We've covered a lot of ground in these discussions and I'm glad to see it has been taking positive tack.
Alex, regarding your concerns:
To be specific, museum managed trails at TOM are certainly not stated explicitly within the core mission of the museum. This is one of the reasons they haven't been constructed yet. Generally speaking, we've been too busy with projects that directly support our mission to invest significant resources at this time to the development of things like a trail system at TOM.
However, brainstorming on subjects like activities at TOM is most healthy and welcome, and leads us to explore a multitude of possibilities.
Let's take a look at our mission statement. For the purposes of our conversation, I have removed the clause concerning a museum. We're left with "Restore the operation of narrow gauge railroads and equipment which operated in the Sheepscot Valley and on other roads for enlightenment and education of the general public concerning the social and economic impact of railroads on the communities served." Simply rebuilding the railroad does only fulfills our mission in the narrowest sense. For the railroad to be truly "restored" not only in form but also in function it must provide meaningful transport between places. This is why Alna Center is so important today, and why Top of Mountain, and our eventual station stop at Route 218 will be so important. While it may seem counterintuitive, the destinations are of critical importance to our mission of restoring the Sheepscot Valley Narrow gauge to service. Having destinations gives the railroad purpose. Our goal is to "enlighten and educate" people by conveying people to those destinations by a a very special means- the WW&F. The more interesting destinations we provide (including special events, places, etc.) the more people we will reach, and the better we will accomplish our mission.
To be clear, one could posit that providing picnic tables, public restrooms, or constructing the sawmill and shingle mill are not directly related to our core mission. Yet these ancillary elements often prove to be key elements in attracting, and maintaining a public following. As such, our board makes decisions regarding which ancillary activities will best support the achievement of our mission.
Regarding the impact of all of this on accomplishing our other planned work, don't worry! As Fred pointed out, we all talk about things that will happen in the future. It's one of the things that keeps us motivated and growing in a positive direction. All of the ideas keep us excited about the possibilities the railway can lead to!
Take care,
Stephen