoing development of the cruise ship industry, O’Dea’s Pond Boardwalk upgrades and other recreation additions.

Following the May meeting, when the motion for removal was passed, Town Management began exploring several options for the train’s removal. These options include selling, scrapping, or donating the train. A final decision on the method of removal has not yet been made.

What does this mean for the train station site and the surrounding property? Once the train is removed, the Town plans to enhance the area by creating a public park. Proposed features include commemorative panels and a potential mural to honour Bonavista’s railway history. The train station building will remain, and its future use will be considered in upcoming Council discussions.

Council appreciates the public’s understanding as we balance our respect for the past with the needs of the present and future. We remain committed to preserving our history in thoughtful and sustainable ways.